Koh Rong is Cambodia’s most famous island, known for its soft white sand, clear blue water, and thick green jungles. It is the perfect place to visit if you want to relax on a quiet beach, swim with glowing plankton at night, or enjoy a fun party by the ocean. Located just a short boat ride from the city of Sihanoukville, this island offers a tropical escape for every type of traveler.
Table of Contents
- Why You Should Visit Koh Rong
- Getting There: The Journey to Paradise
- The Best Beaches on the Island
- Top Things to Do and See
- Koh Rong vs. Koh Rong Samloem: Which is Better?
- Practical Tips: Money, Weather, and Safety
- FAQs About Koh Rong
Why You Should Visit Koh Rong
For a long time, Koh Rong was a “hidden gem” only known to backpackers. Today, it has grown into a world-class destination. It is the second-largest island in Cambodia and feels like a true paradise because much of it is still undeveloped. Whether you are looking for a $10 hostel bed or a $500 luxury villa, you can find it here.
Getting There: The Journey to Paradise
The only way to reach Koh Rong is by boat from Sihanoukville. Most travelers take a “Speed Ferry,” which is a fast boat that takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Read more about how to get to Koh Rong.
- Cost: Tickets usually cost between $14 one way and $25 for a round trip.
- Departure: Boats leave from the GTVC or Buva Sea piers in Sihanoukville multiple times a day.
- Pro Tip: Always keep your return ticket safe! You will need to show it to the boat staff a day before you leave the island to “check-in” for your ride back. Don’t forget to inform the staff you preferred return time.
The Best Beaches on the Island
Koh Rong has over 23 beaches, so there is plenty of room for everyone. Here are the most popular spots:
Long Beach (Sok San Beach)
This is a massive 7-kilometer stretch of sparkling white sand. It is much quieter than Koh Touch and has some of the clearest water on the island. It is home to several high-end resorts and is famous for its stunning sunsets.
Long Set Beach
Located a short walk from Koh Touch, 4K Beach offers a great middle ground. It is beautiful and peaceful but still close enough to the main village if you want to grab a cheap meal.
Top Things to Do and See
- Swim with Bioluminescent Plankton: This is a “must-do.” At night, you can take a boat into the dark water. When you splash around, tiny organisms in the water light up like blue stars.
- Boat Tours: For about $15, you can join a full-day tour that includes snorkeling, fishing, a BBQ lunch on the beach, and a sunset view.
- High Point Adventure Park: If you like heights, you can go ziplining through the jungle canopy.
- Kayaking: Rent a kayak for about $5–$10 and explore the small islands nearby or the hidden mangrove forests.
Koh Rong vs. Koh Rong Samloem: Which is Better?
Many people wonder which “Koh Rong” to visit. While they share a name, they have very different vibes.
| Feature | Koh Rong (The Big Island) | Koh Rong Samloem (The Sister Island) |
| Vibe | Lively, social, and diverse. | Quiet, romantic, and “unplugged.” |
| Transport | Has paved roads and motorbikes. | No paved roads; mostly walking or boats. |
| Nightlife | Strong party scene at Koh Touch. | Very quiet; mostly chill beach bars. |
| Internet | Generally better Wi-Fi. | Can be spotty or non-existent in places. |
Practical Tips: Money, Weather, and Safety
- Cash is King: There are no traditional ATMs on Koh Rong. Some places offer “cash out” services using a credit card, but they charge a very high fee (usually 10%). Bring plenty of US Dollars or Cambodian Riel from the mainland.
- Best Time to Visit: The best weather is during the dry season from November to May. March and April are the hottest months.
- Stay Hydrated: The Cambodian sun is very strong. Always carry water and wear sunscreen.
FAQs About Koh Rong
Q: Is Koh Rong expensive?
A: It can be! You can find dorm beds for $7 and street food for $3, or stay at luxury resorts for hundreds of dollars. Generally, things cost about 20% more than on the mainland because everything has to be brought in by boat.
Q: Is there electricity 24/7?
A: Yes, in the main areas like Koh Touch and the big resorts, there is constant power. However, smaller bungalows in remote areas might still use generators that turn off late at night.
Q: Can I rent a motorbike?
A: Yes! Koh Rong has a new “ring road” that makes it easy to explore different beaches by scooter.
Final Thought
Koh Rong is a rare place where you can choose your own adventure. You can spend your days dancing with new friends at a beach club or find a private corner of sand where you are the only person in sight. Just remember to bring enough cash and a sense of adventure, and you will quickly see why this island is considered the crown jewel of Cambodia’s coast.
