Koh Rong Samloem, a secluded gem southwest of Cambodia, beckons travelers with its pristine beaches and dense jungles. Accessible only by ferry from Sihanoukville, this island offers a serene escape from the bustle of mainland life.
The shimmering waters and silky sands of Lazy Beach, acclaimed by National Geographic, promise tranquil sun-soaked days ideal for snorkeling.
Mai Bay, once a quiet fishing village, now attracts backpackers seeking relaxation amid clear blue waters and local cuisine. Saracen Bay Beach, the main tourist hub, boasts white sands framed by turquoise waters and lush tropical wilderness, perfect for witnessing stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Beyond beaches, adventurous souls can trek to Koh Rong Samloem Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views. Culinary delights like Amok and Bok Trop Phnon await, offering a taste of authentic Cambodian flavors.
Explore Koh Rong Samloem:
Koh Rong Samloem lies within a cluster of islands approximately 23 km southwest of Cambodia. This island has no airport and roads, so the only way to reach here is by taking a ferry from Sihanoukville.
Koh Rong Samloem is very famous among tourists because of its serene beaches and dense jungles. Koh Rong offers some of the best spots to enjoy sunrises and sunsets. Here you can also enjoy various water sports, the most popular are snorkelling and swimming in crystal clear water.
As the sun falls the beaches transform into party spots. You will find plenty of resorts along the beachside where you can enjoy night parties till the sun rises.
Things to do in Koh Rong Samloem:
1. Lazy Beach:
This is one of the best beaches in Koh Rong Samloem. National Geographic also listed this beach among the “Top 21 Beaches in The World.” This beach has silky smooth sand, water glistening in the sun, and the surrounding mountains offer amazing views.
You can also enjoy snorkelling here. Bring all the necessary stuff with you as there are no shops or facilities on the side of the island. Entry to this beach is free.
2. Mai Bay:
Mai Bay was once a quiet fishing village that has turned into a backpacking travelling destination in just the last few years. This is a perfect place to relax on the smooth sands near the clear blue water.
You will find a few M’Pai restaurants where you will find everything from Cambodian dishes to Turkish food. About 45 minutes walk away you will find another spot called “Clearwater Bay”, where you can spend the day swimming and snorkelling.
3. Saracen Bay Beach:
Saracen Bay Beach is the main tourist beach at Koh Rong Somloem. It is a peaceful destination with very little nightlife. You will find plenty of shops and restaurants nearby the beach.
This beach has pristine white sand, turquoise ocean water and is surrounded by dense tropical jungle wilderness. This is also a perfect spot to enjoy the sunrises and sunsets.
4. Koh Rong Samloem LightHouse:
If you feel bored of the stunning beaches of Koh Rong Samloem, then head to the interior of the island. You will find a few different trails on which you can explore other parts of Samloem.
A popular trek is hiking from Samloem Bay to the Samloem lighthouse. The trek will complete in about 4 hours but the reward is stunning views from the lighthouse. Make sure you complete your trek within the daytime as it gets confusing once it gets dark.
Food to try in Koh Rong Samloem:
1. Amok:
It is one of the best-known Cambodian dishes. The addition of slok ngor, which imparts a bitter taste to the dish makes it unique from the similar dishes served in the neighbouring countries.
The curry is prepared with fresh coconut milk and kroeung. Traditionally this dish was made with fish or snails. It is served with boiled salted rice.
2. Bok Trop Phnon:
It is a pounded eggplant dip. It is a kind of food preparation that involves pounding ingredients in a large wooden mortar. The main ingredient of this dish is bitter pea eggplants.
They are grilled and pounded with garlic, shallots, chillies, and sugar. Fish is added to the mixture and served alongside steamed vegetable crudites.
How to reach Koh Rong Samloem:
1. By flight:
To reach Koh Rong Samloem by flight you have to take a flight to Sihanoukville. From Sihanoukville, you can take a ferry to reach Kon Rong Samloem.
The journey will cost you about $22-$25
2. By ferry:
Kon Rong Samloem is very accessible through the town of Sihanoukville. On this route, you will find five major boat operators- Speed Boar Cambodia, Island Speed Boat, Buva Sea, Angkor Speed Ferry, and GTVC.
The boat ride will take about 40 minutes. The ride will cost you about 25$. You can also take slower ferries that will take 2 hours to complete the journey and will cost you about 5$-10$.
