M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
On the northern tip of Koh Rong Sanloem lies a village that feels like a world apart. M’Pai Bay—also known as Village 23—isn’t your typical island destination. It’s a living, breathing community where Khmer fishing families and international residents coexist, bound by a love of nature, simplicity, and sustainable living.
For Alex, owner of the beachfront spot MY WAY, it’s this mix that makes the place so special. “M’Pai Bay has been a functioning village for decades, but it’s only in the past 10 years that it’s become more known as a destination,” he says. “The dream is to preserve the authenticity of the village while allowing it to evolve with care.”
A Slower Rhythm of Life
Tourism has arrived gently in M’Pai Bay, and with it, a sense of balance many destinations lose. “The best thing about M’Pai Bay is its nature—the turquoise, crystal-clear sea, the rich marine life, the soft beaches and the peaceful jungle that surrounds the village,” says Alex. “It’s a place where people smile easily and live simply. There’s a strong sense of contentment here. People are happy with not much.”
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That simplicity creates a kind of peace. “As a visitor or new resident, you feel safe, welcome and at home almost instantly.”
A Real Community, Not Just a Resort
Unlike heavily developed beach towns, M’Pai Bay has held onto something rare—soul. “People should visit because it offers something you won’t find in big resorts or overdeveloped beach towns: authenticity,” Alex explains. “It’s a place to disconnect from pressure, meet people who genuinely care about their environment, and support small, community-led businesses.”
There’s plenty to do for those who want it—snorkeling, diving, jungle trekking, kayaking, village clean-ups, and weekly events. “You can also find very good restaurants and home-cooked meals here,” he adds. “There’s a large choice of activities and events happening in this little village.”
A Model for Conscious Island Living
M’Pai Bay stands out not just for what it is, but for what it represents—a different way of doing tourism. “The village offers a sustainable, people-focused model for island living and tourism,” says Alex. “It supports local employment, small-scale eco-tourism and cross-cultural collaboration.”
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From environmental projects to educational initiatives, the village works together to keep its charm intact. “Every 23rd of the month, we organize a community fest to raise funds to help improve the village and maintain the beaches. It’s one of the ways we stay connected and give back.”
A Place That Stays With You
At its heart, M’Pai Bay is more than just a place to visit. It’s a place that changes you. “M’Pai Bay has this rare magic; it slows you down and makes you feel part of something real,” says Alex. “The sunsets, the kids playing on the sand, the landscapes, the simplicity—it all adds up to something that’s hard to describe but easy to feel.”
For Alex and many others who’ve made their home here, M’Pai Bay is a reminder that the best places aren’t always the most built up. Sometimes, they’re the ones that stay true to themselves.
“Cambodia has given this village a soul, and the people here give it life. That’s what makes it worth visiting.”
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
