With hundreds of kilometres of coastline along with its warm tropical climate all year round, Cambodia’s potential as a beach destination is infinite.

Cambodia has significant potential as a beach destination due to its stunning coastline with pristine beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters along the Gulf of Thailand, said Jacques Guichandut, Founder and Managing Director, All Dreams Cambodia and official representative of the Ministry of Tourism for Europe. It has been steadily improving in recent years. There are now a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, as well as restaurants and bars.

It is interesting to see that Western clients whether high-end or low end both tend to spend twice as much time on the beaches rather than in archaeological sites, said Alexis de Suremain, Maads brand Founder. There’s a huge opportunity here, if Cambodia has a complete offer, particularly with the beaches and resorts on the sea that would make travellers extend their stay in Cambodia.

“Cambodia possesses significant potential as a beach destination due to its pristine coastline, picturesque islands, and burgeoning tourism infrastructure,” said Jean-Benoît Lasselin, C4 partner, C4 Adventures. However, it’s important to note that the regional market is highly competitive, with established destinations like Thailand and Indonesia dominating the scene. While massive investment is essential, it’s equally important for Cambodia to innovate and differentiate itself to attract visitors in a crowded marketplace.

Boasting over 400 kilometres of coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, Cambodia possesses incredible potential as a beach destination, said Catherine Germier-Hamel, CEO and founder of Millennium Destinations. Other aquatic bodies like the Mekong River and Tonlé Sap Lake also offer beaches but the Kingdom hasn’t yet fully capitalised on this potential.

 
 
“Having worked in the Pacific region, particularly in the Fiji Islands, I’ve witnessed firsthand how Fiji has successfully established itself as a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and welcoming hospitality,” said Jeremie Clement, General Manager, Peninsula Phnom Penh. Cambodia could work on crafting a distinctive brand identity for its beach destinations, highlighting their unique attributes such as secluded islands, rich marine life, and cultural heritage.

The challenges for beach tourism as I see it is plastic pollution, said Katrine Solhaug, owner of Babel Guesthouse and Babel Boutique Hotel, Siem Reap. Plastic trash is covering quite big parts of the beaches everywhere. This is a worldwide problem and not a specific problem for Cambodia, but I often read reviews on places to stay on beaches in Cambodia where tourists complain about plastic pollution.

The potential is enormous with places to hang out for the locals during the weekend, said Ayub Yulianto, General Manager for Novotel Sihanoukville Holiday Resort. It can also act as an extension for international tourists after visiting Siem Reap.

While beach tourism has traditionally been associated with mass tourism and leisure-focused activities, evolving traveller preferences and concerns about sustainability are driving a change in the industry, said Lasselin.

While Cambodia’s beach destinations are gaining popularity, they still maintain a sense of unspoiled beauty and tranquillity compared to more heavily developed tourist spots. This appeals to travellers seeking a quieter and more authentic beach experience.