Koh Rong Sanloem
A low-key island paradise with long, white-sand beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas, clear skies
Koh Rong Sanloem
Best Time
Calm seas, clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A low-key island paradise with long, white-sand beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
"This island is truly a paradise on earth with its crystal clear water, snow-white sand and tranquil atmosphere."
Bring all your cash! 💰
No ATMs on the island. Carry enough USD for your entire stay.
Pack light, travel smart :handbag:
Ferries can be bumpy. Pack essentials and leave valuables at home.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saracen Bay's Serenity
Saracen Bay
Pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy romantic evenings with beachside dining.
Lazy Beach Bliss
Lazy Beach
A quieter, more secluded beach offering a tranquil escape with stunning sunset views. Ideal for relaxation and unwinding.
Sunset Beach Magic
Sunset Beach
Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, this beach is a must-visit for photographers and romantics alike.
Bioluminescent Wonders
Various beaches (at night)
Experience the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton by swimming in the dark ocean. An unforgettable natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King (and Queen!)
Timing is Everything for Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring all your cash! 💰
No ATMs on the island. Carry enough USD for your entire stay.
Pack light, travel smart :handbag:
Ferries can be bumpy. Pack essentials and leave valuables at home.
Embrace the digital detox :iphone:
Wi-Fi and mobile signal are unreliable. Enjoy being disconnected!
Choose your beach wisely :palm_tree:
Party vibes vs. quiet retreats – research your preferred beach before booking.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring all your cash! 💰
No ATMs on the island. Carry enough USD for your entire stay.
Pack light, travel smart :handbag:
Ferries can be bumpy. Pack essentials and leave valuables at home.
Embrace the digital detox :iphone:
Wi-Fi and mobile signal are unreliable. Enjoy being disconnected!
Choose your beach wisely :palm_tree:
Party vibes vs. quiet retreats – research your preferred beach before booking.
Dry season is best :sun:
For calmer seas and easier travel, visit between November and April.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Koh Rong Sanloem is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters and pristine white-sand beaches, offering a tropical paradise experience. Visitors rave about the romantic sunsets and the magical bioluminescent plankton. However, some reviews highlight concerns about ongoing development, litter, and higher-than-expected prices, suggesting a need to manage expectations and choose locations wisely.
"Beautiful beach, the water is so clean that I can see fish swimming under the pier.
In the evening you can enjoy the romantic moment by sitting on the lazy chair, drink beer and watch the candles they decorate on the beach.
It takes around 45 minutes from the pier to Kohrong Sanloem island. You should go in the dry season because the sea is calmer.
I miss this island, I will bring my friends come back soon."
Steven Nguyen
"Koh Rong Sanloem is a tropical paradise that still retains much of its natural charm. The island is home to several boutique and luxury resorts, especially around Saracen Bay and Sunset Beach, making it a great place to unwind away from the crowds.
Getting here, however, is a bit of a journey. First, you’ll need to reach Sihanoukville, which itself is not easily accessible from Phnom Penh due to limited and often delayed bus services. Once in Sihanoukville, a ferry ride (usually 45 mins to 1 hour) will take you to the island. It’s worth noting that weather conditions can sometimes delay or cancel ferries, so flexibility is key.
There are no ATMs on the island, so carrying sufficient cash is a must. Also, internet and mobile signals can be patchy.
While much of the island is still serene, parts of Koh Rong Sanloem—like its sister island, Koh Rong—are undergoing rapid development, largely driven by Chinese investments. This could potentially impact the untouched feel in the near future, so it’s best to visit sooner rather than later.
Despite the travel hassle, the island’s beauty, clear waters, and magical sunsets more than make up for it."
Vidya H
"This island is truly a paradise on earth.
- I love its crystal clear water, snow-white sand and tranquil atmosphere. There is no trashes on Saracen Beach. During the day I did snorkeling and fishing and sunset The bioluminescence plankton was amazing.But you have to jump into the sea in the dark to see it; believe me it’s worth it.
- There are party beaches and quiet beaches so choose wisely based on your preference.
- I stayed at La Passion Achariyak Resort. The hotel is very accommodating and offers exceptional services. The staffs are super friendly. It has a nice swimming pool and the beach is super clean and peaceful."
Korng Vantha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferries depart from Sihanoukville's Serendipity Pier to Koh Rong Sanloem. The journey typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. Several ferry companies operate these routes, so check schedules and book in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, there are regular ferry services connecting Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. This makes it convenient to visit both islands during your trip.
