Cambodia

Southern Islands + Beaches

Beach, Cambodia
Beach, Cambodia
Beach, Cambodia
Beach, Cambodia

Why visit Cambodia’s Southern Islands + Beaches

Cambodia’s southern coast is made for quiet escapes. Turquoise waters meet soft, white sand, and islands rise from the sea, offering privacy and calm. Days are spent swimming, exploring coral reefs, or walking along secluded beaches framed by lush greenery.

The pace is slow and unhurried. Coastal communities maintain a simple, traditional rhythm, while the natural surroundings feel preserved and untouched. Evenings bring long sunsets, fresh seafood, and quiet moments under open skies, a true contrast to the bustle of city life.

Here, the southern beaches are a place to unwind completely, where calm, natural beauty meets understated luxury at every turn.

Beach, Cambodia

Highlights of Cambodia’s Southern Islands + Beaches

  • Secluded Beaches & Hidden Coves: Long stretches of soft sand and quiet coves, perfect for walks, swimming, and moments of solitude.
  • Turquoise Waters & Coral Reefs: Clear seas ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, or simply admiring vibrant marine life.
  • Island Exploration: Small islands scattered across the Gulf of Thailand offer opportunities for private discovery and nature experiences.
  • Local Coastal Life: Small fishing villages and traditional rhythms provide insight into the communities that call the coast home.
  • Sunsets & Dining Experiences: Evenings bring golden skies, alfresco meals on the sand, and a calm, restorative atmosphere.
  • Peaceful Luxury: A blend of natural beauty and thoughtful, understated comfort that makes every moment feel intentionally curated.
Song Saa

Song Saa means “Sweethearts” in Khmer, but the islands were also uninhabited for decades before being transformed into a private sanctuary.

Krabey Island

Krabey Island has natural freshwater springs that have sustained local communities for generations.

Good to know

Getting to the Southern Islands

How you get to Cambodia’s southern islands depends a bit on where you’re staying. Our two favourites are Song Saa Private Island and Six Senses Krabey Island both offer privacy, stunning beaches, and a real sense of escape. The journey starts in Sihanoukville, with a scenic drive to the jetty, followed by a short boat ride that gives you your first glimpse of turquoise waters and soft sands. It’s the perfect introduction to island life.

Getting to Song Saa Private Island

Travel begins with a domestic flight from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. From there, a scenic 45–60-minute drive along the southern coast brings you to the private jetty. A speedboat then carries you across turquoise waters to the island in around 45 minutes.

Getting to Six Senses Krabey Island

Travel begins with a domestic flight from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. From the airport, a private car transfer of 45–60 minutes follows coastal roads to the departure point. A short 15-minute boat ride then takes you to the island.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Cambodia’s southern islands is during the cool, dry season from November to February, when temperatures are comfortable and the skies are clear. Days are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, strolling along soft sand beaches, or simply relaxing in the shade of palm trees.

The wet season, from May to October, brings short but heavy showers. While some days can be wet, the islands feel quieter and more private, the skies dramatic, and the surrounding waters vibrant, a different, more intimate side of island life.

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