Otres Beach | Sihanoukville, Cambodia | Complete Travel Guide

Otres Beach is a serene stretch of coastline located about 8 kilometers south of Sihanoukville city in southern Cambodia. Known for its soft white sand and clear, swimmable waters, Otres offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to the busier and more developed Ochheuteal or Serendipity beaches nearby. The beach is typically divided into two main areas—Otres 1 and Otres 2. Otres 1 has a livelier scene with more guesthouses and beach bars, while Otres 2 is quieter, offering a more peaceful and spacious beachfront experience.

Traditionally a backpacker favorite, Otres Beach was once lined with rustic bamboo bungalows and open-air beach shacks. In recent years, however, the area has undergone significant development, with portions of the beach cleared for high-rise construction projects, particularly those funded by foreign investors. Despite these changes, large parts of Otres still retain their charm, especially the southern end, where small-scale resorts, chilled-out bars, and undeveloped beachfront preserve the original character of the area.

Otres is especially popular for its vibrant sunsets, easygoing vibe, and community of international travelers. Visitors come to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, beachside dining, and weekend markets with live music. Unlike the casino-heavy urban feel of central Sihanoukville, Otres remains a preferred escape for those seeking calm, culture, and coastal beauty. Accessible year-round, Otres Beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a blend of relaxation and adventure on Cambodia’s southern coast.

How Do You Reach Otres Beach?

Otres Beach is located just south of Sihanoukville and is well-connected by road, making it relatively easy to reach from several major cities in Cambodia.

From Phnom Penh: Otres Beach is about 200 kilometers southwest of Phnom Penh. The journey by road typically takes 4 to 5 hours via bus or van. Several bus companies operate daily routes to Sihanoukville, where travelers can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Otres Beach, which is another 15 to 30 minutes away. Private taxis are also available and offer more comfort and flexibility. A new expressway between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville has significantly reduced travel time for those driving or using taxis, cutting the journey to around 2 hours. There are occasional domestic flights and a train service between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, but these options are slower or less frequent.

From Siem Reap: Siem Reap is approximately 530 kilometers from Otres Beach. Direct overland travel by bus or van takes about 10 hours. Many travelers prefer breaking the journey with a stopover in Phnom Penh. Flights from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville are available and take about one hour, though schedules may be limited. From Sihanoukville Airport, Otres Beach is about 20 kilometers by taxi.

From Sihanoukville City: If you’re already in Sihanoukville, Otres Beach is only 5 to 8 kilometers away. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are readily available and take about 15 to 25 minutes to reach the beach, depending on your starting point. Fares are usually inexpensive, especially when negotiated in advance.

From Kampot or Kep: Kampot is roughly 100 kilometers from Otres. Buses and vans make the journey in 2 to 3 hours. There is also a train connecting Kampot to Sihanoukville. Private taxis are available and offer a faster, more direct trip. Travelers coming from Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem islands can take a ferry to Sihanoukville and then continue by tuk-tuk to Otres.

Getting to Otres Beach is straightforward, and transport options are available for all budgets and travel styles. Once in Sihanoukville, it’s just a short and easy ride to the calm shores of Otres.

Beach Access & Hours

Timings: Otres Beach is free and open to the public year-round, with no official opening or closing hours. Unlike private resort beaches, there are no fences or entry fees, allowing visitors to enjoy the beach at any time of day or night. Early morning walks, daytime swims, and evening sunset strolls are all possible without restriction.

Accessibility: Though the beach is technically accessible 24/7, after dark it becomes very quiet. There are no streetlights along the beach, so it can get quite dark, making it advisable not to walk alone far from populated areas at night. For safety, it’s better to stay near guesthouses or beach bars that remain open after sunset, or use tuk-tuks for transportation at night.

Otres Beach is accessible during all seasons, though the experience may vary depending on the weather. During the dry season, the sand is clean and firm, and the water is calm. In the rainy season, parts of the access road can become muddy or partially flooded, and some businesses may close or reduce hours. Still, visitors can enjoy the beach during this period, especially in the mornings when rain is less likely.

