Koh Rong is a breathtaking island in Sihanoukville province, known for its dreamy beaches and crystal-clear water. A true paradise for anyone who loves beach life and wants peace away from the crowds. The island offers plenty: snorkeling and diving among colorful marine life, kayaking and relaxed walks along endless sandy beaches, or simply soaking up the sun. Koh Rong consists of two islands: the larger, livelier main island Koh Rong with lots of accommodation, restaurants and bars, and the smaller, quieter Koh Rong Samloem.
Plan enough time, a day trip doesn't do the island's beauty justice.
Booked through 12go, cost €20 to €40, journey 4 to 5 hours. We took the bus from Phnom Penh to the port in Sihanoukville and continued by ferry from there, with a short stop at the smaller neighboring island Koh Rong Samloem, before arriving at one of the two ports on Koh Rong. Important: at the ferry port you have to show your digital ticket on your phone, straightforward and well organized.
Not central, but right on a dream beach, €140 a night, expensive by Cambodian standards, but worth the experience. Pristine sandy beach, crystal-clear water, free use of stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, evenings with open-air cinema or beach BBQ, and an excellent food offering, a real highlight of our Cambodia trip.
Verdict: definitely a place we can wholeheartedly recommend. Anyone willing to spend a bit more will be rewarded with an unforgettable stay.
Not central, but secluded and quiet, from €60 a night. A pleasant, relaxed atmosphere, free use of stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Minor downsides: some of the equipment was damaged, and the transfer to the port was more expensive than at other hotels on the island.
Verdict: despite minor flaws, we can recommend Secret Garden, especially for travelers looking for a quiet place to stay. For us personally, though, Golden Beach Resort was the better choice.
Blew us away, definitely one of the most beautiful beaches we've ever been to. Incredibly fine sand, glass-clear, clean water, perfect for snorkeling. We truly felt like we were in paradise, an unforgettable experience.
Beautifully set up, with plenty of options like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Compared to Golden Beach, though, the water was less clear during our stay. Still, we felt very much at home here and enjoyed the activities.
One of the island's most famous beaches with fine white sand and turquoise water, stretching over 7 km. Perfect for long walks and dreamy sunsets, and despite a few resorts, the beach stays relatively quiet.
Since we really liked the food at our accommodations and the trip into town was expensive, we ate exclusively at our hotels.
Right on the beach, Asian and Western dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Fresh and flavorful, we were especially won over by the vegetarian options. Enjoying our meals in this idyllic setting was a special experience.
Set in a secluded spot, Asian and Western cuisine. The vegetarian dishes were fresh and flavorful, and we especially loved the homemade curries and fresh salads.
Numerous operators run trips to the island's best spots, including Coral Garden, Long Set Beach and Sok San Beach. Impressive underwater world with colorful coral and diverse marine life. Tip: bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it locally, since it's not always available.
A paradise for beginners and advanced divers alike, the waters are home to sharks, rays, barracudas and octopuses. Popular dive sites include Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, plus the chance to explore a sunset boat that sank in 2011 and is now covered in coral.
Relaxed yet still adventurous, many hotels offer it free for guests. While paddling across turquoise water, you can watch the underwater world of colorful fish and coral.
Whether jungle hikes, sunsets at the most beautiful beaches or simply relaxing by the sea, Koh Rong has something for everyone.