Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem
Saracen Bay is the most developed of the beaches on Koh Rong Sanloem, with a good selection of rooms, restaurants, and services. The first thing you will see walking over from the Sunrise side is the fish spa, then the solar street lights and coconut decorations on some of the driveways. There are probably close to 20 different places to stay, with the bungalows spreading out in both directions from the main pier area up to the connecting beach to the Sunset side. The water at Saracen Bay is particularly clear, with a reflective turquoise surface that puts many beaches to shame. On any given day, in very little time and with a snorkel, you are likely to see puffer fish, moorish idols, stingrays, clown fish, parrot fish, and at least one bamboo shark. Although the beach itself isn’t that wide, there is a network of trails leading out to the main road that runs between Saracen and Sunset Bays, as well as a few small tracks into the island interior. Locally owned and operated businesses and homes fill the forest of greenery, coconut palms, and tropical flowers that line the beach.
Located in the southeast corner of Koh Rong Sanloem Island in Cambodia is Saracen Bay – a gorgeous 500m stretch of white sand beach boasting the most beautiful spots for a swim around the whole island. Known for its stunning sunsets, calm waters, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend a holiday on the island. Due to the regular day and night boat services from the mainland and island-hopping boats passing by, Saracen Bay is also the busiest part of Koh Rong Sanloem. But don’t let this put you off. Because of its more protected location, Saracen Bay is still relatively peaceful despite the regular comings and goings of boats, and it’s the center of activity and accommodation options on the island to boot. The spots where the boats come in aren’t in your face or particularly obnoxious. They’re generally further down the beach to the north and south of the main pier and completely out of the way for those having a beach day right in the center. It’s the perfect place to do nothing if you’re doing something, and the best place to do something if you’re doing nothing.