Beach Facilities: There are no centralized beach facilities like lifeguard towers or public restrooms, but many beachfront businesses allow the use of their sunbeds, shade umbrellas, and bathrooms if you purchase food or drinks. Beach bars and restaurants typically open by late morning and stay open until 10 or 11 PM, with some venues hosting live music or social events later into the night.

Beach Layout & Size: The beach itself spans approximately 3 to 4.5 kilometers. While some areas have been impacted by recent construction, large stretches of the coastline—especially around Otres 1 and Otres 2—remain accessible, scenic, and uncrowded, making it easy to find a quiet spot for relaxation.

Things to Do at Otres Beach

Despite its relaxed and tranquil vibe, Otres Beach offers a wide range of activities for visitors looking to explore, unwind, or enjoy a bit of adventure.

Swimming and Sunbathing: Otres Beach is known for its soft white sand and calm, clear water. It’s perfect for swimming, especially during the dry season. Visitors can relax on beach mats or use sun loungers provided by beachfront bars and restaurants, often free with a drink or meal purchase. The beach is less crowded than others in Sihanoukville, making it ideal for peaceful sunbathing.

Water Sports: Activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing are available along the beach. Rentals and lessons are offered by local operators, particularly near Otres 1. Jet skiing and banana boat rides may also be available during high season. Calm seas from December to April offer the best conditions for these sports.

Island Hopping and Boat Trips: Otres is a great base for day trips to nearby islands such as Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Russei (Bamboo Island). These excursions often include snorkeling, beach picnics, and swimming in clearer offshore waters. Boat tours can be booked at local guesthouses or travel shops, and some operators offer sunset cruises from Otres Beach.

Snorkeling and Diving: While the waters directly off Otres aren’t ideal for snorkeling, nearby islands offer better visibility and marine life. Day tours for snorkeling are popular, and dive centers in Sihanoukville offer scuba trips around the outer islands.

Beach Sports and Massages: Volleyball games are sometimes organized near beach bars. Visitors can also rent bicycles or scooters to explore the surrounding countryside. For relaxation, beachside massages are widely available and affordable.

Exploring Otres Village: A short distance inland, Otres Village offers a different atmosphere with artist studios, budget hostels, and cafés. It’s a good place to find community events, yoga classes, and creative workshops.

Sunset Watching: Otres Beach faces west, offering stunning sunsets. Many beach bars host sunset happy hours, and the view of the sun dipping into the Gulf of Thailand is one of the highlights of any visit.

Otres Market: Held on Saturday evenings in Otres Village, the market features live music, food stalls, handmade crafts, and a lively, bohemian atmosphere. It’s a great place to mingle with other travelers and enjoy local performances.

Day Trips Nearby: Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Ream National Park and Kbal Chhay Waterfall. These destinations offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and cooling off in freshwater pools.

Dos and Don’ts for Visitors

Safety Measures and Tips

Swimming Safety

• No lifeguards on duty – swim at your own risk.
• Waters are usually calm in dry season; rougher in rainy season.
• Avoid swimming alone, at night, or too far from shore.
• Watch out for boats and jet skis near the beach.
• Jellyfish can appear occasionally – check with locals before swimming.

Heat and Sun Exposure

• Use high-SPF sunscreen; reapply regularly.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water.
• Take shade breaks during peak heat (11 AM–3 PM).
• Carry oral rehydration salts to prevent heat exhaustion.

Crime and Theft Prevention

• Violent crime is rare; petty theft can occur.
• Don’t leave bags or valuables unattended on the beach.
• Lock your room/bungalow and use a safe if available.
• On tuk-tuks or motorbikes, keep bags on the inside, away from traffic.

Scams and Tourist Caution

• Always confirm prices before using tuk-tuks, rentals, or tours.
• Avoid offers involving drugs, gambling, or anything suspicious.
• Use trusted operators, especially for boat trips and gear rentals.

