Imagine turquoise waters lapping against powdery white sand, dense jungle meeting the sea, and nights lit by glowing plankton. Welcome to Koh Rong – Cambodia’s untouched island paradise.
Located just off the coast of Sihanoukville in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong (Khmer: កោះរ៉ុង) is Cambodia’s second-largest island, spanning approximately 78–102 km² with over 60 km of pristine coastline. Unlike Thailand’s crowded islands, Koh Rong remains relatively undeveloped, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island life.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for 2026 – from ferry schedules and beach hopping to accommodation, budgeting, and insider tips.
⚡ Quick Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gulf of Thailand, 25 km offshore from Sihanoukville |
| Ferry time | 30–45 minutes from Sihanoukville |
| Best time to visit | November – May (dry season) |
| Recommended stay | 2–4 days |
| Daily budget (budget) | $25–35 |
| Daily budget (mid-range) | $50–80 |
| Main hub | Koh Touch Village (ferries, nightlife, budget stays) |
| Quiet beaches | Long Set Beach, Sok San Beach, Lonely Beach |
🗺️ How to Get to Koh Rong
Step 1: Reach Sihanoukville
By bus from major cities:
| From | Duration | Cost (USD) | Operator Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | 4–5 hours | $8–12 | Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham |
| Siem Reap | 10–12 hours | $15–20 | Night buses available |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 11–12 hours | $20–25 | Combined ferry+bus tickets |
By flight: Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) has domestic flights from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (approx. $50–80 one way).
Step 2: Ferry to Koh Rong
From Serendipity Pier in Sihanoukville, two ferry options are available:
💡 Tip: Book round-trip tickets in advance during peak season (November–February). The return ticket from speed ferries can usually be used on any departure day .
Ferries arrive at Koh Touch Pier – the island’s main entry point and social hub.
🏖️ Best Beaches on Koh Rong
Koh Rong is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches. Here are the must-visit spots:
🥇 Long Set Beach (aka 4K Beach)
| Vibe | Quiet, romantic, stunning sunsets |
| Access | 15-minute walk from Koh Touch or short boat ride |
| Best for | Swimming, kayaking, sunset photography |
Long Set Beach lives up to its name – a beautiful stretch of soft white sand with calm, clear waters. It’s significantly quieter than Koh Touch, making it ideal for couples and travelers seeking peace. The sunset views here are among the best on the island.
🥈 Sok San Beach
| Vibe | Remote, untouched, tranquil |
| Access | Boat from Koh Touch ($5–10) or jungle trek |
| Best for | Complete disconnection, swimming |
Located on the western side of the island, Sok San Beach is Koh Rong’s most secluded major beach. With few accommodations and no crowds, it’s perfect for those wanting to truly escape. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is powdery soft.
🥉 Koh Touch Beach
| Vibe | Lively, social, convenient |
| Access | Steps from the pier |
| Best for | Backpackers, nightlife, dining |
Koh Touch is the island’s main village and ferry port. The beach itself is pleasant, but the real draw is the strip of bars, restaurants, and hostels lining the shore. If you want to meet other travelers and enjoy nightlife, stay near Koh Touch.
🌴 Lonely Beach (Coconut Beach)
| Vibe | Ultra-remote, rustic, adventurous |
| Access | Jungle trek (25–30 minutes) or boat |
| Best for | Seclusion, camping, digital detox |
True to its name, Lonely Beach is Koh Rong’s most isolated beach. Accessible only by a jungle path or boat, it offers basic bungalows and a true “castaway” experience. No Wi-Fi, limited electricity – just you and nature.
Police Beach
| Vibe | Party central (on Full Moon nights) |
| Access | Short walk from Koh Touch |
| Best for | Full Moon Party, daytime chill |
By day, Police Beach is a quiet spot for swimming. But on Full Moon nights, it transforms into the island’s main party venue with DJs, fire shows, and dancing until sunrise.
🌊 Top Things to Do in Koh Rong
1. 🐠 Snorkeling & Diving
The waters around Koh Rong are teeming with marine life. Most boat tours include snorkeling stops at coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, sea cucumbers, and occasionally small reef sharks. For certified divers, there are over a dozen dive sites nearby, with PADI courses available from shops in Koh Touch.
Boat Trip Options:
- Half-day snorkeling tour: $10–15 (includes equipment, lunch, multiple stops)
- Full-day island hopping: $20–25 (snorkeling + remote beaches + sunset)
⚠️ Safety note: The seabed can be rocky. Bring water shoes or fins to avoid cuts.
2. ✨ Bioluminescent Plankton (Night Tour)
One of Koh Rong’s most magical experiences. On moonless nights, the sea lights up with glowing plankton when disturbed – like swimming through liquid stars.
| Tour Type | Cost | Duration | Best season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group boat tour | $8–12 | 1–2 hours | November–May |
| Private kayak tour | $15–20 | 1–2 hours | Same |
The plankton is most visible during dry season (November–May) and on new moon nights.
