Even though the magnificent Angkor Wat steals the limelight, Cambodia makes for one amazing travel destination in its own right. The same goes for its mesmerizing capital Phnom Penh on the banks of the mighty Mekong River. The sprawling city is ground zero for ancient history, natural wonders, and a bevy of exotic and opulent architecture. Complementing that is a 21st-century labyrinth of streets buzzing with pedestrians, motorbikes, and frenetic markets, and wild nightlife. In addition to traditional culture and legendary temples, Phnom Penh also has a burgeoning LGBTQ scene. In fact, there is a great posse of gay hotels in Phnom Penh as well as a Pride celebration, even though gay friendly laws are still far off. Despite that, LGBTQ travelers will feel not only safe but welcome even. Most of Phnom Penh’s gay nightlife lies by the riverside in lively Khan Doun Penh.
Unlike many other Asian countries, Phnom Penh, and Cambodia in general, is surprisingly very gay-friendly. This is due to the strong Buddhist culture which fosters the culture for broad tolerance towards both LGBTQ locals and travelers. What’s more, there’s even an LGBTQ magazine, Q Cambodia that’s been around since 2017. Additionally, LGBTQ visitors interested in history and culture will love exploring the sights in and around Phnom Penh. These include the opulent Royal Palace and Tonle Sap, which are two of the Top 7 Things To Do In Cambodia. South of Phnom Penh also lies the infamous Killing Fields, one of the Top 10 Dark Tourism Destinations, which are a huge part of Cambodia’s history.
Overall, Phnom Penh makes for one fascinating LGBTQ friendly destination. So, pack your bags and book one of these top 11 gay hotels in Phnom Penh.
Rambutan Resort
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Rambutan Resort is one groovy gay hotel in Phnom Penh. The hotel sits in a striking villa that once belonged to the US embassy. Today, this extremely gay friendly and impeccably run establishment radiates a 60s-groovy vibe. The highlight of the hotel is the boot-shaped saltwater swimming pool, which sits in the shade of the original and new wings. Sun loungers and shaded enclosures beneath parasols make this the best place to hang out and engage in meet-cutes. The restaurant sits right next to the pool and serves both local and international delicacies. Moreover, this is also where Rambutan serves a complimentary breakfast. Despite its small size, the spa is perfect for downtime, and who knows whom you’ll meet? Finally, the lively bar rounds up the amazing amenities. It’s a great place to enjoy an evening cocktail before heading out to explore the city’s gay nightlife, a 10-minute drive away.
You can choose from 19 rooms, plus a suite at Rambutan Resort, all of which ooze an industrial-chic appearance. Think Plexiglass lamps, plywood loungers, and stylish poured-concrete floors. While all rooms have all mod-cons and open-plan bathrooms, the Deluxe ones have alfresco bathtubs. The Pool View Rooms go further with balcony bathtubs, while Garden View Rooms have private garden terraces with pools.
Arthur & Paul Hotel & Spa Phnom Penh
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It doesn’t get any gayer than the Arthur & Paul Hotel & Spa in Phnom Penh. It’s the first men-only gay hotel in Phnom Penh and is owned and operated by a gay couple too. The lovely hotel sits in a renovated 1930s building a 10-minute drive from the gay area. A five-minute drive will get you to landmarks like the Independence Monument, Royal Palace, and the riverside. So, pack your bags and go on a 100% gay adventure in Phnom Penh at this phenomenal spa boutique hotel.
The hotel is inspired by the passionate relationship between famous French poets Paul Verlaine and Arthur Rimbaud, and it’s evident in its sensuous facilities. Right from the decadent outdoor pool to the atmospheric spa, you’ll feel pampered, rejuvenated, and passionate to the hilt. You can even enjoy a drink in the bar, nibble on snacks between spa sessions, or hang out in the restaurant. No matter where you go, you’ll see beautiful people with whom you can strike interesting conversations.
