Paradise Villas is a well-established, eco-friendly resort located on the peaceful northern end of Saracen Bay. Known for its traditional Khmer-style architecture and commitment to sustainability, it offers a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature without sacrificing the comforts of a private villa.
Why Stay:
- Eco-Conscious Privacy: One of the original resorts on the island, featuring detached villas spread out to ensure maximum privacy and a low impact on the surrounding jungle.
- Authentic Khmer Design: Beautifully crafted wooden bungalows with thatched roofs that offer an authentic Cambodian island aesthetic.
- Quiet Beachfront: Located at the far end of the bay, away from the noisier hostels, offering a more serene and exclusive beach experience.
- Nature Integration: The resort is integrated into the natural landscape, often visited by local hornbills and other tropical wildlife.
Accommodation type:
- Beachfront Villas: Private wooden bungalows located directly on the sand with unobstructed ocean views.
- Garden Villas: Tucked slightly back into the lush tropical greenery for a cooler, more secluded jungle feel.
- Family Villas: Larger units designed with extra space and bedding to accommodate families or groups.
Dining options:
- The Beachfront Restaurant: An open-air pavilion serving a mix of traditional Khmer cuisine and Western dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Sunset Bar: A relaxed spot for enjoying a sundowner cocktail or a fresh fruit shake right by the water.
- Fresh Seafood: Often features daily specials based on the local catch from the village of M’Pai Bay.
Visitor tips:
- Walk the Bay: Being at the end of the bay, it’s a lovely 15-20 minute stroll along the shore to reach the main village and other dining spots.
- Bring a Flashlight: The path back to the resort at night is dark; a torch or phone light is essential for navigating the beach.
- Cash Only: Like most of the island, ensure you have sufficient USD or Riel as there are no ATMs on Koh Rong Sanloem.
Services:
- Ferry Coordination: Assistance with booking and confirming speed ferry tickets back to Sihanoukville.
- Tour Booking: Helpful staff can arrange snorkeling, fishing trips, and treks across the island.
- Boat Transfers: Coordination of longtail boat taxis for exploring other parts of the island.
Facilities:
- Private Beach Area: A quiet stretch of sand equipped with comfortable sun loungers and hammocks.
- Library & Lounge: A common area with books and games for a relaxed afternoon.
- Yoga Space: Areas suitable for personal meditation or morning yoga overlooking the sea.
Amenities:
- Fans & Natural Ventilation: Villas are designed to be breezy and are equipped with fans (no air conditioning, in line with their eco-policy).
- Private Bathrooms: Each villa features an en-suite bathroom, often with semi-open designs for a tropical feel.
- Mosquito Nets: High-quality nets provided for all beds.
Nearby attractions:
- Saracen Bay: Immediate access to the calmest and clearest waters on the island.
- Lighthouse Trek: A popular hiking trail starts nearby, leading up to the historic island lighthouse for panoramic views.
- Coral Gardens: Excellent snorkeling spots are located just a short boat ride from the resort’s shore.
Paradise Villas offers a rustic and soulful island experience, perfect for those who want to escape the modern world and stay in a traditional, eco-friendly setting on one of Cambodia’s most beautiful bays.
