Here's the Ultimate Guide to Cambodia’s Islands, For an Off-Grid Summer Escape

WHETHER YOU’RE CRAVING a party on the beach, solace on sweeping stretches of white sand, the privacy of an infinity pool perched over the ocean, or a back-to-basics Robinson Crusoe experience, Cambodia’s islands have got it all.  

While the coastal city of Sihanoukville—the gateway to the islands—has transformed into a rather built-up urban beach in recent years, a few gems remain. The beaches, for one, have been cleared up, and it’s relatively easy to find a lone spot. Major hotel players, such as Novotel, have also started opening their doors, meaning you can enjoy a stylish stay in the city before making your escape to the islands. 

Another boon: the opening of the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway has cut down travel time from the capital from six hours to two (more or less). This means you can skip overnighting in Sihanoukville, jump straight on a speed boat and be chilling with your feet dipped in warm waters within an hour of hopping out of the car.

Where to go? Here’s our definitive guide to Cambodia’s islands.

Koh Rong

Not too long ago, Cambodia’s largest island was completely jungle-clad, and rimmed by 53 kilometers of shimmering sands, where you’d find a handful of villages and basic beach resorts. While today, it’s Cambodia’s most developed island, it’s far from reaching Phuket or Phu Quoc levels of tourism. In fact, the shores of Koh Tuch village, which first drew in the backpacker crowd, are still where the party action can be found, but there are plenty more spots around the islands to escape in style.  

We recommend Sok San Beach, on the west of the island, a stunning seven-kilometer stretch of almost empty, blindingly beautiful sands. Sok San Beach Resort, which hosted reality TV show ‘Survivor’, is a great place to stay, with charming wooden villas facing twinkling turquoise waters. Alternatively, the island’s first five-star resort—Royal Sands Koh Rong—and its collection of private villas is so sublime, you’ll never want or need to leave.

Koh Rong Samloem

This patch of tropical paradise neighbors Koh Rong and holds the title of its quieter sister. Here, you’ll find a bounty of untouched beaches that you can have all to yourself. The main village is M’Pai Bay—and the only spot on the island where you’ll find semi-paved roads, so to access the rest of the island, hire a fishing boat or trek through its jungle interior.  

M’Pai Bay is a backpacker enclave, home to several guesthouses and spots to eat and drink. On the west of the island sit Lazy and Sunset beaches, with Lazy Beach home to a resort of the same name that ticks all the boxes for couples and families wanting to experience deserted-island life. T+L tip: For a truly magical experience, take a nighttime dip here to swim among bioluminescent plankton.

Song Saa Private Island

If an ultra-glam island getaway sounds up your alley, then lap up the barefoot luxury of Song Saa Private Island. With sustainability at its core, the island is speckled with a handful of divine wooden villas with private pools, various wholesome eating and drinking spots, and a spa. If you really want to splash out, check into the Royal Villa, which really does seem fit for royalty. Perched over the sea, it boasts two bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a private pool and deck. 

There’s plenty to do here to drag you away from your villa: kayaking, island safaris, yoga, snorkeling and scuba diving, traditional Buddhist blessings, and seaside mediation. There’s also the chance to learn about Song Saa Foundation’s cool conservation work to preserve and support the surrounding marine national park and the people who call it home. We love that Song Saa is all inclusive, so you really can indulge.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT VIA AGODA.COM

BOOK YOUR STAY AT SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT VIA BOOKING.COM

Koh Ta Kiev

If it’s a back-to-basics true deserted island experience you’re after, then rustic Koh Ta Kiev is for you. It’s the perfect spot to totally switch off: Koh Ta Kiev’s remoteness means no ATMs, no WiFi, and no real stores, so make sure you’re prepared. Also, don’t expect any fancy resorts, restaurants or bars because that’s not down with the island’s vibe. Here, it’s all about truly getting away from it all.  

If you don’t fancy camping on the beach, then there’s a handful of guesthouse-style accommodations slap-bang on the beach. Kactus Resort has a range of tents up to spacious bungalows, a treetop bar and restaurant serving Western and Cambodian dishes. It also offers boat transportation ($15 return) from Ream Beach in Sihanoukville, which takes about 1.5 hours. If an overnight stay isn’t for you, it’s easy enough to take a day trip from the mainland. 

BOOK YOUR STAY AT KACTUS RESORT VIA AGODA.COM

BOOK YOUR STAY AT KACTUS RESORT VIA BOOKING.COM

Getting around

From Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, five companies operate speed ferries from 7.30am to 5pm. The majority sail between the mainland, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, taking about 45 minutes to one hour. Tickets cost $14 (single) and $25 (return). Song Saa operates a private speedboat from Sihanoukville International Port. The easiest way to get to Koh Ta Kiev is via one of the resort’s longtail boats, which leave from Otres Beach on the mainland. 

Lede and hero image courtesy of Song Saa Private Island.

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