Originally known as Kampong Som, the small town was renamed Sihanoukville in 1959 in honour of Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihanouk.

It wasn’t until later, in the early 2000s, that foreign investment turned it into the country’s premier resort city.

While Sihanoukville has evolved from a backwater into a city teeming with hotels and casinos, it still reels in travellers looking to explore its lush wetlands, endless shoreline and many islands.

Chill out at the beach

Soak up Sihanoukville’s laid-back vibes on the city’s best beaches – Ochheuteal, Otres and Sokha.

These narrow, tree-lined beaches facing the Gulf of Thailand are blanketed by soft, white sand.

You’ll find a slew of cool restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels at Ochheuteal Beach, but for quieter, less-crowded escapades with equally beautiful waters, head to Sokha’s shores farther up north.

The inviting, relaxed atmosphere along these beaches attracts both tourists and locals alike who enjoy taking a dip in the warm waters, riding jet skis or unwinding with a tipple or two while watching the sunset.

Admire Cambodia’s largest copper statues

Standing on a 6-metre high pedestal at a roundabout near Ream Beach is a statue of Preah Thong and Neang Neak, two symbolic figures in Khmer culture.

The depiction of the ceremonial lifting of the veil between Indian prince Preah Thong and his naga bride – co-founders of the pre-Angkorian state of Funan – signifies the birth of Khmer culture and Cambodia’s rich heritage.

At a whopping 21 metres tall, these sculptures, erected in April 2022, are the largest copper statues in the country.

Cambodian sculptor Sok Chamroeun and his team took a year to complete the piece, which is replete with beautifully detailed, historically accurate clothing and jewellery.

Visit a hilltop temple

Nestled on a hill overlooking the city and its scenic coast, Wat Leu is one of Sihanoukville’s five main temples.

Its exterior, with tiered roofs decorated with gold-hued finials of the naga or mythical serpent, is one of its most visually striking elements.

Inside, the space is adorned with vibrant, colourful paintings of the Buddha’s life, and it’s where you can see locals offering food to the monks.

The area surrounding Wat Leu is also worth a look, with ancient stupas and golden statues of Buddha dotting the grounds.

Enjoy the waterfalls

If you’re looking to relax in a serene, natural setting, make your way to the beautiful cascades of Kbal Chhay, just 16 kilometres from the city centre.

This horizontal, multi-tiered waterfall, with drops of up to 5 metres, is cocooned by dense tropical forests and is one of Cambodia’s most picturesque.

You can cool off in the waist-deep waters, set up a picnic or hammock along the rocky banks or tuck into local delights from nearby stalls, all while enjoying the splendid scenery.

According to airasia.com