Secret Spots in Koh Rong Samloem (Better Than Thailand)

Saracen Bay is the island’s main beach, but if you head just 15 minutes south on foot from Saracen Pier, you’ll reach the little-known Secret Point—a secluded stretch of white sand where the water is glass-clear and the crowds vanish.

You’ll find beachfront bungalows starting at $30/night, along with small cafés grilling fresh seafood over charcoal for around $5 per plate. It’s also one of the best places to watch sunrise on the island—totally quiet, with just the sound of waves and birdsong.

Visit between November and April for dry weather, calm seas, and a near-empty beach. If you want to experience the magic of Saracen Bay without the tourist buzz, Secret Point is the best-kept secret around.

Hidden on the opposite side of the island, Lazy Beach lives up to its name. It takes about 20–30 minutes via jungle path or a quick boat ride, and most tourists never make the effort—which means you’ll often have the beach to yourself.

The sand here is golden and soft, the water calm and perfect for swimming. Private bungalows go for $35/night, and you can grab fresh coconuts for $2 while lounging in a hammock. Come at sunset for jaw-dropping views that beat anything you’ll find in Thailand.

This beach is ideal for couples or solo travelers who want to unplug, recharge, and watch the light fade with their toes in the sand.

Just when you think Koh Rong Samloem can’t get any better, you discover Clear Water Bay—a hidden cove with some of the purest, bluest water you’ll ever see. It's not easily accessible by foot, but local boats will drop you off for just $5.

There are simple beachfront campsites for $20, or you can just bring a towel and enjoy the pristine setting for the day. Snorkeling here is excellent—coral reefs sit just offshore, and you’ll likely see colorful fish within minutes of entering the water.

No bars, no resorts, no crowds—just ocean, reef, and sand. Bring your own snacks and snorkel gear for the ultimate off-grid day trip.

Most visitors stick to the resort beaches, but if you want an authentic slice of Cambodian island life, head to the hidden cove near M’Pai Bay, where a working fishing village meets crystal-clear coastline.

In the early morning, you can watch the local fishermen set off, then enjoy the freshest grilled seafood breakfast on the island—typically around $5. Midday boat trips around the bay are available for $10, and the area is perfect for wandering, photography, and connecting with locals.

Unlike the polished tourist areas, this part of the island feels real. You’ll find hammocks under palm trees, kids playing in the shallows, and no inflated prices or plastic menus.

If you want to end your day somewhere truly unforgettable, make your way to Sunset Beach on the island’s west side. It’s accessible via a local boat for $8, or through a scenic 30-minute jungle walk from Saracen Bay.

Here, the sun melts into the ocean with no buildings in sight, and the beach often feels like your private stretch of paradise. There are a few simple bungalows and eco-lodges nearby, but it’s mostly undeveloped—just how nature intended.

Bring a towel, snorkel mask, and a cold drink, and you’ve got the perfect ingredients for sunset perfection.

In a region dominated by crowded Thai beaches and overpriced resorts, Koh Rong Samloem remains a rare gem. For a quarter of the price, you can enjoy world-class scenery, quiet coves, and authentic experiences that many travelers never find.

Whether you’re watching sunrise at Secret Point or snorkeling in Clear Water Bay, each of these five secret spots offers a peaceful, unforgettable escape from the tourist trail. If you're planning your Southeast Asia trip in 2025, skip the crowd and discover Cambodia’s best-kept island secret.