Ferry to Koh Rong Samloem (23 Village Beach)

As there are no current sailings on this route we cannot show ferry schedules at this present time.

There are no current operators on this route.

The journey to Koh Rong Samloem begins in Sihanoukville, Cambodia's main coastal city, where regular ferry services depart throughout the day to the island. From Phnom Penh, travelers can reach Sihanoukville via a 4-5 hour bus journey, while those coming from Siem Reap can take an overnight bus or a combination of flights and ground transport. Upon arriving in Sihanoukville, tuk-tuks and taxis readily transport visitors from the bus station to the ferry terminal, a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes. For those bringing vehicles, several secure parking facilities are available near the Sihanoukville ferry terminal, though advance booking is recommended during peak season.

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong Samloem's 23 Village Beach offers a pristine escape from the mainland bustle with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tranquil island haven provides the perfect balance of untouched natural beauty and just enough amenities for comfort. As a key ferry destination off Cambodia's coast, 23 Village Beach welcomes travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a setting where time seems to slow down.

Koh Rong Samloem enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures hovering between 25-35°C year-round, making it a potential destination in any season. The ideal time to visit falls between November and April during the dry season when clear skies, calm seas, and optimal ferry conditions create perfect island-hopping weather. February and March offer particularly excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling with high visibility underwater. The rainy season (May to October) brings occasional heavy downpours but also fewer tourists and lush green landscapes, with ferry services operating less frequently but still maintaining daily connections. Consider timing your visit around the full moon for the chance to witness the island's famous bioluminescent plankton phenomenon.

Koh Rong Samloem serves as an excellent jumping-off point to explore Cambodia's island treasures. The larger Koh Rong is just a 20-minute ferry ride away, offering more developed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Koh Ta Kiev, reachable within 45 minutes, presents a truly rustic island experience with bamboo bungalows and pristine, undeveloped beaches perfect for those seeking solitude. For day-trippers, the tiny fishing islands of Koh Koun and Koh Russei (Bamboo Island) can be reached in under an hour, featuring secluded beaches and authentic local fishing communities. The journey between these islands treats passengers to stunning views of Cambodia's azure coastline, with opportunities to spot dolphins during the right season.

The waters surrounding 23 Village Beach offer some of Cambodia's finest snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life just offshore. Hiking trails crisscross the island's interior, leading to hidden beaches and the iconic Koh Rong Samloem Lighthouse, which rewards climbers with panoramic views across the Gulf of Thailand. Seafood enthusiasts will relish the fresh catch prepared daily in local style at the beachfront restaurants, where Kampot pepper crab and grilled barracuda have become specialties. M'Pai Bay village provides a glimpse into local island life, with friendly residents and colorful fishing boats creating a photographer's dream. As night falls, join a guided tour to witness the magical bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the shoreline with an ethereal blue glow.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong Samloem still operates without mains electricity on much of the island, with most accommodations running on generators that operate only during certain hours, creating a truly off-grid experience. The name '23 Village Beach' originates from a small fishing community that once consisted of exactly 23 families who established the first settlement on this stretch of shoreline. Marine conservation efforts around the island have established Cambodia's first marine reserve, protecting endangered seahorses that can be spotted during careful snorkeling expeditions. The island briefly served as a filming location for the French version of 'Survivor' (Koh-Lanta), bringing it international attention before it became a regular stop on the Southeast Asian ferry circuit.