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 117
• Ambulance: 119
• Fire: 118
• Tourist Police are available in Sihanoukville and speak English.
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly advised.

Health Precautions

• Drink only bottled or filtered water.
• Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Bring any personal medication and basic first aid supplies.
• Pharmacies are available in Sihanoukville; serious cases should go to Phnom Penh or Bangkok.
• Use insect repellent and cover up at dusk to avoid mosquito bites.

Wildlife and Environment Awareness

• Watch out for sandflies and mosquitoes, especially in early morning and evening.
• Avoid petting or feeding stray animals.
• Wear water shoes when walking in rocky areas to avoid sea urchin stings.

Road and Night Safety

• Roads around Otres can be poorly lit and uneven.
• Avoid walking alone at night; use tuk-tuks or taxis instead.
• If renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and drive carefully, especially in wet conditions.

What to Carry to Otres Beach

Packing smart will help you enjoy your time at Otres Beach comfortably and safely. Here’s a checklist of essentials and helpful extras:

Clothing & Accessories

• Swimsuit and beachwear for lounging and swimming
• Cover-up, sarong, or light T-shirt for modesty when off the beach
• Quick-dry towel or sand-resistant beach mat
• Hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun
• Flip-flops or sandals for the beach
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals if exploring inland or villages
• Light rain jacket or poncho (especially during rainy season)

Sun & Insect Protection

• High-SPF sunscreen (30 or above)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET or natural alternative)
• After-bite or anti-itch cream
• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion (optional, but helpful)

Health & Hygiene

• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes or tissues
• Personal medications (with prescriptions if needed)
• Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, rehydration salts)
• Rehydration powder or electrolyte tablets

Food & Drink Essentials

• Reusable water bottle (many places offer filtered water refills)
• Light snacks or fruit for a beach picnic
• Zip-lock bags or dry bags to protect electronics and snacks from sand or water

Electronics & Safety

• Phone with charger or power bank
• Camera or waterproof phone pouch for photos
• Flashlight or headlamp for use at night (roads can be dark)
• Travel adapter if you’re from outside the region
• Travel insurance details and emergency contacts

Money & Documents

• Cash in small denominations (USD or Cambodian riel; many places don’t accept cards)
• Photocopy of passport and visa
• Lockable pouch or money belt for carrying valuables discreetly

Daypack or Beach Bag

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Large enough to hold all essentials, but secure enough to deter theft

Optional Extras

• Snorkel mask or goggles for island trips
• Water shoes for rocky areas or kayaking
• Books, journal, or playing cards for downtime
• Portable fan or cooling towel during hotter months

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Otres Beach offers a variety of accommodations ranging from simple backpacker hostels to mid-range resorts and boutique hotels. The area is divided into three main zones: Otres 1, Otres 2, and Otres Village. Each has its own atmosphere and caters to different types of travelers.

Budget Stays (Hostels & Bungalows)

For budget-conscious travelers, Otres Beach has several hostels and guesthouses offering dorms, fan rooms, and rustic bungalows. These are especially popular in Otres 1 and Otres Village. The vibe is social and relaxed, perfect for solo travelers or backpackers. Many places offer communal areas, hammocks, and casual bars. Prices start from as low as $5–$10 per night, and some offer beachfront or near-beach locations. Expect basic amenities—cold water showers, shared bathrooms, and simple beds.

1. SeaGarden (Otres 1 Beachfront)
2. Done Right (Otres 1)
3. Hacienda (Otres Village)
4. Wish You Were Here (Otres 1)
5. Boho (Otres Village)

Mid-Range (Boutique Hotels & Resorts)

Otres 2 is home to several mid-range boutique hotels and resorts that offer more comfort and privacy. These often include air conditioning, swimming pools, landscaped gardens, and on-site restaurants. Ideal for couples or families looking for peace and a clean, well-maintained stay. Prices range from $30 to $80 per night. Some of the more popular properties are beachfront or just a short walk from the water, and many include breakfast.

