Song Saa Private Island

We had a beachfront villa that worked perfectly for our toddler. The staff were so sweet with him and kept him busy with games. The rooms are beautiful, the pools are great, and there was lots of ocean life to see. We also appreciated the resort’s efforts to live in harmony with the surrounding nature and communities. Everyone made us feel so welcome, and we really didn’t want to leave. Book it.

The staff are incredibly friendly and clearly care about guests, but I found the constant check-ins from the general manager and guest manager made it hard to relax. They were helpful and accommodating, just a bit too present for me. There’s plenty to enjoy for a short stay: gorgeous rooms, a relaxing atmosphere, and great activities. Snorkeling, kayaking, and morning hatha yoga were highlights, and I liked learning about the Song Saa foundation’s work with nearby communities. Two or three nights seems about right. I stayed four, and that felt too long. All four of us in my group got sick from the food, or possibly the water. Breakfast was great, but the lunches and dinners disappointed us, and there aren’t other dining options. We tried many dishes at both restaurants over four nights and none met our expectations for a five-star hotel. The cocktails tasted watered down too.

The speedboat pickup made arrival easy, and check-in went smoothly. Song Saa felt welcoming from the start. Our room was spacious and stylish, with the feel of a private retreat, a very comfortable bed, and a stunning view. The restaurant served delicious food with lovely presentation. The hotel really knows how to offer high-level hospitality.

What stayed with me most was how exceptionally warm and friendly all the staff were. Their kindness left a lasting impression, and guests who can set the cost aside may have little to complain about overall. Still, the value for money didn’t feel right. Compared with other 5-star-plus resorts I’ve stayed at, staffing seemed reduced, and that showed in the care, upkeep, and small details. Some parts of the resort look dated and no longer seem to meet the standard you’d expect at this price, either in appearance or quality. I know Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world and that the resort is in a nature reserve, but I’ve stayed at other 5-star-plus places in Cambodia. We were also disappointed to find no jetty giving direct access to the sea. There was only a small stretch of beach where you could enter the water without running into sea urchins, on an island promoted as a snorkeling paradise. I think the website should explain this more clearly.