3. 🌿 Jungle Trekking
Koh Rong’s interior is covered in dense jungle with trails leading to hidden beaches and viewpoints. The most popular hike is from Koh Touch to Sok San Beach (approximately 1.5–2 hours one way). On the way, you’ll pass through lush forest, may spot monkeys and tropical birds, and cross seasonal streams.
💡 Guided treks are recommended for longer routes. A guide costs $10–15 and provides safety and local knowledge.
4. 🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are available for rent at most beachfront resorts ($5–10 per hour). Paddle to small offshore islets, explore mangrove channels, or simply cruise along the calm bays of Long Set Beach.
5. 🌅 Sunset Boat Cruise
Several operators offer sunset cruises that include snorkeling, fishing, and a barbecue dinner on a remote beach. These typically depart around 2–3 PM and return after dark. Cost: $15–25 per person.
6. 🧗 High Point Adventure Park
For adrenaline seekers, this treetop obstacle course features zip-lines, rope bridges, and jungle views. Suitable for all skill levels, with safety gear provided. Cost: $15–20.
7. 🎉 Full Moon Party (Police Beach)
Koh Rong’s most famous event happens monthly on Police Beach. Expect:
- Live DJs playing EDM, reggae, and hip-hop
- Fire dancers and UV lights
- Drink buckets and beach bars
- Dancing until sunrise
The party usually winds down around noon the next day. Entry is $10–12.50, sometimes including a free t-shirt.
🏨 Where to Stay in Koh Rong
Accommodation ranges from rustic jungle bungalows to comfortable resorts. Your choice depends on your budget and desired vibe.
💸 Budget ($8–25/night)
Budget stays are concentrated in Koh Touch Village. Expect basic facilities, shared bathrooms, and a lively backpacker atmosphere.
💼 Mid-Range ($30–70/night)
Treehouse Bungalows is a unique option at $55/night. Each bungalow sits in the jungle just steps from the beach. Note: no hot water and electricity is limited (7 AM – 8 PM) – but that’s part of the authentic island experience.
🏆 Luxury ($80–150+/night)
Luxury resorts offer air conditioning, hot water, pools, and reliable electricity – a welcome comfort after a sweaty day on the island.
📍 Area Comparison
| Area | Vibe | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koh Touch Village | Lively, social, noisy | Backpackers, party-goers | $8–40 |
| Long Set Beach | Quiet, scenic, romantic | Couples, mid-range travelers | $30–150+ |
| Sok San Beach | Remote, tranquil, upscale | Honeymooners, luxury seekers | $80–200+ |
| Lonely Beach | Rustic, adventurous, offline | Campers, digital detox | $10–25 |
🍜 Food & Dining
Koh Rong’s food scene is a mix of fresh seafood, Khmer classics, and Western comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Description | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Amok | Steamed fish in coconut curry, served in banana leaf | $6–10 |
| Beef Lok Lak | Stir-fried beef with lime-pepper sauce, rice, fried egg | $5–8 |
| Grilled Seafood | Fresh prawns, squid, or fish grilled over charcoal | $6–12 per platter |
| Kampot Pepper Crab | Crab stir-fried with locally grown Kampot pepper | $10–15 |
| Nom Banh Chok | Khmer noodles with green fish curry | $3–5 |
Where to Eat
| Location | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Koh Touch restaurants | Variety, Western options, beach BBQs | $3–12 |
| Long Set Beach resorts | Higher-end Khmer + international | $8–20 |
| Night market (near pier) | Cheap street food, grilled skewers | $1–4 |
💡 Tip: Beach BBQs in Koh Touch Village are excellent value – fresh grilled seafood with rice and salad for $5–8.
Dining Tips
- Most restaurants offer both Khmer and Western menus.
- Service can be slow – embrace “island time.”
- Fresh seafood availability depends on the daily catch.
- Vegetarian/vegan options are available at most places.
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated (5–10%).
🌙 Nightlife
Koh Rong’s nightlife is centered around Koh Touch Village and Police Beach.
| Venue/Event | Vibe | When | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nest Beach Club | Saturday night party, free beer 3–4 PM | Saturdays | $10–12.50 |
| Full Moon Party | DJs, fire dancers, drink buckets | Monthly (full moon) | $10–12.50 |
| Beach bars (Koh Touch) | Chill music, bonfires, happy hours | Nightly | Free entry, drinks $2–5 |
| Police Beach bars | Pre/post-party hangouts | Weekend nights | Free entry |
The Full Moon Party is the island’s signature event. If your trip coincides with the full moon, don’t miss it.
📅 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Weather | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dry) | November–February | Cool, sunny, low humidity | Best water clarity, perfect for swimming | Crowded, higher prices |
| Shoulder | March–May | Hot, dry | Still good weather, fewer crowds | Very hot (35°C+) |
| Low (Rainy) | June–October | Afternoon showers, humid | Lush landscapes, cheapest rates | Rough seas, some ferry cancellations |
Recommended: November–February for first-time visitors. May–October is still possible but book ferries with flexibility.