1. Sahaa Beach Resort (Otres 1)
2. Sea Breeze Resort (Otres 1)
3. Good Time Resort (Otres 1)
4. Tamu Otres (Otres 2)
5. Ren Resort (Otres 2)
6. White Boutique Hotel & Residences (Otres 2)
7. The Secret Garden at Otres Beach (Otres 2)
8. Sok Sabay Resort (Otres Village)
9. Otres Resort (Marina Road, Otres 2)

Higher-End Options

Although Otres Beach is not known for high-end luxury, there are a few upscale resorts and boutique hotels offering stylish rooms, modern amenities, and prime beachfront views. These accommodations are perfect for those who want comfort in a quieter, less developed beach setting. While still more affordable than big city resorts, they provide a touch of elegance with added perks like spa services, private beach access, and curated dining experiences.

1. Mary Beach Hotel & Resort – Otres 2
2. Naia Resort – Otres 2

Location Guide

• Otres 1: Livelier, with more budget options and casual beach bars.
• Otres 2: Quieter, cleaner, and more upscale with boutique resorts.
• Otres Village: Set inland, a short walk or tuk-tuk ride from the beach. It’s a backpacker and digital nomad hub with cafes, hostels, and art spaces.

Accommodations can fill up quickly during peak season (December to February), so it’s advisable to book in advance. During the low season (May to October), many places offer discounted rates, though some may close temporarily.

Food & Drink: Nearby Restaurants and Street Food

One of the joys of Otres Beach is the wide variety of food options available — from fresh Khmer seafood BBQ to international fare that reflects the area’s backpacker spirit and expat influences. Here’s what to expect:

Beach Shacks and Seafood BBQ

Along Otres, especially Otres 1, you’ll find a string of beach shack restaurants and bars. These rustic eateries typically serve a mix of Khmer dishes, Western comfort food, and plenty of seafood.

A signature experience here is the nightly BBQ. As the sun sets, grills are fired up on the sand, and you can enjoy grilled seafood platters — red snapper, squid, prawns — often served with fries or salad and a beer for around $5–$7. Each shack has its own personality — some play reggae music and serve barracuda fillet, while others offer mango salads in beach lounge chairs.

Popular spots include:

• Claro Otres
• Sunshine Cafe

New beach BBQ shacks pop up often. Local-looking places frequently serve the most authentic dishes, like fish amok (a creamy coconut curry steamed in banana leaves) and lok lak (peppery stir-fried beef with lime sauce).

Papa Pippo’s and Italian Cuisine

Thanks to a vibrant international community, Otres also features excellent Italian food. One legendary name is Papa Pippo, originally located right on Otres Beach and now found in Otres Village, just a short walk away.

Papa Pippo is beloved for:

• Wood-fired thin-crust pizzas
• Homemade seafood pastas
• Warm Italian hospitality

Another favorite is Eataly, which offers classic Italian dishes near the beach. Having brick-oven pizza by the sea is one of Otres’s most surprisingly delightful experiences.

Khmer and Asian Food

For traditional Cambodian flavors, don’t miss:

• Fish amok
• Khmer curry
• Lime-marinated shrimp
• Fried rice and noodles

One local spot affectionately known as “Otres Corner” or “Mama’s” is great for breakfast banana pancakes and Khmer soups.

In Otres Village, you’ll find:

• Local eateries offering grilled chicken, rice porridge, and noodle soups
• Quirky cafés like Jin Café (serving Khmer-Western brunch combos and good coffee)

You may also find stalls offering Thai, Vietnamese, or Japanese dishes, especially during events like the weekend market. Seasonal pop-ups and Malaysian-run restaurants may be present too.

Look out for vendors selling:

• Nom kachay (fried chive cakes)
• Sweet pork BBQ skewers

Fat Goose – A Culinary Gem

Located in Otres 2 at the White Boutique Hotel, Fat Goose Restaurant & Bar is perfect for a refined dining experience. It offers:

• A creative menu blending local and international cuisines
• Popular dishes like Mee Chaa (Khmer stir-fried noodles) and grilled seafood
• A full bar with signature cocktails and wine selections
• Beautifully plated meals and a cozy upscale atmosphere

It’s ideal for a date night or special evening. Due to its popularity, it’s wise to make a reservation during holidays or peak season.