If the common areas are sensuous, then the spacious rooms inspired by 70s designs are nothing less than sexy. Moreover, they’re named after glamorous and famous gay couples or personalities like David and Elton, Domenico and Stefano, and Ricky! Every room comes with plush beds where you can unleash your wildest fantasies. besides all other comfy mod-cons, the rooms even have their own minibars and jacuzzis to keep the passion going all night long. Whether you need rooms for an hour, a day, a night, or more, this hotel is perfect.
The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
9
The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa is a marvelous oasis lying right behind the Royal Palace in the heart of Phnom Penh. It’s one of its most gay friendly hotels in Phnom Penh, and for more than one reason. The resort lies right down the street from Blue Chilli, the city’s best gay bar. Also, all its best historic sights and markets can be explored on foot, making it a great base if you’re an LGBTQ history and culture buff.
The Plantation lies in French-built historic structures and combines that with excellent furnishings and design to make a classic vintage hotel. A huge wooden gate welcomes you into a quaint yet stunning courtyard, complete with six Angkor-style lions and a pond. The walls surrounding the courtyard are full of photographs of the old. A handsome 1930s French villa lies just beyond, which leads to a 1960s Khmer-style structure and a modern block that houses the rooms. Two pools, of which one is open to those staying here feature lush foliage, loungers, and salas (cabanas). A small souvenir shop and an excellent spa aside, the hotel has two restaurants serving French and Khmer cuisines. The breakfast buffet by the pool is a lovely way to start the day.
Most rooms lie in the Khmer structure, clustered around the gorgeous pool. The others lie in the modern block and offer fantastic views. The former ones are bright, beautifully restored, and feature balconies or patios, while the latter have better views. Nevertheless, they all have modern bathrooms.
La Rose Suites
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If you’re looking for a boutique gay friendly hotel in Phnom Penh, then you’d do well to choose La Rose Suites. The stylish hotel lies on a quiet boulevard right next to the Independence Monument. The Royal Palace, the Mekong, and the city’s gay scene are a 20-minute walk. The hotel is one of the city’s best heritage experiences and melds modern amenities with Angkorian culture and Indochina aesthetics. The unfailingly helpful and efficient staff is the highlight here, and attend to your every whim and fancy. You can choose from two small pools, complete with daybeds and hotel-provided towels, for lounging on languid afternoons. Or, you can head to the spa, which features an excellent range of wellness treatments. The restaurants are the hotel’s highlight and serve a fantastic selection of Western, Asian, and Khmer fare for all meals, including a hearty breakfast.
Even the standard, entry-level rooms are exceptionally spacious, complete with seating areas, four-poster beds, and lots of space left over. Modern amenities include everything from complimentary minibars to flatscreen TVs. On the other hand, lamp stands and mirror frames fashioned from tree trunks are nice natural touches. Some rooms feature kitchenettes for longer stays, while others have lovely patios facing the quiet street. Nevertheless, all rooms come with spotless bathrooms and complimentary one-hour traditional massages.
Pavilion
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If you and your partner are looking for a private gay friendly luxury hotel in the heart of Phnom Penh, then the Pavilion is perfect. The urban sanctuary comprises four poolside villas from the 1920s-1990s set on a heritage garden compound. A smattering of history, two pools in the center, and oodles of privacy make for a fabulous romantic hideaway. Moreover, the Independence Monument is right next door, while the riverfront, Royal Palace, and the gay scene is a 10-minute walk.
The hotel’s structures are steeped in Cambodian history. The 1920s-built main structure was home to the mother of the last monarch of French-protected Cambodia. The second 1960s-built building was the home of the royal vet, while the last two newer villas are from the 90s. The entire place is sprinkled with black-and-white photographs, Art-Deco curios, and wooden Buddha figurines, reinforcing the heritage feel. Book a couple’s massage at the small spa, which even has a complimentary massage session per guest. Lounge on daybeds at the two pools before heading out to a complimentary sunset boat trip on the Tonle Sap river. You can also grab the free bicycles and go exploring the neighborhood on your own. The poolside restaurant provides excellent meals, right from breakfast to cocktails to dinner.
