Koh Rong Sanloem: The Hidden Gem That Won't Stay Hidden

You'll hear plenty about the beauty of the Thai islands. I'm here to tell you not to bypass Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem on your way there. This was one of the highlights of my entire trip, and certainly the most beautiful tropical paradise I have ever seen in my life. Koh Rong is bigger, more popular, and better equipped with amenities. Koh Rong Sanloem is quieter, more laid-back, and more authentic — I can all but guarantee this hidden gem will not stay so hidden in five years, especially once the airport they're building opens.

I got there the way most people do: a wrong turn in Phnom Penh, a 45-minute walk in the opposite direction, a TukTuk back to where I started, then a van to the coast. I arrived in a decrepit coastal town at 11pm, got into a TukTuk fully expecting to be kidnapped, and instead pulled up to a hostel so nice I nearly laughed with relief.

The next morning was a ferry to the island itself, and paradise, more or less immediately. I walked the beach, explored the village, made friends I'd still be talking to weeks later. We ate, drank, gazed at the stars, and waded into the water at night to watch the bioluminescent plankton light up around our ankles.

M'Pai Bay is a small fishing village turned hidden tourist gem, and I spent three days there that could have easily stretched into two weeks. Maybe it was the slow, relaxed island-time pace. Maybe it was the wonderful people. Maybe it was just being able to walk around with my shirt off and drink a beer whenever I felt like it. Whatever it was, I met people who'd already done the Thai islands, and every one of them told me these islands were better than anything else they'd experienced.

There are luxury resorts and humble homestays alike, even in a village as small as M'Pai Bay, so you have options no matter your budget. Ferries make getting between island towns simple, there's no shortage of tours and activities, and the beaches are as pristine as advertised. Go now. I don't think this one stays a secret much longer.