💰 Sample Budget Breakdown (3 Days / 2 Nights)
Budget Traveler ($100 total)
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ferry (round trip) | $20 |
| Dorm bed / basic bungalow (2 nights) | $20 |
| Food (street food + local meals) | $25 ($8/day) |
| Snorkeling boat trip | $12 |
| Plankton night tour | $8 |
| Water, snacks, misc | $15 |
| Total | $100 |
Mid-Range Traveler ($220 total)
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ferry (round trip) | $25 |
| Private bungalow (2 nights, mid-range) | $70 |
| Food (mix of local + resort dining) | $50 |
| Snorkeling + sunset cruise | $25 |
| Kayak rental | $10 |
| Transport, tips, misc | $40 |
| Total | $220 |
🎒 Packing Essentials
⚠️ Important Tips & Warnings
🏧 Bring Enough Cash
There is only one ATM on Koh Rong, and it frequently runs out of cash or is offline. Most places accept only cash (USD or Cambodian Riel). Bring enough for your entire stay .
🔌 Prepare for Power Cuts
Electricity is not 24/7 in many budget and mid-range accommodations. Some bungalows have power only from late afternoon to early morning. Always carry a charged power bank .
🦟 Sand Flies & Mosquitoes
Sand flies on the beach can be aggressive, especially at dawn and dusk. Use repellent and consider wearing long pants or a sarong in the evenings .
🚿 No Hot Water (Budget Stays)
Many budget bungalows and some mid-range options do not have hot water. Be prepared for refreshing (cold) showers – it’s part of the rustic island experience .
📶 Limited Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in Koh Touch and some resorts but can be slow or unreliable. If you need to work, consider staying at a higher-end resort or accept that you may be offline.
🚤 Ferry Schedules & Seasickness
Ferries can be cancelled during heavy rain (June–October). The crossing can be rough – bring motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness .
🏥 Medical Facilities
There is no proper hospital on Koh Rong. For serious issues, you’ll need to return to Sihanoukville. Bring a basic first-aid kit.
📸 Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Koh Touch
- Morning: Take morning ferry from Sihanoukville (arrives Koh Touch by 11 AM).
- Afternoon: Check into accommodation, lunch at a beachfront restaurant, swim at Koh Touch Beach.
- Evening: Sunset drinks at a beach bar, dinner at a BBQ spot, explore the nightlife.
Day 2: Snorkeling & Bioluminescence
- Morning: Join a snorkeling boat trip (departs 9–10 AM). Visit coral reefs, remote beaches, enjoy included lunch.
- Afternoon: Return around 3 PM, relax, walk to Long Set Beach for sunset.
- Evening: Plankton night tour ($8–12) – swim among glowing plankton. Dinner in Koh Touch.
Day 3: Beach Day & Departure
- Morning: Sunrise swim, breakfast. Option: Rent a kayak or hike to a nearby viewpoint.
- Afternoon: Check out, take afternoon ferry back to Sihanoukville (last ferry usually around 3–4 PM).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Koh Rong from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh?
Take a bus to Sihanoukville (4–5 hours from Phnom Penh, 10–12 hours from Siem Reap), then ferry to Koh Rong. Night buses are available from Siem Reap.
Is Koh Rong safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Koh Rong is very safe. Solo travelers, including women, visit regularly. Use common sense – secure valuables, avoid isolated beaches alone at night, and stick to well-lit areas.
Are there ATMs on Koh Rong?
Only one ATM at Koh Touch. It is unreliable and often empty. Bring enough cash for your entire stay .
Can I use credit cards?
Most budget and mid-range places are cash only. Some resorts and larger restaurants accept cards, but expect a 3–5% surcharge.
Is there Wi-Fi on Koh Rong?
Yes, in Koh Touch and at most resorts, but speed and reliability vary. Some remote beaches have no signal at all.
What’s the best beach for swimming?
Long Set Beach and Sok San Beach have the calmest, clearest waters. Koh Touch Beach can be choppy near the pier.
Can I rent a motorbike on Koh Rong?
Yes, motorbike rentals are available ($6–10/day). However, many roads are unpaved and can be muddy after rain. Only experienced riders should attempt .
Is Koh Rong good for families?
Yes, but stay at Long Set Beach or Sok San Beach (quieter, safer swimming). Avoid Koh Touch if you want peace and quiet.
🔗 Plan Your Cambodia Trip
Use these guides to build your complete Cambodia itinerary:
- Siem Reap Travel Guide 2026
- Phnom Penh Travel Guide 2026
- Cambodia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Cambodia Travel Cost 2026
- Best Street Food in Siem Reap
- 3-Day Angkor Wat Itinerary
📢 Disclaimer
Island conditions, ferry schedules, and prices may change without notice. The information in this guide is based on current data (as of April 2026). Always verify ferry times with local operators before traveling. This site is not liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in services.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Koh Rong is a slice of tropical paradise that still feels undiscovered. Whether you’re dancing at a Full Moon Party, snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, or simply swinging in a hammock with a coconut in hand, the island offers a genuine escape from the ordinary.
Come with cash, an open mind, and a willingness to disconnect – and Koh Rong will reward you with memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to go? Start with a morning ferry from Sihanoukville and let the adventure begin.