Otres Market Food Stalls (Saturday Nights)

Every Saturday evening, Otres Village hosts the Otres Market, which transforms into a foodie paradise. You’ll find:

• Global street food like Indian curries, Turkish kebabs, falafel, pizzas, and baked goods
• Khmer BBQ and snacks
• Handmade hummus, dips, cakes, and brownies
• Bars offering unique drinks (like cocktails made with organic absinthe and flaming sugar)
• Live music and a festive vibe

Food is typically cooked fresh in front of you. Prices are affordable, and the relaxed, artistic crowd makes this a highlight of any weekend in Otres.

Drinks and Beach Bars

Drinks are cheap, and nearly every restaurant acts as a beach bar. Popular drinks include:

• Local beers like Angkor and Cambodia Beer (about $1–$1.50 during happy hours)
• Fresh fruit smoothies (perfect for daytime refreshment)
• Cocktails — try a Khmer twist on mojito with local sugarcane or a coconut by day, piña colada by night

Notable bars:

• Elephant Garden Bar – known for cocktails and a rooftop lounge
• Blame Canada Bar – once famous for sunset views and laid-back vibes
• Once in a Blue Moon (Otres Village) – cozy spot for craft beer and gin lovers

Wine is available in a few places (like Fat Goose), but is pricier due to import costs.

For coffee lovers, try:

• Dune Café (near Otres 1) – known for espresso and espresso martinis
• Local cafés offering traditional Khmer iced coffee with sweet milk

Street Food and Local Markets

Roving vendors on the beach offer:

• Tropical fruits like mango and pineapple (peeled and ready to eat)
• Grilled squid on sticks
• Quail eggs and beach snacks cooked on charcoal braziers

For a deeper dive into street food:

• Visit Phsar Leu (Sihanoukville Central Market), around 8 km away
• Try kuy teav (noodle soup), banana fritters, fried insects, and spring rolls
• Expect very low prices, generally under $2 per item

Dietary Notes

• Vegetarians and vegans will find ample options in cafés and the Otres Market
• Seafood is very fresh, often caught the same day — a must-try if you eat fish
• If you have a sensitive stomach, stick to busy restaurants with high turnover and avoid tap water
• Drink safety: stick to bottled or visibly prepared drinks to avoid counterfeit alcohol or bad homemade rice wine

Nightlife at Otres Beach

Otres Beach by day is mellow, but by night it comes alive in a uniquely chilled-out way. Don’t expect the raging clubs of Phnom Penh or the neon casinos of downtown Sihanoukville here. Instead, nightlife in Otres is about beach bars with bonfires, live music jams, and social gatherings under the stars. Here’s how to enjoy your evenings:

Otres Market (Saturday Night Live)

The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the Saturday night Otres Market. What starts as a sunset market (around 5–6 PM) transforms into a vibrant night festival. There’s a main stage that hosts live bands, singers, and occasionally fire-dancers.

Music at Otres Market ranges from acoustic sets and reggae bands to DJ mixes later at night. It’s a great place to hear talented traveling musicians and local artists — the atmosphere can feel like a mini music festival. People dance in the sand, browse the craft stalls (which stay open into the night), and mingle around the multiple bars serving cheap drinks. You’ll find craft beer, cocktails, shots, and of course the famous buckets — mixed drink concoctions in a sand pail meant for sharing.

The festival atmosphere is what makes Otres Market special: imagine fairy lights in the trees, travelers from all over swapping stories, and a generally free-spirited vibe. It usually goes until midnight or beyond. Entry is free; just bring cash for food and drinks.

Even if you’re not staying in Otres, visitors from Sihanoukville often come for this weekly event. The market can get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and maybe leave large cameras at home. Earplugs might be useful if your bungalow is nearby and you want to sleep before the music ends — though most people just join the fun.

