Island in Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
Koh Rong Samloem
Smaller, quieter sister to Koh Rong with the long white sweep of Saracen Bay and calm, clear water. Good for slow beach days and snorkeling; power, internet and nightlife are minimal, and health care is far.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$900–1,500Comfortable, one person · $900–1,500Details
- Value for money74/100Better value than 73% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goNov–MarWarmest: May, 30°CDetails
- Internet55 MbpsFixed broadband, Cambodia medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledIsland water is not drinkable; resorts provide bottled or filtered refills.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Getting aroundFerry from SihanoukvilleWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMostly cashNo reliable ATMs; bring dollars from Sihanoukville.Details
Where to stay in Koh Rong Samloem
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Saracen Bay (M'Pai Bay) | Main beach: ferry pier, resorts, a few bars and shops |
| Lazy Beach | Quiet beach with upscale bungalows, boat access |
| Clearwater Bay and Sunset Beach | Snorkeling and tranquil, basic stays |
Apps that work in Koh Rong Samloem
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: Telegram
- Bakong Tourists: Pay KHQR codes with a foreign card
- Taxis: No cars or ride apps. Walk or book a boat through your resort; weather can delay ferries.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Cambodia.
- Mostly cash No reliable ATMs; bring dollars from Sihanoukville. Some resorts take cards with fees, but most small places are cash only.
- Currency: Riels (KHR). US$1 ≈ ៛4,053.39 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATMs dispense US dollars and usually charge foreign cards about $4–6 per withdrawal.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated: round up, $1–2 for tuk-tuk drivers and hotel staff, more for guides.
- Paying by phone: KHQR codes are everywhere; the Bakong Tourists app lets visitors pay them with a foreign card.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Flying in: submit the free Cambodia e-Arrival card at arrival.gov.kh within 7 days before arrival.
- Tourist e-Visa (30 days) at evisa.gov.kh at least 4 days ahead; visa on arrival also exists, paid in US dollars.
- Land crossings with Thailand have been suspended since the 2025 border fighting; Vietnam and Laos crossings work.
Emergency numbers
Police 117 · Ambulance 119 · Fire 118
Plugs
Type A, C, G · 230 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Airport kiosks and phone shops sell tourist packs with large data allowances for about $5–15; passport required. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Cambodia
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.