For those of you staying on Saracen Bay, the main tourist beach on Koh Rong Samloem, here are 5 food and drinks that you simply must try…
(See also: Attractions and Activities on Koh Rong Samloem)
Aerial View of Saracen Bay on Koh Rong Samloem
1) Fish Amok – Sol Beach Resort
At number one is quite possibly the best Fish Amok that I have had in Cambodia, let alone the islands. It really is that special, and I have had a lot of Fish Amoks in my time (my Khmer wife agrees with me, and she too loves this classic Cambodian dish).
You can find it at the fantastic Sol Beach resort – Located near the centre of the bay. Even if you’re not staying here, pop in and try it one night. They also have a fantastic selection of wines to accompany the meal, so you’re in for a superb overall dining experience.
2) Pizza – Moonlight Resort
At number two is the outstanding pizza you can find at the very quirky Moonlight Resort, right next to Sol Beach above. Of all the pizza’s I have ever had on Samloem, Moonlight’s is by far the best – Thin crispy base, thick rich toppings, and a nice cheesy texture. What’s more, Moonlight is the only place on Samloem that serves white wine at the perfect temperature, so it’s worth a visit if only for that alone!
3) Cocktails – The One Resort
At number three are the cocktails at the much recommended The One resort. The One (next to Moonlight) is the only resort on Samloem with a swimming pool. At night times, the pool is lit up, and the background ocean scenery is splendid. Although the cocktails themselves probably won’t blow you away, the mesmerising setting certainly will!
4) Crab & Papaya Salad – Saracen Bay Resort
At number 4 is the delicious Crab & Papaya salad at the fabulous Saracen Bay resort. Saracen bay resort is very close to the main pier (head left for 5 min as you get off the boat), and its restaurant is on a pier of its own. As such, you can enjoy your tasty meal overlooking the glorious sparkling ocean waters directly beneath.
Now, the Crab & Papaya salad I recommend here won’t be to everyone’s taste, but if you’re open minded and want to try something different, this is definitely the dish for you!
5) Beer – Waterfall (Freedom Island Resort)
If you’re visiting Samloem either side of the rainy season, you should plan to see the wonderful waterfall on the far side of the island (head right as you get off the ferry – It’s a part of Freedom Island resort). Beside the pool at the bottom of the waterfall is a little bar area, and there really is nothing better than relaxing in the refreshing jungle waters with a cold drink. Here I’ve chosen beer, but it’s really up to you how you want to enjoy this phenomenal setting.
FAQs
- Q: When is the best time to visit Saracen Bay?
- Q: How do I get to Saracen Bay?
- Q: What activities are there?
- Q: Where can I see the glowing plankton?
- Q: What should I bring with me?
- Q: Is it easy to get a Cambodian Visa?
- Q: Is there an ATM on Saracen Bay?
- Q: Is there a medical facility?
- Q: Is it a family-friendly place?
- Q: When is the rainy season?
Middle of November / December / January / February: Warm and dry. 25°C daytime.
March / April / May: Hot and dry. 35°C daytime.
June / July / August: Hot and wet. 35°C daytime.
September / October / Early November: Warm and wet. 25°C daytime.
Please see our Weather Guide for more information.
It will take about 40 minutes to get to Saracen Bay if it’s the first stop. If the boat first stops elsewhere, it may take 1 hour or so.
All 5 services will charge roughly $25 return, though prices can vary depending on time of year, special offers, etc. All services leave from the Ochheuteal (AKA ‘Serendipity’) pier in Sihanoukville.
The 5 services offer modern speed boats with comfortable chairs, life jackets, and the option to buy food and drink on board. Not all of the ferries have air-conditioning, but once the boats set off there is a strong cool breeze throughout the sitting areas which more than makes up for it.
All ferry services tend to be very busy – we strongly recommend you buy your tickets in advance. You can buy your tickets online now here: Book Ferry Tickets Online Now
The Koh Rong islands are known for their stunning underwater panorama. Whether it’s snorkeling or scuba diving that you’re after, there are plenty of superb locations on Koh Rong Samloem.
Kayaking & Paddle Boarding
Enjoy the crystal clear ocean waters by Kayaking or paddle boarding your way around – An ideal activity for couples and families alike.
Jungle Trekking
Explore the exotic jungle habitat by foot. If you’re staying on Saracen Bay, we would definitely recommend for you to see Lazy Beach – A 40 minute walk through the jungle trail.
Bioluminescent Plankton
Sparkling like a starry sky all around you, the bioluminescent plankton are a wonderful sight to behold at night times. Please speak to your hotel about booking a plankton tour.
If you’re staying on Saracen Bay, the easiest way for you to see the plankton is by booking a boat tour.
For more information, please read: Glowing Plankton on Koh Rong
You can however get cash out at any of the three Eftpos terminals on Koh Touch (the main tourist area on Koh Rong Island). There is an Eftpos terminal at Green Ocean Guesthouse, White Rose Guesthouse, and Koh Lanta.
For example, those that visit during the rainy season get to enjoy half-priced accommodation and beautiful rainy scenes, and because it never gets too cold in Cambodia, swimming in the ocean is still a very pleasurable experience (the water rarely drops beneath 25°C). Take a look at this article for more information: 5 Reasons to Visit Saracen Bay in Rainy Season
Comments
Paul
What are some places for cheap food on Koh Rong Samloem?
Visit Koh Rong
Hi Paul, please take a look here for some info: https://www.visitkohrong.com/5-best-food-and-drink-on-saracen-bay/
Donna Stevenson
Hi, thanks for this fabulous guide. My husband and I are visiting there in November of this year, staying at The One Resort.
Could you please tell me what we would be looking at in terms of costs of food and drink on the island? Just so we know how much money to take with us as there are obviously no ATM’s on the island. We’d also like to do a few boat trips. How much are the cocktails and beers, and an average for a meal? I can’t seem to find any costings anywhere else so your help would be grateful appreciated!! 🙂
Visit Koh Rong
Hi Donna,
You’ll be looking to pay around $7 / meal on average, $1.50 for a beer, $5+ for cocktails, and $5+ for a glass of wine. Prices tend to vary across the resorts, but in the area of the bay where you’re staying this will be roughly what to expect. Just as a heads up – A few resorts take card now, so that’s also an option. If you’re going to Koh Rong at any point, there’s now an ATM there (on the main tourist area Koh Touch). Let us know if you have any other questions!