Each one of the 36 rooms has different layouts. While the standard rooms are a bit small, we’d recommend the deluxe rooms which even have balconies/patios. If you’re looking for something special, go for the four rooms which have their own private pools, of which one even has a private whirlpool tub.
Manor House Hostel
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The charming Manor House Hostel is one of the most popular gay friendly hotels in Phnom Penh. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience but with the budget of a backpacker, then this hostel is perfect. Besides, it’s utterly gay friendly and even houses one of the best gay restaurants in town! Formerly a villa and a boutique hotel both, the now chic hostel has some of the most luxurious dorms in town. All recently renovated dorm rooms feature plush king-size bunks, complete with individual lockers, fans, and even reading lights. Apart from spotless bathrooms, the hostel also provides toiletries and fresh towels every day.
Just like other hostels, the real fun at the hostel begins once you set outside the rooms. The adult-only hostel is nestled in a private tropical garden, complete with peaceful surroundings just like the town it lies in. The saltwater pool area is the hub of all action, where you can even sip on cocktails as you make new friends. As the day goes on, you can enjoy a round of pool or relax in the garden area. Begin your day with a super breakfast from the on-site gay-owned Vapor Bar & Restaurant, which also offers incredible daily happy hours.
Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
5
If you’d rather stay in a gay friendly hostel than a hotel, then look no further than Mad Monkey Phnom Penh. The hostel chain is well-known for its lively vibe, and the Phnom Penh outpost is no different. The vibrant place beautifully balances relaxing, meeting new people, and partying, making for a wholesome gay friendly experience in the Cambodian capital. What’s more, the hostel sits merely 20 minutes from the riverside and gay scene in town and is close to most of the Top 11 Things To Do In Phnom Penh.
There are many options for dorms and private rooms at this hostel, all of them comfortably within budget. The dorms are both female-only and mixed, and the smaller dorms have double bunk beds that can sleep two people. For the price, the private rooms are swish. Besides the rooms, the hostel features a relaxing restaurant and lounge/bar, which are perfect to meet new people. You might even find friends who’ll join you in exploring the city. The vibe is social without feeling excessive;y party-like, and it’s perfect. The highlight is the swimming pool where you can lounge and sip on cocktails, or chat with your newly-made friends and even your crushes! If you’re a party monster, check out the hostel’s rooftop events, free punch parties, keg night, beer pong tournaments, and bar crawls.
TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel
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There are few Oriental-inspired atmospheric gay hotels in Phnom Penh like TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel. The quaint boutique hotel features a retro Chinese-inspired design and boasts a great location too. It sits on a tranquil street north of the Independence Monument. Hence, the riverfront and the fabulous gay bars of Phnom Penh are a 15-minute walk. The best part? The property is highly wallet-friendly too.
Despite being a budget hotel, Tea House impresses right from the outset. A sprawling lobby is lined bright red couches and a wonderful collection of large tea containers and Chinese vases. The urban Asian ambiance is furthered by bespoke additions like red-themed furnishings, a daily afternoon tea ceremony, and even a roadside tea garden. The property even has a small pool, which is great for a dip. A compact gym and a small spa complete the offerings, which are generous for a budget hotel. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel also offers the free sunset boat trip on the Tonle Sap River. Apart from extensive lunch and dinner menus, the restaurant even serves a decent breakfast. Before heading to explore Phnom Penh’s gay nightlife, enjoy a cocktail at the poolside bar.
Choose from three kinds and sizes of rooms, of which the superior and deluxe are more spacious with plush beds and all standard amenities. Bathrooms might be compact and no-thrills, but they’re spotless.
Penh House & Jungle Addition
3
Did someone say intimate luxury i the heart of Phnom Penh? That’s what the gay friendly Penn House & Jungle Addiction offers. The digs combine two discrete properties under one banner on a quiet lane just north of the Independence Monument. The Royal Palace, the riverfront, and the fabulous gay scene are a 10-minute walk.
