Koh Rong Sanloem Lighthouse
Hike through lush jungle to a rustic lighthouse offering breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Rong Sanloem's turquoise waters and green landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Koh Rong Sanloem Lighthouse
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through lush jungle to a rustic lighthouse offering breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Rong Sanloem's turquoise waters and green landscapes.
"The views from the top are beautiful and well worth the effort."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Flip-flops aren't ideal; opt for sturdy shoes for the rocky and jungle paths.
💧 Carry Ample Water
No vendors on the route, so pack enough water for your trek.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.1 · 235 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Top of the Lighthouse
Ascend the lighthouse for breathtaking 360-degree views of Koh Rong Sanloem's lush jungle and turquoise waters.
Jungle Trek Adventure
Path to the Lighthouse
Embark on an adventurous walk through the island's tropical jungle, a unique experience away from the beaches.
Historic Lighthouse Structure
Lighthouse Summit
While a bit old and rusty, the lighthouse itself offers a rustic charm and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching it.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Trek
Support Local Guardians
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Flip-flops aren't ideal; opt for sturdy shoes for the rocky and jungle paths.
💧 Carry Ample Water
No vendors on the route, so pack enough water for your trek.
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
Maps.me or similar offline map apps are helpful for navigating the signposted but sometimes vague trails.
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around $1 to climb the lighthouse, supporting local upkeep.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Flip-flops aren't ideal; opt for sturdy shoes for the rocky and jungle paths.
💧 Carry Ample Water
No vendors on the route, so pack enough water for your trek.
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
Maps.me or similar offline map apps are helpful for navigating the signposted but sometimes vague trails.
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around $1 to climb the lighthouse, supporting local upkeep.
🛵 Consider Transport
Scooters or rides can shorten the walk from Saracens Bay if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Koh Rong Sanloem Lighthouse for its spectacular panoramic views and the adventurous jungle trek required to reach it. While the lighthouse itself is described as rustic, the stunning vistas and the sense of accomplishment make the hike and the small entry fee well worth the effort for many. Some note the path can be challenging and advise preparation with water and proper footwear.
"Nice view over the bay!
Bit old and rusty but fits the experience!
1$ to go up and support the local guardian.
Rocky access road but great exercise!"
Thomas de Groote
"The road uphill is a good walk and with the sun good exercise, however not a footpath you might hope to find. For 20 minutes you are in a Kind of Jungle until you come to a "do not enter sign" . Obviously it is completely closed, enforced by military as we had to notice after ignoring the sign"
K
"Well worth the walk. However, be prepared for a long hot walk if you walk all the way from Saracens bay which we did, started by Sara Resort. You can get rides there or hire scooters. We ended up doing about 12km altogether. Not too bad under foot but not really flip flops terrain though we did see some people in them. It is signposted but a bit vague in places. I use maps.me app for foreign travel which is free and excellent and helped keep us on the right track.
Most tracks are very wide due to them being opened up for proposed developments. This is a shame as it has spoilt parts of the island and means shade is hard to find. Last couple of kms is in narrower jungle trails, all are a bit up and down but nothing too strenuous, if you have a basic level of fitness. Make sure you carry water none available on route.
It is definitely worth it when you get there, the area is looked after by a local and he charges $1 to climb the lighthouse, photos show the way up, metal ladders, which are very secure. The views from the top are beautiful and well worth the effort. On the way back we walked to the south end of the beach which gave us a good look at the whole of Saracens bay.
All in all as long as you’re prepared for a bit of a hike it’s something worth doing and a good change from sitting by the pool or on the beach."
Shaun Perryman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is accessible via a trek from Saracens Bay. You can walk the entire way, which can be around 12km round trip, or hire a scooter/get a ride for part of the journey. The path winds through jungle terrain.
The path is generally signposted, but can be vague in places. Using an offline navigation app like Maps.me is highly recommended to stay on track.
No, taxis and tuk-tuks cannot reach the lighthouse. The final approach requires walking through jungle paths.
The terrain is a mix of wide paths, likely from past development, and narrower jungle trails. It involves uphill sections and is not always shaded.
The walk from Saracens Bay can take approximately 20 minutes to a couple of hours depending on your pace and whether you use transport for part of the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small fee, typically $1, charged by a local guardian to climb the lighthouse and enjoy the views.
The lighthouse is generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's best to check with locals or your accommodation for the most current information.
No advance booking is required. You pay the fee upon arrival to the local guardian.
While generally open, there might be temporary closures or restrictions. It's advisable to be aware of any 'do not enter' signs, though some visitors have reported ignoring them.
The fee contributes to the upkeep of the lighthouse and supports the local guardian who manages access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The view from the top is spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the island's blue sea, white clouds, and green forests. It's considered well worth the climb.
The climb involves metal ladders which are described as secure. The main challenge is the trek to reach the lighthouse itself.
Essential items include plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
No, there are no facilities available on the route to or at the lighthouse itself.
The lighthouse is described as a bit old and rusty, but this adds to its rustic charm and the overall experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top are the main draw for photography. The jungle path also offers scenic shots.
Mornings offer good light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting.
Information on drone usage is not readily available, but it's always best to check local regulations before flying.
You can capture the lush greenery of the jungle, the winding paths, and potentially glimpses of wildlife.
While the main viewpoint is at the lighthouse, the trek itself offers various scenic spots within the jungle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit