Koh Rong
A tropical island paradise in Cambodia, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs, offering both lively parties...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Epic parties at Nest Beach Club!
Koh Rong
Best Time
Epic parties at Nest Beach Club!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tropical island paradise in Cambodia, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs, offering both lively parties and serene escapes.
"It's like a true resort, a dreamy island like this really exists here. You have to come!"
Pack Light, Island Style
Bring essentials! Think swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Cash is King Here
ATMs are scarce. Carry enough USD for your stay, especially for smaller vendors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Long Beach
West Coast
A 7km stretch of pristine white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.
Nest Beach Club
Koh Touch
The epicenter of island parties, offering beach games, drinks, and sunrise celebrations every Saturday.
Coral Reefs
Various dive spots
Explore vibrant underwater worlds with affordable diving and snorkeling tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Vibe: Rustic Charm or Party Central?
Getting There: Patience is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Light, Island Style
Bring essentials! Think swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Cash is King Here
ATMs are scarce. Carry enough USD for your stay, especially for smaller vendors.
Embrace the Rustic
Not all areas are fully developed. Expect charmingly rustic accommodations and be prepared for occasional litter.
Scooter Safety First
Rent a scooter to explore, but be extremely cautious on wet red earth – it's very slippery!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Light, Island Style
Bring essentials! Think swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Cash is King Here
ATMs are scarce. Carry enough USD for your stay, especially for smaller vendors.
Embrace the Rustic
Not all areas are fully developed. Expect charmingly rustic accommodations and be prepared for occasional litter.
Scooter Safety First
Rent a scooter to explore, but be extremely cautious on wet red earth – it's very slippery!
Book Ferry in Advance
Especially during peak season, secure your ferry tickets to avoid disappointment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Koh Rong is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its white-sand beaches and clear waters, offering both vibrant party scenes and tranquil escapes. While many enjoy the rustic charm and affordability, some visitors note that certain areas could benefit from better development and cleanliness. The overall experience often depends on budget and expectations.
"This was my first time on an island like this, and I was completely blown away. I don't know if you've seen the White Lotus Resort, it's exactly the same. The beach, the fit young people, the enthusiastic service staff, the various water sports, and the beautiful sunset made me feel that it was unreal. It's definitely worth a visit."
BUYI ZHANG
"Koh Rang island has some beautiful beaches and is not, I repeat, not really developed. So if you’re looking a high end restaurants and facilities - they are few and far between. But if you enjoy rustic older world charm - you will likely enjoy a few days there. One day I rented a scooter and explored the island (be very careful of wet red earth - is extreme slippery) and another day walked miles along the shores through a couple different beaches. In busy times I can see the place filling with younger backpackers, as there are a multitude of “hut” type accommodations - with and without AC. I need AC 😃! I always found some delicious food (I was in Koah Touch)- from great pizza for $7 to a Ribeye steak and fries for $15 ( with free drink). From Phnon Penh - a simple bus ride (paid $14.5 for executive bus with Vireak Runtharm Express) to Sihanoukville - a tuk-tuk to the Tourist port and walk into an Express Boat office. Boats leave every hour or so. Cost is around $25 return per person. You have to tell them you hotel so they drop you at the pier of the correct beach. From there you can often just walk to your hotel (or TukTuk are around)."
Steve Itildo
"I’ve rate that this island is rated five stars—but of course, there are parts that might not meet your expectations. Some areas still need development, maintenance, and more attention. So don’t expect everything to be 100% clean and beautiful everywhere you go.
Your experience also depends a lot on your budget. If you’re staying at a cheap hostel, the experience might not be the best. But if you’re able to spend $50, $80, or even $200 per night, you’ll likely enjoy some truly stunning views and amazing places.
So don’t take things at face value. There are definitely beautiful parts of the island. I just hope people also share those good sides. Yes, there is some trash—you’re free to talk about that—but please don’t say “don’t come to Cambodia” just because of it. There’s trash in many parts of the world."
Sophorn Khim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is to take an executive bus from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville (approx. $14.50) and then a tuk-tuk to the Sihanoukville Tourist Port. From there, express boats depart hourly to Koh Rong, costing around $25 return.
Fly into Sihanoukville Airport or take a bus from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. Then, catch a ferry from Sihanoukville Pier to Koh Rong.
No, there are no direct flights to Koh Rong. You'll need to fly to Sihanoukville or Phnom Penh and then take a ferry.
The ferry journey from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the ferry service and sea conditions.
Yes, when booking your ferry, inform them of your hotel location, and they will often drop you at the closest pier.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry tickets from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong typically cost around $25 for a round trip. Bus tickets from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville are around $14.50.
