THE HISTORY OF INDEPENDENCE HOTEL BY DARA

Independence Liberation from the stress of cramped spaces, invasive concrete, crowded beaches. Amongst 22 acres of rainforest and tropical gardens, enjoy the ocean and its balmy breeze, the harmony with nature, the gentle and constant attention of a dedicated staff. Independence, the crown jewel of Cambodia’s art of hospitality.


History by the Sea 1964 Nine years after gaining its independence, Cambodia experiences its Golden Age. Creative architecture, musical blossoming with popular artists such as Sin Sisamuth, whose influence is still palpable nowadays, and inauguration of the first beach resort in the country, Independence. King Norodom Sihanouk, passionate about the project, invites luminaries from the world to stay here, including Jacqueline Kennedy, the widow of U.S. President J.F. Kennedy, in November 1967.


After the turmoil and the dark years of the 1970s and 1980s, the resort regained slowly its former luster, undergoing a comprehensive campaign of renovation and extension from 2004, on the initiative of a group of Cambodian entrepreneurs and investors.

Today, a new phase of beautifcation for the “Grande Dame” of Cambodian hospitality is under completion, with the recent opening of our redesigned Sunset restaurant and a glamorous infinity pool right on the shore to be inaugurated soon. Cambodian younger generations consider with pride and affection this symbol of the Golden Age.

A nature Sanctuary, Entering Independence vast premises from the winding seaside road, you immerse yourself in an universe of majestic trees and tropical flora, preserved animal life and serene quietness. Several species of hardwood trees that have unfortunately disappeared from the shores of the Gulf of Thailand remain protected here.

Strolling along alleyways and stairways carved into the rocks, you reach Independence Beach itself on one side, the Terrace promenade on the other, and then it is time to enjoy all the bounties from the ocean, swimming in aquamarine waters, lounging on the sand or on the decks of Sunset restaurant, walking the jetty that extends far into the sea.

Photo by: Supplied & Sakrura Engly

The most popular accommodation, with a decor mixing traditional Khmer elements and modern design. King-size bed or twins. The impressive picture windows provide a view on the rainforest, with the ocean in the background. Separate bathroom with large tub and shower. 36 sq m. 46 rooms located from the 2nd to the 7th floor. From $110
The large and luminous accommodation with a well-appointed sitting area. King-size bed. Jacuzzi-like bathtub in the bathroom overlooking the sea. Modernist decoration. Situated at each corner of the History Building, this welcoming space offers breathtaking, 90° views over the ocean through its bay windows. 58 sqm. 5 suites located from the 2nd to the 6th floor. Extra bed available upon request. From 160 $
JACQUELINE KENNEDY SUITE, Live the legend with our signature suite featuring a vast living room with work station, a separate dining room and its fully equipped bar-kitchenette, and a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Restroom for guests. Elegant furniture highlighted with traditional and modern Cambodian artworks. At the top of the History Building, the view over the ocean is an endless wonder. 135 sqm. On the top floor, 7th. From 450 $.
SEA PAVILION, Surrounded by landscaped grounds on the seashore, this comfortable room in one of our sea pavilions opens on a private terrace or balcony. Tastefully decorated with bright traditional fabrics and sleek furniture. King-size bed. En-suite bathroom with solar-heated water. 36 sqm. 36 rooms on ground and 1st floors. from 120 USD
STUDIO, The Ideal for honeymooners. Contemporary, bright decoration for this space offering great views over Sihanoukville Bay. Indoor sitting area and large terrace with sunbeds. King-size bed or twins. Separate bathroom with solar-heated water. 38 sqm. 10 studios located on ground floor. From 140 USD
PREMIER VILLA: The Spacious and airy space by the sea, the villa is decorated with fine traditional fabrics and modern furniture. Master bedroom with king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with bathtub and shower cabin, solar-heated water. Living room with large bay windows open to the terrace. 60 sqm. 24 villas facing the ocean or the gardens. From 190 USD
FAMILY SUITE: Two bedrooms (king-size bed or twins), both with a spacious bathroom with tub and separate shower stand, solar-heated water. In-between, a large and elegantly appointed living room boasts sitting and dining areas, with a functional kitchenette. Ideal for a family stay by the sea, or for two couples traveling together. 117 sq m. 3 units on ground level. From 330 USD
PRIVATE POOL VILLA 2 BEDROOMS: Ultimate luxury and comfort, with a private swimming pool overlooking the ocean. Spacious living room with fully-equipped kitchenette opening to spectacular views and the pool deck. Two lavishly decorated bedrooms with king-size bed or twins, two large bathrooms with bathtubs and shower cabin (solar-heated water). Interior patio with glass-walled steam room. 272 sqm. 3 villas right on the seashore. Pool size from 5 x 5 to 6 x 7 m. From 800 USD
THE PODS VILLAGE The Pod Village is cluster of individual accommodation pods, developed by the Independence Hotel within the grounds of the property, offering a unique natural jungle setting while still having complete access to all the hotels many services, restaurants, spa, pools and beach.
ECO-POD The PODs are located in a heavily wooded area within the ground of the Independence Hotel, separated and surrounded by jungle, away from the mainstream while still giving access to all the Hotel’s facilities. From 90 USD