Beach Bars and Chill-out Spots

On other nights of the week, Otres offers a handful of casual bars that keep things interesting. These are mostly low-key, open-air venues right on or near the beach.

Live music jams are common. For example, Stray Cats bar (if still around) hosted open-mic nights where travelers could join in with a guitar or bongo. Easy Going bar was known for fire shows — skilled performers twirling flaming poi or staffs on the beach after dark, often accompanied by drum circles.

Many bars light a bonfire on the sand once the sun sets. Travelers gather around on mats or plastic chairs, chatting and sipping drinks. Happy hour typically runs in the late afternoon, with some places offering a second late-night happy hour.

Drinks are cheap: $1.50 draft beers, $3 cocktails, and $4–$5 for imports. Some bars offer games like pool, foosball, or trivia nights. Otres Corner Bar, at the far end of Otres 1, once hosted pub quizzes and themed parties.

Dancing and Parties

While not as wild as Thailand’s islands, Otres does host occasional dance parties. DJ nights happen sporadically, often spread by word of mouth or flyers at cafés. In the past, groups like Kerfuffle organized beachside electronic music events.

These parties are low-fi — a DJ booth in the sand, funky lights strung in the trees, and people dancing barefoot under the stars. If you’re into late-night dancing, ask around at hostels — backpackers usually know if something’s happening.

The Otres 1 area tends to have the livelier scene and parties often wrap up by 2 AM out of respect for the local environment. During peak season (December and January), you might find special events like Christmas bonfires or New Year’s beach countdowns with fireworks.

Otres 2 vs Otres 1 at Night

Otres 2 is generally quieter. Bars here are more relaxed, with a focus on ambience — think lounge music, cocktails, and candle-lit seating. Spots like Elephant Garden or Sahaa Beach Bar were known for peaceful evenings by the sea.

Otres 1, being closer to the backpacker crowd, has the more active nightlife — with fire shows, live music, and beach parties. Still, it retains a friendly and laid-back feel. People bar-hop in flip-flops, and the vibe is more beach gathering than full-blown nightlife strip.

Serendipity and Casinos (If You Want More)

If you’re looking for livelier nightlife, the Serendipity Beach area in Sihanoukville offers nightclubs, karaoke bars (KTV), and casinos. JJ’s Playground was once a popular backpacker bar, and many Chinese-run clubs and casinos now dominate the city’s downtown.

However, the scene in central Sihanoukville is very different — neon lights, booming EDM, and a mixed crowd of tourists and gamblers. It’s not culturally reflective of Cambodia, and some travelers avoid it due to safety and atmosphere concerns.

If you do explore downtown, go in a group and plan your return in advance — either by taxi or with a pre-arranged tuk-tuk driver.

Special Events

Occasionally, larger regional festivals take place. The Cambodia Sea Festival, usually held in December, rotates between coastal towns. If it lands in Sihanoukville during your visit, expect large crowds, concerts, and water sports. Otres may not be the focal point, but often feels the overflow of beachgoers.

Khmer New Year in April also draws locals to the beaches. Otres might see more visitors and some venues may host special holiday events.

Safety at Night

As mentioned in the Dos and Don’ts section, always keep your bag zipped and avoid flashing valuables. Watch your drink being prepared, and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Most bars attract relaxed travelers rather than shady characters, but caution is always wise.

Drink within your limits — the mix of tropical heat and alcohol can catch you off guard. Have a plan to get home: walk with a flashlight if nearby, or use tuk-tuks or moto-taxis, which are usually parked along the main road even late at night. Negotiate the fare beforehand ($2–$3 within Otres, more to Sihanoukville).

The small, familiar community means you’ll often see the same friendly faces around, creating a village-like sense of comfort.

Stargazing and Bioluminescence

Even if nightlife isn’t your thing, nights in Otres can still be magical. On clear evenings, the stars are brilliant and easy to spot. Lie back on the beach and enjoy some of Cambodia’s best stargazing.

