Sihanoukville shorelineSihanoukville, on the Southern-West coast of Cambodia, has mixed reviews and depending on what you’re looking for you will either love it or hate it. Known for being a party town with ever increasing casinos and resorts, it’s a backpacker hangout suited for a young crowd. However,  it is the gateway to Cambodia’s south islands which are much much nicer and quieter then the beaches of Sihanoukville. This is where it redeems itself.

So what’s Sihanoukville like?

The town of Sihanoukville is not exactly the prettiest and the Russian mafia are known to occupy some parts, although seem to be dispersing and making way for Chinese investors. Although not hugely dangerous to visit you do have to watch out for bag snatching here. Many thief’s will swipe bags whilst on motorbikes so keep your belongs away from the roadside. The main beach is lined with restaurants and no doubt the street kids selling things will immediately run up to you. There are also many woman on the beach offering cheap pedicures and foot massages. This can get irritating if you just want to relax on the beach.

The beach at night was quite good however with tables on the beach to sit and eat dinner and then a fire show and music afterwards. You will still be hassled by sellers but they will give up eventually.

And the good part of Sihanoukville?

The best part for sure though was actually getting off the mainland and heading for one of the surrounding islands! For me, the only reason I would go back to Sihanoukville is to head out to one of these paradise islands, away from the big crowds. And there are many to choose from.

I went to Koh Russei (Bamboo Island), which is 3 miles off the coast of the mainland, a tiny island about a mile long. It has a rugged beauty to it and our tour group were practically the only ones there at the time.

We walked through the jungle to the other side of the island and went for a swim before a lovely picnic on the beach. It couldn’t be further from the busyness of the mainland and was a chance to relax and have a fun beach day without being interrupted by people trying to sell you something.

Summed up…

So although I might not recommend Sihanoukville per say, I would definitely suggest visiting one the islands for those ‘paradise’ pictures and escape the crowds. I like that these islands are not as developed as the Thai islands feeling much more authentic. So what are your thoughts? Love it or hate it? Comment below …

If your in Cambodia you can’t miss Angkor Wat.