It's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
There are no specific entrance fees to enter Koh Rong island itself, but you will pay for transportation (ferry) and any activities or accommodations.
Ferries to Koh Rong generally depart hourly from Sihanoukville Pier. It's best to check the latest schedules with the ferry operators upon arrival.
Yes, you can usually purchase ferry tickets directly at the express boat offices at Sihanoukville Tourist Port.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Long Beach is famous for its 7km stretch of white sand. Other beautiful spots include Sok San Beach and Coconut Beach, offering tranquil vibes.
Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, exploring coral reefs, relaxing on beaches, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife, especially at Nest Beach Club.
Absolutely! Koh Rong is a popular destination for backpackers with a range of affordable accommodation and lively social scenes.
The island has a lively nightlife, particularly around Koh Touch, with beach bars and parties. Nest Beach Club hosts major events on Saturdays.
Koh Rong is not heavily developed, offering a more rustic and natural experience. Some areas have more amenities than others.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of food options, from local Khmer dishes to Western favorites like pizza and steak. Food can be affordable, but options might be limited in less developed areas.
Restaurant availability varies. Koh Touch has the most options, while more remote beaches might have limited choices, often associated with accommodations.
Food prices can range from affordable local meals to more expensive Western dishes. A pizza might cost around $7, and a steak dinner with a drink around $15.
While not always explicitly advertised, many local eateries can prepare vegetarian versions of dishes. It's best to ask.
Breakfast options can be limited, especially in the mornings. Some accommodations offer breakfast, or you might find small stalls selling food.
📸 📸 Photography
Long Beach for sunsets, the clear turquoise waters, and the rustic charm of undeveloped areas offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, Koh Rong is incredibly photogenic with its white sandy beaches, clear waters, lush greenery, and dramatic sunsets.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the turquoise waters.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be respectful of private property and other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a waterproof camera or phone case is useful for water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in areas with more developed amenities, like near Koh Touch, where you'll find a wider range of food options and potentially more family-friendly accommodations. For a more relaxed family experience, look into boat tours that offer stops for snorkeling and swimming in calm bays. This can be a great way to see different parts of the island without the hassle of navigating rough roads.
Be prepared for a rustic experience; not all areas are perfectly manicured, and some accommodations might be basic. However, the adventure and natural beauty can make for a memorable family trip. 💸 Budget Travelers
Look for accommodations in the Koh Touch area for the most options and proximity to budget-friendly eateries. Getting to the island is also budget-friendly with bus and ferry combinations.
+1 Once there, walking is free, and short longtail boat rides between nearby beaches are relatively inexpensive. Just remember to bring enough cash, as ATMs are scarce. 💖 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Consider staying in a bungalow or a more secluded resort away from the main party areas for ultimate privacy and relaxation. Enjoy sunset cocktails at a beach bar, take a private longtail boat trip to explore hidden coves, or simply relax on the pristine sands.
While the island has a lively side, it's easy to find quiet spots to reconnect. The affordability of the island also means you can splurge on a nicer meal or a special activity without overspending. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Koh Rong: Getting Around the Island
It's important to note that infrastructure is still developing on Koh Rong. This means that not all areas are easily accessible by vehicle, and some paths might be challenging. Embrace the journey, and don't be afraid to ask locals for directions or recommendations on the best way to reach your desired spot. The slower pace of travel on the island is part of its charm.
For longer distances or to explore more remote beaches, organized boat tours are a fantastic option. These tours often include stops for snorkeling, swimming, and visiting different parts of the island, providing a hassle-free way to see the highlights.
The Koh Rong Experience: Beyond the Beaches
Saturday nights are particularly famous for the Nestival party at Nest Beach Club, a major draw for backpackers looking to dance until sunrise. However, Koh Rong also offers a tranquil escape for those who prefer a more laid-back experience. Beaches like Long Beach and Sok San Beach provide vast stretches of sand where you can truly unwind, enjoy the natural beauty, and witness spectacular sunsets.
+1 The island's natural beauty extends to its coral reefs, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts looking to explore underwater wonders. It's worth noting that the island's development is ongoing. While some areas are well-equipped, others retain a rustic charm. Travelers looking for a polished, resort-style experience might find certain parts less developed than expected.
Budgeting for Your Koh Rong Adventure
Accommodation options range from basic hostels, perfect for backpackers, to mid-range resorts. While cheaper hostels might offer a more rustic experience, spending a bit more can significantly enhance your comfort and views. Transportation costs are primarily associated with getting to the island. The bus from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and the subsequent ferry to Koh Rong are relatively inexpensive.
It's crucial to carry sufficient cash (USD) as ATMs are not readily available on the island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit