Diving in Cambodia: The best dive sites
Wondering where to dive in Cambodia? Now is the perfect time to discover the country's best natural sites! Whether you're into snorkeling or scuba diving, the underwater world can be explored with a dive club or independently with a mask, fins, and snorkel (PMT). Here are 10 spots for unforgettable underwater hikes and deep-sea immersions!
1. Koh Rong: The must-visit island for diving in Cambodia
The second-largest island in Cambodia, Koh Rong is located in the Sihanoukville province. It is home to the Back Door dive site, known for its vast rock formations, ideal for observing marine life. You’ll likely spot Cobias (also known as "black salmon"). Koh Rong is perfect for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
2. Koh Kon: The island of octopuses and seahorses
Koh Kon is filled with underwater wonders. During your dive, you’ll have the chance to spot various species of octopuses and seahorses, as well as nudibranchs and the terrifying stonefish…
3. Koh Rong Samloem: The perfect island for snorkeling in Cambodia
Koh Rong Samloem is a magical site for PMT (mask, fins, and snorkel) enthusiasts. Close to the shore, it’s not uncommon to see rays, seahorses, and unique starfish species like the Protoreaster nodosus, known as the "vibrant-horn starfish," often found in shallow waters.
4. Koh Tang: The island to admire nudibranchs
Located on the southwest coast of Cambodia, Koh Tang is famous for its coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for surface diving. A very wild part of the country, it is home to exceptional marine fauna. During your dive, you might encounter lionfish, barracudas, large rays, and nudibranchs—gorgeous sea slugs known for their colorful bodies!
5. The Koh Sdach Archipelago: The wildest spot
Made up of 12 islands, the Koh Sdach archipelago is sought after for its coral reefs. During your sea excursion, you’ll feel as though you're alone in the world, as these islands are uninhabited! Due to its untouched nature, the archipelago boasts incredible biodiversity. For diving, contact a diving center and join one of their trips…
6. Condor Reef: The dive site to observe shipwrecks
About 30 km south of Koh Sdach, you’ll find Condor Reef, considered one of the best scuba diving sites in Cambodia. The reason? The shipwrecks of junks that dot its depths! For a long time, it wasn’t uncommon to find porcelain and gold (many of these treasures are now displayed in the National Museum in Phnom Penh). The site is a fantastic aquatic playground, where you can explore the wreckage and observe reef sharks.
7. Koh Prins: The small archipelago of the chicken island
Koh Prins consists of three islets, including the eponymous Koh Prins ("the big island") and Koh Moan, called "Chicken Island" because the shape of the cliffs resembles a chicken’s head… This small archipelago is known for its rich marine life. You’ll have the chance to admire schools of jacks, cuttlefish, anemones, as well as moray eels and stingrays!
8. Koh Ta Kiev: The lost island with turquoise waters
Renowned for its shorelines, which are among the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia, Koh Ta Kiev is a favorite for diving enthusiasts. Why? Its proximity to the Ream National Park, which provides extremely rich marine environments! It’s an ideal site for snorkeling.
9. Koh Thas: The ideal island to introduce children to diving
With a splendid coral reef and shallow waters, Koh Thas is a small island perfect for free diving and introducing children to snorkeling. It is also known for its anemones and various species of fish, such as the colorful parrotfish and the imposing Lutjanus vivanus!
10. Shark Island: The Shark Island of Koh Tao
Located 800 meters south of Koh Tao, Shark Island is known for its whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and leopard sharks that populate the surrounding waters… It’s a steep island mainly suited for scuba diving, especially for experienced divers. To reach the island, you can take a boat or rent a kayak!
When to dive in Cambodia?
With its tropical climate, Cambodia enjoys pleasant temperatures all year round. Therefore, diving and snorkeling are possible in all seasons! Note that the country has two main seasons: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April).
Audrey Denjean