Things to Do in Koh Rong

Koh Rong sits about 25 kilometers off Cambodia's coast like a tropical daydream that somehow became real. This island actually lives up to the hype - white sand beaches that stretch for miles, water so clear you can see your feet at chest depth, and enough jungle to make you feel like you've genuinely escaped civilization. The main village has that perfect balance of having just enough infrastructure to keep you comfortable while still feeling authentically Cambodian, with fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and locals who wave from their porches. What makes Koh Rong special is how it manages to cater to different travel styles without losing its character. You might find backpackers sharing beers at beach bars next to families building sandcastles, while the more remote beaches offer the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in Southeast Asia. The island tends to slow you down in the best possible way - days blend into each other as you fall into a rhythm of swimming, eating fresh seafood, and watching sunsets that genuinely make you stop whatever you're doing.

The food scene on Koh Rong is refreshingly unpretentious - you'll find excellent fresh seafood at reasonable prices, with many restaurants literally on the beach so you can eat with your toes in the sand. The main village has the most variety, including several Khmer restaurants where you can try amok (coconut curry) and other Cambodian specialties alongside the inevitable Western backpacker fare. Many guesthouses serve decent food, and you'll often find the best meals at the places that look least fancy - follow the locals and other travelers. Fresh fish barbecues on the beach are common in the evenings, and the fruit shakes made with ice are genuinely refreshing after a day in the sun.

The dry season from November through April offers the most reliable weather, with sunny days and calm seas that make boat transfers more pleasant. This is also when the bioluminescent plankton are most visible, though it's also peak tourist season so beaches and accommodations are busier. The shoulder months of May and October can be ideal - fewer crowds and still decent weather, though you might get some rain. The wet season from June through September sees heavy rains and rough seas that can cancel boat services, but if you don't mind the weather, you'll practically have the island to yourself.