When the urban buzz of Phnom Penh starts to wear you down, and the city’s traffic, heat, and concrete blur into monotony, there’s no better antidote than a trip to Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia’s tranquil island paradise. Located just off the coast of Sihanoukville, this peaceful and picturesque island is quickly becoming Southeast Asia’s favorite hidden retreat.
Unlike its sister island Koh Rong, which is known for its parties and nightlife, Koh Rong Samloem offers peace, white sand beaches, and gentle waves lapping under tropical sun. Whether you’re looking for romance, solo adventure, or a digital detox, this island is the perfect escape from the Cambodian capital.
Here are 9 compelling reasons why Koh Rong Samloem is the best getaway from Phnom Penh—plus everything you need to know to plan your trip.
1. Unspoiled Beaches That Feel Like a Private Paradise
The beaches on Koh Rong Samloem are immaculately preserved, with soft white sand and no high-rise hotels in sight. The main beach, Saracen Bay, stretches for over 2 kilometers and is dotted with cozy bungalows, small cafes, and hammocks swaying under palm trees.
Other beaches to explore:
Lazy Beach – a secluded western-side beach perfect for sunsets
Sunset Beach – quiet and scenic, with only a handful of eco-resorts
Sandy Beach – great for swimming and snorkeling with fewer crowds
If you’re tired of Phnom Penh’s dust and crowds, this is your peaceful antidote.
2. Quick and Easy Access from Phnom Penh
In less than 6 hours total travel time, you can go from Phnom Penh’s urban center to a tropical beach hammock. Here’s how:
Bus or taxi from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville (4–5 hours)
Ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem (45 minutes)
Fast ferries run multiple times a day to Saracen Bay, and many hotels offer transfers. With a little planning, you can leave Phnom Penh in the morning and be swimming by the afternoon.
3. Disconnect from the Digital World
One of Koh Rong Samloem’s most endearing features is its lack of widespread Wi-Fi and mobile signal. This is the kind of place where you forget to check your phone, and instead:
Read a book under a palm tree
Meditate to the sound of waves
Fall asleep in a hammock after lunch
Digital detox isn’t just a trend here—it’s a way of life.
4. Eco-Friendly Resorts That Blend with Nature
Accommodations on the island are mostly boutique and eco-conscious, ranging from rustic bungalows to upscale beachside villas. Many places use solar power, composting toilets, and filtered rainwater.
Recommended eco-resorts:
The One Resort – beachfront bungalows with great views
Sol Beach Resort – luxury with sustainability in mind
Sunboo Resort – simple, peaceful, and affordable
These resorts help you experience nature without sacrificing comfort.
5. Snorkeling and Marine Life Galore
The waters surrounding Koh Rong Samloem are teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even occasional sightings of sea turtles. Most resorts offer snorkel rentals or guided tours.
Top snorkeling spots:
Around Sunset Beach – shallow reefs and calm water
Near the northern tip of Saracen Bay – lots of marine diversity
Boat tours to neighboring islands – half or full-day adventures
It’s one of the best budget-friendly ways to explore the sea without diving gear.
6. Mesmerizing Bioluminescent Plankton at Night
One of the island’s most magical experiences is seeing the bioluminescent plankton that glow in the water at night. On moonless evenings, the sea sparkles with tiny blue lights as you swim or splash in the waves.
Where to see them:
Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach are top spots
Ask locals or guides for the best night tour times
You can even take bioluminescent kayaking tours
It’s like swimming through stardust—a memory you won’t soon forget.
7. Stunning Jungle Trails and Island Hikes
Beyond the beaches, Koh Rong Samloem offers beautiful jungle trails that wind through the island’s core. These trails are great for light hiking and birdwatching.
Best hikes include:
Saracen Bay to Lazy Beach – about 20–30 minutes across the island
Jungle trek to the lighthouse – moderate hike with panoramic views
Coastal paths connecting beaches – scenic and often shaded
With no cars or scooters, the island is a haven for walkers and nature lovers.
8. Romantic Sunsets and Peaceful Evenings
Koh Rong Samloem is one of the most romantic islands in Southeast Asia. Picture this:
A sunset cocktail on the beach
Candle-lit dinners under the stars
Falling asleep to the sound of waves
There’s little noise beyond the ocean breeze and an occasional gecko chirp. If you’re traveling as a couple or on a honeymoon, this island offers privacy and intimacy without the tourist chaos of more popular destinations.
9. Authentic Island Culture and Friendly Locals
While development has grown, Koh Rong Samloem still maintains a local island vibe. Fishing villages and local families coexist with tourism. You’ll find:
Small locally-run restaurants
Island-made crafts and coconut-based products
Friendly conversations with resort staff and boat operators
The people here are welcoming, and the pace of life is unhurried and sincere—a refreshing change from Phnom Penh’s fast pace.
Conclusion: Trade Concrete for Coconut Trees
Koh Rong Samloem is more than just a beach destination—it’s a reset button. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or stretching your trip longer, the island offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural charm, and peaceful seclusion.
In just a few hours, you can escape Phnom Penh’s concrete jungle and find yourself surrounded by turquoise waters, tropical breezes, and a simpler way of life.
If you’re planning your next Cambodian adventure, don’t just think about temples and cities—let Koh Rong Samloem be your escape into paradise.
FAQs
1. How do I get from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong Samloem?
Take a bus or taxi (4–5 hours) from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, then catch a ferry to Koh Rong Samloem (about 45 minutes). Book a joint ticket to streamline the journey.
2. Which is better: Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem?
Koh Rong is more developed and known for nightlife. Koh Rong Samloem is quieter, ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking peace and nature.
3. Is Koh Rong Samloem safe for solo travelers?
Yes! The island is safe and welcoming. Most people stay near Saracen Bay, which has plenty of accommodation, food, and walking paths.
4. Are there ATMs or Wi-Fi on the island?
There are no ATMs, so bring enough cash. Wi-Fi is limited and slow, making this an ideal place for a digital detox.
5. What’s the best time to visit Koh Rong Samloem?
The dry season from November to May offers the best weather. Avoid the monsoon months (June to October) if you want sunshine and calm seas.
