Situated on Cambodia’s west coast facing into the Gulf of Thailand, Otres Beach is a charming Cambodian beachside town that has thus far avoided mass development that plagues so many beach towns in South East Asia.

Whether you are planning a visit just for the fabulous beach weather in the dry season, or you are adding a relaxing stop to a Cambodia road trip, it pays to know a little more about Otres before booking accommodation for your family.

The best place to stay with kids at Otres Beach really depends on your group size and how compromising you are on your mod cons – options range from rustic to luxury but there are no big hotel names to be seen.

The main difference is simply geography. Otres 1 and 2 are on the beach, whereas Otres Village sits between the two and slightly inland on a small river. Otres 1 is slightly closer to Sihanoukville (meaning cheaper transportation and more Sihanoukville day trippers) and Otres 2 lies to the south.

Both beaches are lined with shack-like restaurants offering sun-loungers, dining and refreshments. In all but those owned by resorts on the road opposite, the sun loungers are free for anyone to use all along both beaches. 

As a minimum courtesy, of course, you should look to buy a drink or dine at your chosen lodgings. We never felt harassed or pressured to buy wherever we sat – except, of course, from the hawkers willing to defoliate or massage any limb they can!