Koh Rong
Sanleom
Koh Rong Sanloem, also often spelt Samloem, is one of the islands just off the coast of Sihanoukville. It looks gorgeous and I am looking forward to exploring the island and relaxing in February 2020.
Other nearby islands not covered on this website are: Koh Rong - a popular party island and Koh Ta Kiev (just off the coast of Ream National Park) a much smaller lesser-known island.
Learn About Koh Rong Sanloem
- Ministry of Tourism Cambodia - Koh Rong Sanloem Travel Guide
- Move to Cambodia: About Koh Rong Sanloem
- Visit Koh Rong Sanloem: Offical Travel Guide
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Wikipedia: Koh Rong Sanloem - Geography, Settlements & infrastructure, Tourism, Wildlife.
- ​Wikivoyage: Koh Rong Sanloem - Understand, Get In, Get Around, See, Do Buy, Eat, Drink, Sleep, Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Connect, Go Next
Finding social enterprises
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Maybe I'll find some when I visit :)
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I was unable to find accommodation that is 100% Khmer owned or a social enterprise on the Internet, but I did find a couple of places that are part Khmer owned or environmentally friendly and committed to supporting local people. ​
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Lazy Beach - One of the owners and his wife are Khmer and they have had the same local staff for many years. A recommendation from an expat living in Cambodia "The bungalows are simple and have no aircon, but it has the best beach and is never crowded. One of the owners invited us to have a couple of drinks with him and the staff. It was a good vibe and the people seem to be happy. My wife is Khmer and she got the same feeling, after talking with the Khmer employees. To visit other restaurants you have to walk to Saracen Bay, a 25 minutes walk. Do not forget to use the safety box in the room, as the bungalows are not safe". Thank you Reto :)
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Mad Monkey Backpacker Hostel - This is an international franchise company, that values fair employment and actively supports their staff and local communities. They support many projects throughout Cambodia and you will see on their website that one of the activities available to guests at their Koh Rong Samleom hostel is a "Beach cleanup".
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Sunboo Beach Bungalows (Sunset Beach) - They advertise "Authentic luxury for those seeking tranquillity, nature lovers and flashpackers". They clearly outline their "organic economic model" and their commitment to protecting the environment and their social responsibility to the local people.
We particularly want an air-conditioned room, not too remote from the main village on Saracen Bay as we only have 2 nights/ 1 full day on the island. So we are being a bit irresponsible and soak up a bit of luxury. We are staying at the Pearl Resort, a located on the east end of Saracen beach. It is a 6-minute boat ride from the main jetty (transfers included). It has 15 air-conditioned bungalows built into the hillside and surrounded by lush gardens. It has a private beach, an infinity pool, and offers a variety of water activities.
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I will update this section after we have visited the island.
I will update this section after we have visited the island.
I will update this section after we have visited the island
Transportation options include: Tuk tuk (Remork moto), Cyclo, Bus, Taxi and Train (very limited).
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For travel to/from Sihanoukville and other provinces, the most economical mode of transport is by bus or mini-van. There are many bus companies, private taxis and mini-van operators in Cambodia. However, it is difficult to determine who owns the large bus companies, and how safe the locally owned transport operators are. Road safety is an issue in Cambodia so I looked at recommendations from other tourists and ex-pats to help me decide whom to use. ​
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For short journeys (e.g. Kampot to Sihanoukville - 2 hours), or if you are travelling with a small group of people, a private taxi may be a good option as you can share the cost.
From Sihanoukville you take a ferry or private boat to Koh Rong Sanloem island (approx. 45-60 minutes). There are a number of ferry operators and which one you use may depend on where you are staying on the island.
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If you want to book your transport in advance, the easiest way to do it is online:
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Their are no cars or taxi's on the island, but many of the hotels/hostels etc. provide pick up services. Check with your hotel.
