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Koh Rong, ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រ​កម្ពុជា - Things to Do in Koh Rong

Things to Do in Koh Rong

Koh Rong, ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រ​កម្ពុជា - Complete Travel Guide

Koh Rong is Cambodia's second-largest island and one of Southeast Asia's most pristine tropical paradises. Located about 25 kilometers off the coast of Sihanoukville in the Gulf of Thailand, this stunning island boasts over 43 kilometers of unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush jungle interior. Despite increasing development, Koh Rong maintains its laid-back charm with a perfect blend of budget backpacker accommodations and upscale resorts. The island is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, particularly Long Set Beach and Sok San Beach, which offer some of the most beautiful coastline in Cambodia. Beyond lounging on pristine shores, visitors can explore dense jungle trails, discover hidden waterfalls, snorkel in coral gardens, and experience one of nature's most magical phenomena - bioluminescent plankton that lights up the water at night. With no cars on the island and a focus on sustainable tourism, Koh Rong provides an authentic tropical escape where time seems to slow down.

Top Things to Do in Koh Rong

Bioluminescent Plankton Swimming

Experience one of nature's most magical phenomena by swimming in waters illuminated by bioluminescent plankton that glow blue-green when disturbed. This extraordinary natural light show is best experienced during dark moon phases when the water sparkles like liquid stars around your body. The phenomenon occurs year-round but is most vibrant during warmer months.

Booking Tip: Book night swimming tours through local guesthouses for $10-15 per person. Best visibility occurs during new moon phases between 8-11 PM. Choose operators who provide life jackets and avoid tours during full moon when natural light diminishes the effect.

Island Hopping and Snorkeling

Explore the pristine waters around Koh Rong and nearby islands including Koh Rong Sanloem, discovering vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular snorkeling spots include the coral gardens near Sok San Beach and the clear waters around smaller uninhabited islands. The underwater visibility is excellent, often reaching 15-20 meters, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Booking Tip: Full-day island hopping tours cost $25-35 including snorkeling gear, lunch, and boat transfers. Book through established operators with good safety records and recent equipment. Best conditions are from November to April when seas are calmer.

Jungle Trekking and Waterfall Discovery

Venture into Koh Rong's dense tropical interior on guided jungle treks that lead to hidden waterfalls and offer glimpses of the island's diverse wildlife. The trails wind through primary rainforest where you might spot hornbills, monkeys, and exotic butterflies. The main waterfall, though seasonal, provides a refreshing swimming hole surrounded by lush vegetation.

Booking Tip: Jungle treks cost $15-25 per person and should be booked with local guides who know current trail conditions. Bring insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and water. Best time is early morning (7-9 AM) when wildlife is most active and temperatures are cooler.

Sunset Beach Hopping

Discover Koh Rong's diverse beaches, each offering unique characteristics from the party atmosphere of Long Set Beach to the secluded tranquility of Lazy Beach. Sok San Beach on the northwest coast provides spectacular sunset views, while Coconut Beach offers excellent swimming and snorkeling. Many beaches feature beach bars serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Booking Tip: Rent a motorbike for $8-12 per day to explore beaches independently, or join guided beach tours for $20-30. Check tide schedules as some beaches are better accessed during low tide. Sunset viewing is best from western-facing beaches between 5:30-6:30 PM.

Fishing and Seafood Experiences

Join local fishermen on traditional boats for authentic fishing experiences in the rich waters surrounding Koh Rong. These excursions often include squid fishing at night using bright lights to attract the catch, followed by fresh preparation on the boat or beach. Day fishing trips target various species including snapper, grouper, and barracuda in the deeper waters around the island.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost $30-50 per person including equipment and boat. Night squid fishing tours are $25-35 and include dinner preparation. Book with experienced local captains recommended by your accommodation for the best spots and safety.

Getting There

Koh Rong is accessible only by boat from Sihanoukville (Kampong Som) on Cambodia's mainland. Several ferry companies operate regular services with journey times of 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the boat type. Speed boats are fastest but more expensive ($15-25 return), while slower ferries cost $10-15 return. Boats depart from Sihanoukville's Serendipity Pier or Ochheuteal Pier multiple times daily, with reduced services during monsoon season (June-October). It's advisable to book return tickets in advance during peak season and check weather conditions as services may be cancelled during rough seas.

Getting Around

Koh Rong has no paved roads or cars, making it a pedestrian and motorbike-only island. Most accommodations are within walking distance of the main pier at Koh Touch village, while more remote beaches require boat transfers or jungle walks. Motorbike taxis operate on dirt tracks for $3-8 depending on distance, and many guesthouses rent motorbikes for $8-12 per day. Boat taxis connect different beaches and cost $5-15 per journey. For exploring the island's interior, guided walks are recommended as trails can be confusing and conditions change seasonally.

Where to Stay

Koh Touch Village
Long Set Beach
Sok San Beach
Coconut Beach
Lazy Beach
Police Beach

Food & Dining

Koh Rong's dining scene centers around fresh seafood, Khmer cuisine, and international backpacker favorites. Beach restaurants serve grilled fish, prawns, and crab caught daily by local fishermen, typically costing $5-15 per dish. Koh Touch village has the highest concentration of restaurants, ranging from local Khmer eateries serving fish amok and lok lak ($3-6) to Western-style establishments offering pizza, burgers, and pasta ($4-10). Many beachfront bars double as restaurants, serving tropical cocktails alongside barbecued seafood during spectacular sunset sessions. For authentic experiences, seek out family-run establishments where you can often watch your meal being prepared over charcoal fires.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Cambodia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Trattoria Bello

4.7 /5
(897 reviews) 2

Fellini Siem Reap

4.8 /5
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Pasta La Vista Siem Reap

4.6 /5
(622 reviews)

CUCINA - Pizza & Pasta - Italian Restaurant Siem Reap

4.8 /5
(453 reviews)
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Polo Food

4.9 /5
(338 reviews)
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Trattoria da Rasy

4.9 /5
(201 reviews) 1

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When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Koh Rong is during the dry season from November to April when rainfall is minimal, seas are calmer, and temperatures hover around 26-30°C. December to February offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and consistent sunshine, though this is also peak tourist season with higher prices. March to May can be very hot and humid but offers good value and fewer crowds. The wet season (June-October) brings heavy afternoon rains, rough seas that can disrupt boat services, and some businesses may close, but accommodation rates drop significantly and the island takes on a lush, dramatic beauty.

Insider Tips

Bring cash as ATMs are limited and unreliable - most businesses only accept US dollars or Cambodian riel
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are expensive and limited on the island
Download offline maps and entertainment as WiFi is spotty and electricity may be limited to certain hours at budget accommodations

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