Where to stay on Koh Rong Sanloem

Koh Rong Sanloem lies just south of Koh Rong, a short boat ride from Sihanoukville. It's smaller and generally calmer than its neighbour, with no big party scene, and most of its hotels and bungalows face a single, long, shallow bay.

It's a good choice for couples and families who want clear water and easy days, and for travellers who want a village feel without the crowds.

Getting there
Speedboats from Sihanoukville, often under an hour
Main bays
Saracen Bay (east) and M'Pai Bay (north)
Around the island
Mostly on foot, by boat or along a few rough tracks
Money
Bring cash; card payments and ATMs are limited

Places to stay in Koh Rong Sanloem

3 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Koh Rong Sanloem, area by area

Choose between the island's two main areas: the resort-lined Saracen Bay or the village at M'Pai Bay.

Saracen Bay

Best for calm swimming and couples

Saracen Bay is a crescent of white sand on the east coast, with gentle, shallow water that's ideal for swimming. Resorts, bungalows and beach restaurants line the shore, and most ferries stop at piers along the bay. Paths lead over the hill to Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach on the west side.

M'Pai Bay

Best for village life and snorkelling

At the north tip, M'Pai Bay is a fishing village with guesthouses, small cafés and dive operators. It has a laid-back, sociable feel, snorkelling just offshore and walks to wilder beaches nearby.

Getting there and around

Speedboats from Sihanoukville stop at Saracen Bay and M'Pai Bay, and some continue to Koh Rong, which makes it easy to combine the two islands. On the island, most people walk between beaches or take a boat, as the tracks are rough.

Things to do

Days here revolve around swimming, kayaking and snorkelling, with diving trips from M'Pai Bay and plankton swims after dark. Hikes cross the forested interior to quieter beaches, and the sunsets on the west coast are worth the walk.

When to go

The drier months, roughly November to April, bring calmer seas, clearer water for snorkelling and more reliable boat schedules. The rainy season, from around May to October, is greener and quieter, with lower prices at many places, but crossings can be rough and some smaller bungalows close for part of it.

Practical tips for island life

Life on Koh Rong Sanloem is simple. Some places rely on solar panels or generators, so power and hot water may only run at certain hours, and Wi-Fi tends to be slow. Bring enough US dollars or riel for your stay, as cards aren't always accepted and there may be no working cash machine on the island.

A torch is handy for walking between beaches after dark, and reef-safe sun cream helps protect the coral you came to see. If you have an onward flight, allow a spare day in case bad weather cancels a boat.

Combining Koh Rong Sanloem with Koh Rong

Because some speedboats link the two islands, many travellers split their stay: a few lively nights on Koh Rong's Koh Toch beach, then a slower few days on Saracen Bay or in M'Pai Bay. See our Koh Rong guide for places to stay on the bigger island.

Questions about staying in Koh Rong Sanloem

Is Koh Rong Sanloem quieter than Koh Rong?

Yes, generally. It has no big party beach, and most stays are relaxed beach resorts or village guesthouses.

Saracen Bay or M'Pai Bay?

Saracen Bay suits couples and families after calm, shallow swimming. M'Pai Bay has more of a village and backpacker feel, with snorkelling nearby.

How do I get to Koh Rong Sanloem?

By speedboat from Sihanoukville; journeys are often under an hour. Some boats also link it with Koh Rong.

Is there electricity and Wi-Fi?

Usually, but it can be limited. Some places run on solar power or generators for set hours, and the internet is often slow, so check with the partner if you need to stay connected.

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