Koh Rong Samloem

What to See on Koh Rong Samloem

Saracen Bay

The island’s main beach and tourist area — a perfect three-kilometre crescent named after the British survey ship HMS Saracen, which charted the area in the 19th century. The bay faces the mainland, sheltering it from monsoon swells, which keeps the water calm almost year-round.

M’Pai Bay

A small fishing village on the island’s north coast, reachable by an hour-long jungle trail or a short boat ride from Saracen Bay. Far fewer visitors, simple guesthouses, and some of the best snorkelling around the island.

Lazy Beach

A secluded stretch on the southwest coast accessible mainly by boat — named for exactly the activity it invites. One of the quietest beaches in the entire archipelago.

How to Get to Koh Rong Samloem

Speedboats run from Sihanoukville’s pier directly to Saracen Bay, taking around 45 minutes to an hour ($10–15 one-way). Some routes stop at Koh Rong first — check whether your ferry is direct if time matters. From Koh Rong’s Koh Touch village, a short hop boat to Samloem takes about 20–30 minutes.

Practical Tips

• Saracen Bay is the most reliably swimmable beach on either island regardless of season, thanks to its sheltered position
• Most accommodation runs on solar power — expect simple rather than luxurious amenities outside the handful of higher-end resorts
• Bring a headlamp; paths between bungalows and the beach are unlit after dark

Nearby Attractions

• Koh Rong — the livelier neighbouring island, 20–30 minutes by boat
• Otres Beach — the mainland departure point for most island ferries
• Koh Ta Kiev — another off-grid island option, reached separately from the mainland