Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
Cambodia's southern port city offers white-sand beaches, ornate hilltop pagodas, and nearby island paradises — all framed by a dramatic transformation from sleepy backpacker town to gleaming casino strip.
Cambodia's southern port city offers white-sand beaches, ornate hilltop pagodas, and nearby island paradises — all framed by a dramatic transformation from sleepy backpacker town to gleaming casino strip.
Cruise ships dock at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, a commercial deep-water facility. Walking to the city is not permitted — a shuttle bus delivers passengers to a central drop-off point near the Independence Monument.
💡 Pro move: Visa arrangements are typically handled by the cruise line onboard ($30–$45 USD). Confirm with your ship before sailing.
All cruise ships use the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port pier; shuttle bus transfer to the city is standard.
| Cruise Line | Typical Berth / Arrival | Dock or Tender |
|---|---|---|
| Most cruise lines | Sihanoukville Autonomous Port📍 | Docked |
| Expedition/small ships | Sihanoukville Autonomous Port📍 | Docked |
From beach days and island escapes to temple hikes and national park boat trips, Sihanoukville rewards those who venture beyond the port.
A 45-minute speedboat ride delivers you to Saracen Bay — pristine white sand, turquoise water, and virtually no development. Snorkel, swim, or simply lie on the beach. The most memorable excursion from Sihanoukville.
Find island day-trip tours →The cleanest and most relaxed of Sihanoukville's beaches, about 20 minutes from the port. Calm waters, beachside bars, and fresh grilled seafood make this a low-effort, high-reward beach day.
Find Otres Beach tours →A hilltop Buddhist temple reached via a steep staircase, offering sweeping views over Sihanoukville, the coastline, and the islands. Ornate shrines, resident monks, and peaceful grounds — cover shoulders and knees.
Find Sihanoukville city tours →About 30–40 minutes from the port, this protected coastal park offers mangrove river cruises, bird watching, and a chance to spot dolphins (Dec–Feb). A genuine nature escape close to the pier.
Find Ream National Park tours →A multi-tiered waterfall set in jungle, about 16 km north of the city. Best during the wet season (July–October) when flow is strong, but a pleasant jungle walk any time of year.
Find waterfall tours →The larger sister island to Koh Rong Samloem, with a lively beach village, bioluminescent plankton at night, and good snorkeling reefs. Speedboats depart regularly from Serendipity Beach pier.
Find Koh Rong tours →The port requires a shuttle to the city; once dropped off, Sihanoukville's beaches and landmarks are best explored by tuk-tuk, but a short city stroll is easy.
From the cruise shuttle drop-off near the Independence Monument, walk to the Golden Lions Roundabout (a popular photo stop), then continue to Phsar Leu Market for local produce, snacks, and Cambodian goods. Easy, flat, and a good taste of daily life.
Tuk-tuk to Serendipity Beach (5–10 min from the city drop-off), then walk the beachfront strip past restaurants, bars, and the pier where island boats depart. Good place to grab a fresh coconut and watch the action.
📍 Open in MapsClimate normals for Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia (2014–2023 averages). Pack for the month you sail — highs, lows, and how many rainy days to expect.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainy Days | Sunrise | Sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 85°F / 29°C | 75°F / 24°C | 11 | 6:28 AM | 6:02 PM |
| Feb | 86°F / 30°C | 75°F / 24°C | 12 | 6:26 AM | 6:13 PM |
| Mar | 88°F / 31°C | 77°F / 25°C | 17 | 6:13 AM | 6:16 PM |
| Apr | 88°F / 31°C | 78°F / 26°C | 22 | 5:55 AM | 6:16 PM |
| May | 87°F / 31°C | 79°F / 26°C | 29 | 5:44 AM | 6:20 PM |
| Jun | 85°F / 29°C | 78°F / 26°C | 28 | 5:44 AM | 6:28 PM |
| Jul | 84°F / 29°C | 77°F / 25°C | 29 | 5:51 AM | 6:32 PM |
| Aug | 83°F / 28°C | 77°F / 25°C | 30 | 5:56 AM | 6:24 PM |
| Sep | 83°F / 28°C | 77°F / 25°C | 29 | 5:55 AM | 6:06 PM |
| Oct | 84°F / 29°C | 76°F / 24°C | 28 | 5:54 AM | 5:48 PM |
| Nov | 86°F / 30°C | 77°F / 25°C | 22 | 6:01 AM | 5:39 PM |
| Dec | 86°F / 30°C | 76°F / 24°C | 13 | 6:15 AM | 5:46 PM |
Source: Open-Meteo ERA5 (10-yr daily averages)
Transport options from the pier — taxis, shuttles, transit passes, and whether ride-share apps work here.
Many cruise lines run shuttles from the pier to a central drop-off point (often Ou Chheuteal Beach area). Convenient and takes about 30 minutes each way.
Book via Grab or PassApp for transparent fixed pricing to city beaches and attractions. Much cheaper and fairer than hailing one at the pier.
No metered taxis — always agree on price before getting in. Port to city center runs roughly $6–$10; private transfers from the port start around $36.
Grab cars offer air-conditioned rides with upfront pricing. Available app-based; recommended over street taxis for price certainty.
City tours designed for cruise passengers cover beaches, temples, and markets with English-speaking guides and port return guarantees. Typically 5–6 hours.
Upcoming cruises that call at Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia. Dates, prices, and ports of call change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking.
Itineraries and prices change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking. Some links are affiliate links that may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.