Koh Rong Island, located off the coast of Cambodia, is a tropical paradise that draws in visitors from around the world. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, it’s no surprise Koh Rong is becoming a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.
Koh Rong Island: A Heavenly Escape
Koh Rong offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it the perfect destination for travelers seeking a tropical escape. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, Koh Rong has something for everyone.
Stunning Beaches
Koh Rong is famous for its stunning beaches, each with its own charm. Long Set Beach is a must-visit, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For those seeking a quieter experience, Sok San Beach offers a more secluded atmosphere, ideal for unwinding in peace. Meanwhile, Koh Touch, the main tourist area, is vibrant and lively, especially in the evenings when beach bars come alive with music and laughter.
Koh Touch beach bars
Diverse Marine Life
The surrounding waters of Koh Rong are home to a rich variety of marine species, including colorful tropical fish and corals. The island’s rich marine biodiversity makes it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving. You can book scuba diving tours to explore colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, hire a local fishermen’s boat for a wonderful fishing trip amidst the waves and sky, or take a kayak out to discover hidden coves.
If you visit Koh Rong, you should stay overnight on the island, especially on moonlit nights, the perfect time to see the rare and fascinating natural phenomenon of the phosphorescent sea. Bright light is emitted by a species of phosphorescent plankton when under pressure, which creates the most magical scene as if a galaxy of sparkling stars were hidden under the waves. Time spent on the sand, literally glowing under the moonlight, will provide a whole new level of holiday memories.
Phosphorescent sea in Koh Rong
Adventure Activities
Quite the opposite of Sihanoukville’s busy beaches, Koh Rong is a quieter and pristine paradise. Thrill-seekers can still enjoy a range of activities, such as zip-lining through the jungle and hiking to remote parts of the island. Exploring the island’s lush paths provides stunning views and encounters with local wildlife, making Koh Rong an unforgettable destination for adventurous explorers.
Embracing nature
With ongoing conservation efforts, visitors can enjoy the island’s pristine environment while contributing to its protection. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or exploring the jungle, you’ll be catching breathtaking landscapes that make Koh Rong so special.
Vibrant Nightlife
As the sun sets, Koh Rong transforms into a lively party destination, especially around Koh Touch. Beach bars and restaurants offer a mix of local and international cuisine, along with refreshing cocktails. Join in the fun with fire shows, dancing, and socializing with fellow travelers from around the world.
Fire show at Koh Rong
A Tranquil Escape
Koh Rong sets itself apart from the nearby islands, which are more developed with numerous restaurants and high-rise hotels. Despite experiencing some recent growth, the island has managed to retain its natural charm and remains largely untouched by large-scale commercialization. As you venture away from the bustling party areas, you’ll be rewarded with vast stretches of pristine beaches where the sand feels soft underfoot, and the only sounds are the gentle waves lapping against the shore. Koh Rong offers a tranquil escape that feels worlds apart from the modern conveniences of other tourist attractions, making it a true paradise for those seeking peace.
An affordable paradise
The cost of traveling to Koh Rong, once in Cambodia tours, is minimal, and The New York Times voted the island as one of the 45’must-see’ tourist destinations in the world. Put this little-known island paradise on your list; white sand and summer wonders are awaiting you. Koh Rong will be an unforgettable destination in your Indochina tours.
How to get there
Koh Rong Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 20 km from Sihanoukville, so the easiest way is to take regular ferry services from there. The journey to the island involves a peaceful 45-minute boat ride, where travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and tropical landscape.
Best time to visit Koh Rong Island
The ideal time to visit Koh Rong is during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. The rainy season from June to October sees fewer tourists on the island but brings a more peaceful atmosphere and cheaper accommodations.
Where to stay on Koh Rong Island
Whether you’re a budget backpacker or looking for a luxury retreat, Koh Rong has accommodations to suit every preference. From quaint hostels to rustic beachside bungalows and upscale resorts, you can find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration. Therefore, if you are looking for a spot of luxury, in addition to that all-important isolation, the stunning resort covers two small islands with a wooden footbridge connecting them both. Guests either have a choice of a villa with a private pool in the lush rainforest or a villa perched over the turquoise waters. The property harmoniously blends into the tropical surroundings and is built with sustainable materials to preserve the area’s stunning beauty.
Practical Travel Tips for Koh Rong
When visiting Koh Rong, it’s important to be mindful of the local environment and be prepared ahead.
- Koh Rong is committed to eco-friendly tourism; make sure to dispose of your trash responsibly.
- Bring insect repellent. The island is lush with greenery, making it a hotspot for mosquitoes, especially during the wet season.
While the temples of Angkor and the sights of the capital city Phnom Penh are the highest-profile attractions of Cambodia, there is so much more to discover in this beautiful country. Koh Rong Island is truly a hidden gem of Cambodia. So don’t miss out on discovering Koh Rong Island on your upcoming Cambodia tour.
