Introduction
Along Cambodia's south coast, rainforests stretch down to the sea, meeting mangroves and coral reefs.
In between, at places such as Sihanoukville, Kep and Kampot, lie white sand beaches, fringed by lively beach bars, while out to sea tranquil islands like Koh Tonsay provide the chance for memorable daytrips to isolated snorkelling spots or an opportunity to see locals harvesting seaweed and coconuts, or fishing among the clear coastal waters.
Turtles, sharks and dugongs are among the marine life found here, while the inland mountains are home to bears, tigers, elephants and plentiful bird species.
The coastal region stretches from the Thai border to the Mekong Delta and exudes an altogether different feel, both in terms of terrain and tempo to the rest of Cambodia, making it a popular extension to tours of Angkor and other inland attractions.