The hotel combines the garden compound that is the Jungle Addition and the six-story Penh House. The former is a historic structure from 1948, complete with semicircular balconies. The latter is contemporary to boot, with huge photographs, tropical plants, and a gorgeous rooftop. Lounge at the rooftop infinity pool on a languorous day, with stellar views of the city, the river, and the Royal Palace. If you want to unwind, then head to the quaint but decadent spa. Or, you could get in a spot of workout at the compact gym. You can even join the free 1.5-hour boat tour along the Tonle Sap River which takes off at five in the evening. Additionally, Jungle Addition has a smaller, shaded pool set in the garden. The rooftop restaurant offers both Western and Khmer cuisine, while both properties offer both à la carte and buffet breakfasts.
You have lots of choices when it comes to rooms at this hotel. The rooms at Jungle Addition Penh are spread across two structures and have a distinct Khmer vibe to them. Penn House ones are more contemporary, with daybeds and balconies. For panoramic views, go for an upper-floor room in Penn House. Above all, all rooms feature plush beds, spotless bathrooms, and mod-cons.
La Rose Boutique Hotel & Spa
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Another great boutique gay hotel in Phnom Penh is the La Rose Boutique Hotel & Spa. The 10-room hotel lies a 15-minute walk down the street from its sister property La Rose Suites, and is one of the most intimate living experiences in the city. In spite of lying on one of the busier roads in the city, the hotel is quiet and serene as it’s set back from the road.
Formerly a family home from the 1980s, this redesigned boutique property is a wonderful and rather hidden gem. It melds faux French-colonial panache, Angkor-esque grandeur, and classic Khmer aesthetics with modern amenities, making for one unique stay. The bright, smart lobby and hallways are peppered with paintings and busts, with the staff ready to take care of just about anything. The restaurant is very popular and serves both Asian and Western fare, along with a superb all-day breakfast. The highlight is the eponymous spa, which has three spa rooms including one for couples!
The rooms are all flawlessly immaculate and spacious and decked out with four-poster beds and vibrant Cambodian floor tiles. Spotless bathrooms with marble tubs and a bevy of swish mod-cons complete the picture.
Home Chic Hotel
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If you’re looking for a gay friendly hotel close to Phnom Penh’s gay scene, riverside, and its attractions, then the Home Chic Hotel ticks all boxes. The hotel offers excellent-value rooms hardly a 15-minute walk from the riverside and gay bars in Phnom Penh. If that wasn’t enough, the Royal Palace, Independence Monument, the Genocide Museum, and other sights are also a 10-15-minute walk. When it comes to accommodation here, you won’t be disappointed. All rooms are spacious and come with all standard mod-cons like flatscreen TVs, kettles, and even extras like slippers and bathrobes. The private ensuite bathrooms are immaculate and modern, ensuring a comfortable stay.
For a value stay, the hotel sure offers a plethora of amenities. The gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, for instance, could belong to an upscale boutique hotel. It’s peppered with the same blue-colored daybeds and umbrellas for relaxing under the Cambodian sunshine. You can even order a drink from the pool bar, which is also a great place to enjoy an evening cocktail before stepping out into Phnom Penh’s dazzling nightlife. Besides a friendly staff, the hotel even has free Wi-Fi and serves a particularly sumptuous breakfast.
Just So You Know:
- Phnom Penh’s Pride parade has been around since as far back as 2003.
Get Some Culture in Phnom Penh:
- Cambodia Pride: Pride brunches, tuk-tuk races, pool parties, another round of bar parties, and dance shows – Phnom Penh Pride celebrations have it all!
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Phnom Penh:
- Blue Chilli: This is the city’s most popular gay bar and the longest-running gay bar in not just Phnom Penh, but Cambodia.
- Vapor Restaurant: The gay-owned and managed bar at the gay friendly Manor House Boutique Hotel is one amazing place for meet-ups and food.
- Pride of Cambodia: Also known as Pride of Phnom Penh, this gay bar kicks off Pride celebrations in the city with the rambunctious Street Party.
Best Gay Saunas in Phnom Penh:
Steam Steam Steam is a rather discreet gay sauna in the BKK1 district. It offers massage services and steam rooms for men, including out-calls. Apart from private showers, the chic place even dishes out free lube and condoms.