Sihanoukville is often seen as a beach town, but beyond the sunbathing and seafood stands, it offers some surprisingly memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re interested in tasting authentic Khmer spices, exploring the rural countryside, or combining a scenic tour with a hearty meal, this city has options that go beyond the typical tourist fare. We especially like the La Plantation tour for its focus on Kampot pepper and delicious local dishes, and the Kampot countryside & kayak tours for their blend of adventure, culture, and food. For those seeking a full-day experience with tropical island views, the Ream National Park tour is hard to beat. Each offers its own unique flavor, catering to different interests, budgets, and time frames.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover three top lunch experiences that highlight Sihanoukville’s rich local flavors and natural beauty. First, the La Plantation tour combines a guided visit to a spice farm with a Khmer lunch. Next, the Kampot countryside & kayak tours offer a full-day adventure with various stops, including a pepper farm and a riverside lunch. Lastly, the Ream National Park tour provides a full-day exploration of sacred temples, mangroves, and island beaches, all with a scenic lunch break. Each has its own appeal, from casual to more comprehensive trips—read on to find out which fits your style.
1. La Plantation tour (discovering Kampot Pepper) + Lunch
At number 1, the La Plantation tour offers a short but sweet experience, perfect for those who want to learn about one of Cambodia’s most famous exports—Kampot pepper—and enjoy a tasty Khmer lunch. Located just outside of Sihanoukville, the plantation is set amid lush countryside between Kampot and Kep, making for a peaceful escape from the busy town. The tour lasts about an hour and includes a guided walk through the farm, where you’ll see how pepper is grown and processed, and a tasting session with spices and recipes to try at home.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to connect with the local agricultural heritage while enjoying the farm’s scenic setting. After the farm visit, a two-course Khmer lunch is included, giving you a genuine taste of Cambodia’s flavors. The food is praised for being both delicious and authentic, with vegetarian options available—important for those with dietary restrictions.
Guests particularly appreciate the picturesque location and the informative guide, with reviews highlighting the farm’s beauty and the quality of the lunch. One reviewer called it “the most picturesque location” and noted the food was “amazing.” The main downside is the drive to the farm, which some found tough, though this doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
Bottom Line: The La Plantation tour is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a quick, immersive experience into Cambodia’s spice trade combined with a flavorful Khmer lunch. It’s perfect if you’re after an easy day trip with educational value and good food.
2. Kampot countryside & kayak tours include pepper farm and Lunch
Ranking second, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Kampot’s rural life along with a delicious lunch, making it ideal for those craving variety. For around $46, you’ll get a chance to explore salt fields, visit a 7th-century Hindu temple inside Phnom Chhngok Cave, and glide through the Kampot River on a kayak—an activity that earns this tour a special mention for its blend of adventure and culture.
The tour kicks off with a visit to the salt fields, where an English-speaking guide explains traditional salt-making methods. Next, you’ll explore Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, home to a Hindu shrine from the 7th century, and get a chance to see thousands of bats in the adjoining cave. The journey continues to a secret lake called Brateak Krola, where you can relax and take photos before heading to La Plantation for the pepper farm visit and tasting.
Guests love the diversity of sights and activities, with one reviewer calling it “Trés bien, organisation parfaite, guide très bien, kayak bien.” The highlight is often the mix of sightseeing, paddling, and the farm visit, all wrapped up with a satisfying local lunch. The trip’s length (around 9-10 hours) suits travelers with a full day to spare and a sense of adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a deep dive into Kampot’s countryside, combined with a pepper farm visit and kayaking. It offers excellent value for a full day of diverse experiences.
3. Sihanoukville: Ream National Park Guided Tour with Lunch
At number 3, the Ream National Park tour is the most comprehensive and scenic option, ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure combining nature, culture, and a relaxing beach lunch. For $139, this guided tour takes you from Sihanoukville through mangroves, to sacred temples, and even onto tropical islands, with all transportation and lunch included.
The day begins with a visit to Wat Samathi Temple, where you can learn about Buddhist meditation and take in sweeping sea views. Then, explore the mangrove forests on a boat ride, spotting coastal wildlife along the way. The trip continues to Prince Island, a peaceful spot with clear waters perfect for swimming or just unwinding on the beach. The tour includes a scenic lunch on the island, with time to relax, swim, or sunbathe.
This tour is best suited for travelers with a full day to spare who enjoy nature and cultural sights. It’s a hassle-free experience with pickup and drop-off at Sihanoukville Port, making it perfect for cruise passengers or those wanting a well-organized trip. The review is glowing, with one reviewer simply stating, “5/5,” highlighting the overall satisfaction.
Bottom Line: The Ream National Park tour is ideal if you’re after a full-day, all-in-one experience that blends wildlife, culture, and beach relaxation. It’s best for active travelers who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple outings.
$139 per person
How to Choose
When deciding among these lunch experiences, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a quick peek into Cambodia’s spice heritage paired with authentic Khmer food, the La Plantation tour offers a relaxed, educational outing. For those craving a full-day adventure with kayaking, cultural visits, and rural scenery, the Kampot countryside & kayak tours provide excellent value and variety. If you prefer a comprehensive day of nature, temples, and island beaches, the Ream National Park tour is your best pick—especially if you’re short on time or arriving by cruise.
Think about your budget: the short farm tour is the most affordable, while the full-day Ream tour is more expensive but packed with activities. If you’re interested in outdoor activities and exploring rural life, the second option fits well. For a mix of cultural learning and beautiful landscapes, the first and third tours are excellent.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the full-day tours, to secure spots and plan around your cruise or hotel schedule. Check the tour websites for availability and consider your fitness level—some walking and paddling are involved.
In summary, Sihanoukville offers a rich variety of lunch experiences beyond its beaches. Whether you prefer learning about spices, exploring countryside with kayaking, or enjoying a full-day island adventure, there’s a perfect fit for your interests. For a quick, authentic taste of Cambodia’s spice trade, the La Plantation tour is a winner. For a full day of active exploration, the Kampot countryside & kayak tours deliver a memorable experience, while the Ream National Park tour is best for those wanting a scenic, nature-filled day.
Don’t wait too long to book—these popular trips fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a full belly and a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s diverse landscape and flavors.