Buses are the most common way to reach Sihanoukville from Phnom Penh. However, services can be limited and prone to delays. Consider booking tickets in advance.
No, there are no direct flights to Koh Rong Sanloem. You must first travel to Sihanoukville and then take a ferry.
Generally, there are no taxis or tuk-tuks on Koh Rong Sanloem. Most travel between beaches is done by foot or by boat taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry prices can vary, but expect to pay around $20-25 USD for a round trip ticket from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Sanloem. It's advisable to book in advance.
There are typically no specific entrance fees to the island itself, but you will pay for the ferry service to get there.
It's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the dry season or holidays, to secure your spot and avoid last-minute issues.
Ferries usually run multiple times a day, starting in the morning and with the last departures in the afternoon. Check with specific ferry operators for exact timings.
While you can sometimes buy tickets on arrival at the pier, it's safer to book ahead to guarantee your travel plans.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Saracen Bay, Lazy Beach, and Sunset Beach are highly recommended for their beauty and different vibes. Saracen Bay is more developed, while Lazy and Sunset Beaches offer more tranquility.
Internet and mobile signal can be very patchy and unreliable across the island. Many visitors embrace this as a chance to disconnect.
No, there are no ATMs on Koh Rong Sanloem. You must bring sufficient cash (USD is widely accepted) for your entire stay.
Activities include swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, hiking between beaches, and enjoying the stunning sunsets. At night, you can witness bioluminescent plankton.
Yes, the clear waters around Koh Rong Sanloem are excellent for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see various marine life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options range from local Khmer dishes to Western cuisine. Many resorts and beachside restaurants offer fresh seafood. Be prepared for prices to be higher than on the mainland.
Finding very cheap eats can be challenging, as prices are generally higher than on the mainland. Look for local eateries or consider self-catering if your accommodation allows.
Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, and some offer vegan options. It's always good to ask about ingredients.
Expect to pay around $5-10 USD for a simple meal and $10-20+ USD for more elaborate dishes or seafood.
Small shops are available on some of the more developed beaches, but selection is limited. It's best to bring any specific snacks or items you might need.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset Beach and Lazy Beach offer incredible sunset views. The clear waters and white sand beaches are also perfect for capturing tropical paradise shots.
Absolutely, if you catch it at the right time and location. The natural beauty is stunning, but be mindful of ongoing development that might detract from some views.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos. Midday can be harsh.
Drone regulations can be strict in Cambodia. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The bioluminescent plankton at night offers a truly unique and magical photographic opportunity, though it requires specific conditions and equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the journey, as ferry rides can be long for little ones. Also, remember to bring ample cash, as there are no ATMs, and credit card facilities are scarce. The island's developing infrastructure means some paths might be challenging for strollers, so focus on beach-based activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for accommodations that offer basic amenities and are located a short walk from the main tourist hubs. Traveling during the shoulder season might also yield better prices. While the island is beautiful, some budget travelers have noted that Koh Rong offers a slightly better value and more diverse options.
💖 Couples & Romantics
Enjoy leisurely strolls along the pristine beaches, share a cocktail while watching the sunset, or experience the magic of the bioluminescent plankton on a moonless night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Island: Getting Around Koh Rong Sanloem
Boat taxis are essential for reaching more secluded spots or for those who prefer not to hike. These small boats can be hired to ferry you between different bays and beaches. It's a scenic way to see the coastline, but prices can add up, so agree on the fare beforehand.
It's important to note that there are no cars, motorbikes, or traditional taxis on the island. This lack of motorized transport contributes to the peaceful atmosphere but means you need to plan your movements accordingly. Always carry water and wear appropriate footwear for walking, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main beach areas.
The Development Dilemma: Paradise Under Construction
While areas like Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach are often praised for their tranquility and beauty, Saracen Bay has been noted for its abandoned resorts and construction debris.
Despite these challenges, the island's natural beauty, including its clear waters and magical sunsets, still captivates many. The key is to manage expectations and research specific locations before booking to ensure your chosen spot aligns with your desired experience. Some visitors recommend basing yourself on the cleaner, more interesting neighboring island of Koh Rong and visiting Koh Rong Sanloem as a day trip.
Embracing the Bioluminescence: A Nighttime Spectacle
To experience this, you'll need to venture into the water after sunset. Jumping into the dark sea and watching the water light up around you is described as an unforgettable and almost surreal experience.
Remember that the visibility of bioluminescence can depend on various factors, including the moon phase and water conditions. It's a natural wonder that adds an extra layer of enchantment to your island getaway.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit