Koh Rong Sanloem: The Quieter Neighbor
Last fact-checked: September 2026
Koh Rong Sanloem lies just south of Koh Rong and is about a third of its size. It has no big road network and far fewer visitors, and life here revolves around a few beautiful bays. It is part of the Koh Rong Marine National Park, created in 2018. Note that the name is often also written Koh Rong Samloem.
Main Bays and Beaches
- Saracen Bay: The main tourist area: a crescent-shaped bay about 3 km long with white sand and calm water, lined with resorts and restaurants.
- M'Pai Bay: The island's village in the north, with a small fishing community and a relaxed backpacker scene. The sand here is more yellowish.
- Lazy Beach: A quiet beach on the west coast, about a 40-minute jungle walk from Saracen Bay, known for its sunsets.
- Sunset Beach: Also on the west coast, popular for snorkeling and diving.
Things to Do
- Waterfall: At the far end of Saracen Bay there is a small jungle waterfall with a pool, which often dries up in the middle of the dry season.
- Lighthouse walk: A longer walk to the lighthouse rewards you with wide views over the sea and the islands.
- Snorkeling and diving: There is a dive center in Saracen Bay, and the west coast around Sunset Beach has good snorkeling spots.
- Boat tours: Tours around the island stop at beaches and snorkeling spots, and evening tours include a swim with the glowing plankton.
Practical Tips
There are no ATMs on the island, so bring enough US dollars in cash. Resorts used to rely on generators and solar power; since April 2026 the island has been connected to the national grid via a new line from Koh Rong, but short outages can still happen. Paths are mostly sandy, so you get around on foot or by boat taxi.
Getting There
Speed ferries from the Sihanoukville Tourist Port take about 40 minutes to Saracen Bay; a return ticket costs around $25. From Koh Rong it is 15-45 minutes by fast ferry (from about $9) or boat taxi (from about $5). Ferry guide
Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem? See our comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Koh Rong Sanloem?
By speed ferry from the Sihanoukville Tourist Port (about 40 minutes) or from Koh Rong (15-45 minutes).
Are there ATMs on Koh Rong Sanloem?
No. Bring enough US dollars in cash from Sihanoukville.
What is the best beach on Koh Rong Sanloem?
Saracen Bay is the most popular and has the most facilities, while Lazy Beach on the west coast is quieter and known for its sunsets.