On particularly dark nights, you may also spot bioluminescent plankton in the shallow surf. If you walk along the water’s edge and stir the sand, you might see faint blue-green sparkles. Some travelers even take a midnight dip to see the glow — only do so if you’re sober, with a friend, and stay close to shore.

Best Time to Visit Otres Beach

The climate in Cambodia plays a big role in shaping your experience at Otres Beach. While it’s accessible year-round, weather conditions and crowd levels vary significantly depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the right time for your trip.

Dry Season (Late October to April)

This is considered the best time to visit Otres Beach. From November to April, you can expect warm, sunny days with little to no rain. Daytime temperatures usually range from 30–33°C (mid-80s to 90°F), while nights are cooler around 25°C (77°F).

• December and January are especially pleasant, with clear blue skies, lower humidity, and calm seas — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• These months mark the peak tourist season, especially around Christmas and New Year. Expect more visitors and higher accommodation rates, though Otres never feels overcrowded like larger beach destinations.
• February and March are still excellent, with slightly hotter temperatures but continued dry weather.
• April is the hottest month, with temperatures often climbing into the mid-30s°C. Early April is popular due to Khmer New Year, which brings in a festive atmosphere and more domestic tourists.

Hot Season (March to June)

This period overlaps with the end of the dry season and the beginning of the wet season.

• March and April are very hot and increasingly humid. While beach conditions remain good, midday heat can be intense — plan on taking breaks and staying hydrated.
• May and June are transitional months. You may begin to see occasional rain showers, typically in the afternoons. These months offer fewer tourists, lower prices, and increasingly lush landscapes.

Rainy Season (July to September)

This is Cambodia’s monsoon season, bringing frequent rains, mainly in the late afternoons and evenings.

• July and August typically see daily rain showers, but they are often brief and followed by sunshine. The upside: lush green scenery, quiet beaches, and the lowest accommodation rates.
• Many guesthouses and small businesses reduce hours or close temporarily, and the Otres Market usually takes a break during this time.
• September is the wettest month. While Otres Beach handles drainage better than Sihanoukville town, muddy roads and rougher seas can affect daily plans. Water clarity may decrease, and island boat trips may be canceled due to weather.

Despite the rain, there are often dry mornings and dramatic, beautiful skies. If you’re a budget traveler or enjoy solitude, this can still be a rewarding time to visit — just come prepared with a raincoat and flexible expectations.

Shoulder Season (October & Early November)

This period marks the transition from rainy to dry season.

• October sees the rains begin to taper off. It’s a good time to enjoy green surroundings and quieter beaches with only the occasional shower.
• November is one of the best months to visit: it’s mostly dry, temperatures are still manageable, and tourist crowds haven’t fully arrived. Expect a peaceful yet vibrant vibe with most businesses reopening.
• The Water Festival, often celebrated in November, brings a local festive spirit. While Otres sees smaller celebrations than Phnom Penh, you may witness boat races or family gatherings on the beach.

Crowd and Atmosphere by Season

• High Season (Dec–Feb): Social, active, and lively. All businesses are open, and events are frequent. Best for meeting other travelers and enjoying nightlife, but accommodation should be booked early.
• Low Season (Jul–Oct): Quiet, peaceful, and great for solitude. However, some businesses may close, and persistent rain can affect activities.
• Shoulder Seasons (Nov, May–June): Balanced weather, moderate prices, and fewer crowds. Ideal for travelers looking for a quieter yet well-functioning experience.

Festivals and Events

• Khmer New Year (mid-April): Brings crowds of domestic tourists to the beach for celebrations and picnics.
• Water Festival (November): May include small-scale events and local festivities.
• Christmas and New Year: Celebrated widely by tourists and expats. Expect beach parties, fireworks, and BBQs.
• Cambodian National Day & Pchum Ben (late September/early October): May bring local visitors.
• Sea Festival: Held in December in rotating coastal towns. If hosted in Sihanoukville, it draws large crowds for concerts, water sports, and performances — great energy, but busy.