The Island for Those Who Want to Disappear
If Koh Rong is Cambodia's party island, Koh Rong Samloem is its quieter, more beautiful sister. Just a short boat ride away, Samloem feels like a different world — fewer tourists, cleaner beaches, and an atmosphere of complete tranquility.
This small island covers about 25 square kilometres, with most of its interior still covered in dense tropical jungle. The coastline alternates between pristine white sand beaches and rocky headlands, with some of the clearest water in the region.
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The Beaches
Saracen Bay
The main bay on the eastern side of the island — a long, gently curving beach of white sand with warm, calm water. Perfect for swimming at any time of day. Most guesthouses and restaurants are clustered here.
M'Pai Bay (Fishermen's Village)
The small fishing village on the northern tip of the island. Authentic, quiet, and home to a small community of local fishermen. A great place to eat incredibly fresh seafood directly from the boats.
Lazy Beach
On the western coast — accessible by boat or a jungle hike across the island. Spectacular sunsets and a beautiful stretch of sand with only a handful of bungalows.
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Marine Life and Diving
Koh Rong Samloem is surrounded by some of Cambodia's best diving and snorkelling spots. The reefs here are healthier than most in the region, with good visibility and a rich variety of marine life:
Reef fish of all colours and sizes
Sea turtles — spotted regularly around the island
Blacktip reef sharks — harmless and impressive
Octopus, moray eels, and rays
Several dive shops on the island offer courses and guided dives at very reasonable prices compared to Thailand.
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Things to Do
Snorkelling — bring your own mask or rent from guesthouses
Jungle hiking — trails cross the island; hire a local guide for the best experience
Kayaking — explore the coastline at your own pace
Hammock time — sometimes doing nothing is the whole point
Bioluminescent night swim — like Koh Rong, Samloem has spectacular plankton displays
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Practical Information
Getting there: Ferries from Sihanoukville (about 1 hour). Also accessible from Koh Rong by water taxi.
Accommodation: Mostly eco-bungalows and small guesthouses. Book ahead in high season.
Food: Fresh seafood, simple Khmer dishes, and Western comfort food.
Cash: Bring enough — no ATMs on the island.
Best time: November to April.
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The Mindset for Samloem
Koh Rong Samloem requires a different pace. There is no nightlife, no shopping mall, no fast food. What it offers instead is something increasingly rare: genuine silence, stunning natural beauty, and the simple pleasure of being completely present.
Leave your schedule behind and let the island set the rhythm.
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Shop Cambodia Before You Go
If you're passing through Phnom Penh or Siem Reap on your way to the islands, stop at Kabas Concept Store to discover the best of Cambodia's local brands.
From handcrafted jewellery and silk scarves to Kampot pepper and artisanal teas — everything at Kabas is made in Cambodia, curated with care, and shipped worldwide.
Phnom Penh: #65 Street 178 | Siem Reap: 200 Pokambor Ave | Online: kabasconceptstore.com
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Some places make you better at doing nothing. Koh Rong Samloem is one of them — and that is a very valuable thing.