Cập nhật: 01-01-1970 12:00:00 | Blogs about Cambodia | Lượt xem: 1037
Loved for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Koh Rong Island is an enthralling spot that captivates anyone seeking a lovely seaside escape on the South Coast of Cambodia. As Koh Rong is less developed than other beach destinations in the region, it promises amazingly pristine beauty and a completely relaxed atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for some tranquility after getting enough of the bustling Cambodian mainland, this is definitely the right place for you.
Guide to Koh Rong Island - Cambodia’s coastal charm
Loved for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Koh Rong Island is an enthralling spot that captivates anyone seeking a lovely seaside escape on the South Coast of Cambodia. As Koh Rong is less developed than other beach destinations in the region, it promises amazingly pristine beauty and a completely relaxed atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for some tranquility after getting enough of the bustling Cambodian mainland, this is definitely the right place for you.
Koh Rong is the second-largest island in Cambodia, with a total area of approximately 78 km2. It is located in Sihanoukville’s Mittakpheap District and includes only four village communities: Koh Touch, Daem Thkov, Prek Svay, and Sok San. Established as a commune in 2000, Koh Rong Island is a fairly new administrative area that’s still deserted, undeveloped, and sparsely populated.
However, this charming island has gradually become a rising tourist destination with some of the best beaches in Cambodia in recent years. Boasting over 40 km of beautiful coastline and a thriving marine ecosystem, Koh Rong offers countless leisure opportunities and a wide range of exciting water activities that you can delve into.
Generally, the best time for a Koh Rong trip or any other Cambodia tour package is during the dry season (November - May) when the weather is most pleasant, and the seas are calmest. In particular, December - February is said to be the most beloved period among travelers thanks to mild temperatures of 25°C - 31°C. However, this is also the busiest time on the island.
The rainy season (June - October) with fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices will be a better match if you’re looking for perfect peacefulness. While the rain can be heavy, it often comes in short bursts, leaving the rest of the day clear. Nevertheless, ferry services can be disrupted during this time due to rough seas, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.
The only way to get to Cambodia island Koh Rong is by ferry from Sihanoukville, which could be reached by air, bus, or private transfer from major hubs like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Once in Sihanoukville, you can select between slow and fast ferries. The former often lasts 2.5 hours and costs about $5 each way, while the latter takes 45 - 60 minutes each way and costs $14 - $17 one way and $25 - $30 for a round-trip. You can also use the round-trip ticket to return from Koh Rong Samloem - Koh Rong’s neighboring island.
Ferries run here daily in various timeframes, but it’s better to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons. Most of them will dock at Koh Touch - the island’s main beach. However, there are three more piers around Koh Rong, so make sure to check your exact destination with the operator before boarding.
Koh Rong Cambodia is divided into several areas, each offering a unique vibe for your vacation. Koh Toch Village is the island’s brisk center with busy restaurants, bars, and budget accommodations. Here, you’ll find hostels and guesthouses with basic amenities and a social atmosphere, with prices ranging from $10 - $30 per night.
If you’re looking for a quiet Cambodia beach resort, head to Sok San Beach, Long Set Beach, or Lonely Beach, where you can immerse yourself in total serenity. These places often feature mid-range boutique resorts and eco-friendly lodges that provide absolute comfort at $50 - $70 per night. There are also a few luxury options here, with prices starting from $100.
Koh Touch Beach is only a few minutes walk from Koh Touch town - Koh Rong’s main tourist area. As the island’s most accessible and liveliest beach, Koh Touch boasts an energetic atmosphere with countless bars, restaurants, and shops. The beach offers plenty of water sports and activities by day, and comes alive with beach parties and fire shows as the night falls. This is unquestionably the go-to place if you wish to experience the cheerful side of Koh Rong.
Just a few km from Koh Touch is Long Set - or the 4K Beach, named for its 4-kilometer stretch of soft white sand. This beach is a perfect stop for those seeking peace and natural beauty on Koh Rong Island. Here you can stroll along the coastline, sunbathe under the swaying palm trees, swim in the transparent waters, or admire the magical sunset that paints the sky in vivid hues of orange and red.
Located on the western side of the island, Long Beach is a mesmerizing spot for recreation and relaxation thanks to calm waters, dazzling white sands, and above all, an expansive shoreline that stretches about 7 km. This area is also home to a fisher community and several high-end resorts, making it a great place to stay overnight if you’re interested in both cultural absorption and modern comforts.
On the far east side of Koh Rong Island is Coconut Beach, which is loved for its shallow waters, colorful coral reefs, swinging hammocks, and laid-back vibe. As its name suggests, this beach is shaded by an abundance of coconut palms, creating a postcard-perfect tropical scene for your holiday on the island.
Tucked away in a secluded corner in the far north of Koh Rong, this beach lives up to its name by offering complete tranquility. The area around Lonely Beach remains almost untouched with no resorts or major developments. Surrounded by a lush jungle, this isolated spot is absolutely ideal if you want to disconnect from the real world and enjoy nature in its purest form.
Koh Rong’s crystal-clear waters and gorgeous coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving. The most popular spots to discover marine life here are Koh Touch Beach, Long Set Beach, and Long Beach, where you can find trustworthy operators who offer guided tours and equipment rentals. Some tours also include a short fishing session to enhance your experience.
For a dose of adventure, try exploring Koh Rong’s stunning coastline on a kayak or paddleboard. Many resorts and hotels around the island offer kayaks and paddleboards for rent. As you glide through the waters, you can also navigate serene mangroves, discover some islets, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking tropical scenery.
If you head out to sea just after dusk, you’ll have the chance to observe the enchanting bioluminescent plankton in their natural habitats. These tiny organisms light up the water at night, creating a glowing, otherworldly spectacle that’s hard to find anywhere else in Cambodia. You can watch them from afar, or dip into the water and enjoy a swim with them.
Apart from thrilling water activities, Koh Rong Island also offers fantastic routes for trekking enthusiasts with its dense jungles. Traversing these scenic trails, you will encounter diverse wildlife, exotic plants, and spectacular panoramic views. Without a doubt, this is a brilliant way to connect with the island’s untamed beauty.
Another captivating activity you should not miss on Koh Rong Island is visiting its traditional fishing villages, such as Prek Svay and Daem Thkov. A brief excursion to these communities will help you get to know the friendly locals, learn about their daily lives, and observe their age-old fishing techniques. Last but not least, don’t miss the chance to savor some authentic Khmer dishes.
Despite its remote location, Koh Rong still has a vibrant nightlife scene. Koh Touch is the main hub here with many excellent bars where you can socialize, play beer pong, and entertain yourself. In addition, most beach bars along Koh Touch, Long Set, or Sok San feature talented fire dancers who perform nightly. If you like electronic music and dance floor, night parties are organized weekly at the Police Beach near Koh Touch and some private beaches.
The picturesque Koh Rong Samloem is another fascinating destination to unveil during your Cambodia coastal getaway. A ferry ride from Koh Rong’s Koh Touch to Koh Rong Samloem’s Saracen Bay typically costs only $5 and lasts about 30 minutes. The most beloved spots to discover here are Saracen Bay, M’Pai Bay, Lazy Beach, and Sunset Beach. Less populated than its neighbor, Koh Rong Samloem provides a great opportunity to unwind in a hammock, enjoy a tasty tropical drink, and soak up the mellow atmosphere.
Active & Adventure - 5 days 4 nights
Honeymooners - 10 days 9 nights
Essentials Tours - 12 days 11 nights
