Sihanoukville in May
Good time to visit
Brutally hot and increasingly wet, but rock-bottom prices make it tempting. The heat is genuinely challenging – you'll spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces or hiding under beach umbrellas.
Weather
May brings intense heat and rising humidity as rainy season builds. Afternoon temperatures regularly hit 35°C with stifling humidity around 85%. Thunderstorms become frequent, usually in late afternoon or evening.
35°C high26°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$38/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Buddha's Birthday (Visak Bochea)
- •Royal Plowing Ceremony preparations
May Tips
- •Mornings are your friend – do everything before 10am
- •Afternoon storms can be intense but brief
- •Excellent deals on accommodation as tourist season winds down
All Months
November through April gives you the sweet spot - dry skies, steady breezes, and temperatures that don't melt your phone. December and January get busy with European winter escapees, so book ahead. March and April heat up but stay dry. The rains start in May and don't quit until October. And we're talking proper monsoon downpours, not gentle showers. Some places close completely. But if you don't mind getting soaked, accommodation prices drop by half and you'll have beaches mostly to yourself between storms.
Sihanoukville Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
5/10
Families
5/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
7/10
Luxury
4/10
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