Koh Rong, An Ultimate Travel Guide to Cambodia’s Hidden Paradise

Koh Rong, the second largest island in Cambodia, covers an area of 78 km² and boasts 43 kilometers of stunning coastline with over 23 picturesque beaches. According to travel experts, the ideal time to visit is between November and May, when the weather is sunny, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C, low humidity, and clear skies. In recent years, Koh Rong has become an increasingly popular destination, drawing more and more tourists with its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

1.Why should you visit Koh Rong ?

Koh Rong is one of Cambodia’s most stunning, underrated destinations, offering a combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back island vibes that make it well worth the trip. Whether tourists are looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs, or immerse yourself in local culture, Koh Rong has something for everyone to experience, which is why it attracts more and more travelers.

2. How Do You Get to Koh Rong?

Reaching Koh Rong is relatively straightforward, with several travel options depending on where you’re starting your journey in Cambodia. Whether you’re coming from Sihanoukville, Phnom Penh, or Battambang, there are convenient routes to get you to this island paradise.

2.1. Sihanoukville to Koh Rong

The most popular way to reach Koh Rong is from Sihanoukville, the closest major city on the mainland. The journey involves a short boat ride (about 45-60 minutes) from Sihanoukville’s Serendipity Beach or the Sihanoukville Port. There are multiple daily boat services operated by companies and the boats are often fast and comfortable.

2.2. Phnom Penh to Koh Rong

The distance from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is approximately 270 kilometers. However, since there’s no direct road connection to the island, travelers typically take a bus or private car from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, and then continue by ferry or boat to Koh Rong.

Step 1: Bus or Taxi from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville

To get to Koh Rong, you first need to reach Sihanoukville, the closest mainland port. There are a few ways to do this:

• By Bus: The most affordable and common option is to take a bus from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. The bus ride typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses generally depart several times a day from Phnom Penh’s central bus station.
• By Taxi or Private Car: For a more convenient and faster option, you can take a taxi or hire a private car. The drive from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville takes approximately 4 hours. While this is a more expensive option, it offers more flexibility, as you can choose your departure time and travel in comfort. Additionally, some taxis or private cars may offer pick-up directly from your hotel in Phnom Penh.

Step 2: Ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong

Once you arrive in Sihanoukville, the next leg of your journey is the ferry ride to Koh Rong. The ferries typically depart from the Sihanoukville Port or Serendipity Beach Pier, and the ride takes around 45-60 minutes depending on the type of ferry (speedboat or regular ferry).

If you prefer a more direct or unique experience, there are also options like private transfers. However, the bus and ferry combination is by far the most common and cost-effective choice.

2.3. Battambang to Koh Rong

Traveling from Battambang to Koh Rong involves a combination of bus and ferry. Tourists would first take a bus from Battambang to Sihanoukville (roughly 5-6 hours), then transfer to a ferry to reach the island. Some tour operators also offer combined transport packages from Battambang to Koh Rong, simplifying the journey.

3. Things to Do in Koh Rong

Koh Rong offers more than just beautiful beaches. Whether tourists love adventure or relaxation, here are the top activities tourists can enjoy on the island:

3.1. Beach Hopping

Koh Rong is home to some of Cambodia’s most pristine and secluded beaches. Popular spots include Sok San Beach, Long Beach, and the quieter Coral Beach. Each offers a different atmosphere, from bustling with tourists to peaceful and untouched. So tourists can relax on the beach, sunbathing, swimming, or just enjoying the scenery, beach hopping is a must-do activity.

3.2. Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Koh Rong are teeming with marine life, a lot of tourists have a wonderful time when snorkeling or diving trips in this place. Tourists can explore the colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. There are several dive shops on the island that offer guided tours for both beginners and experienced divers.

3.3. Trekking in the Jungle

For nature lovers, Koh Rong offers beautiful jungle trails. Embarking on a guided hike through the lush interior of the island, exploring its dense forests, waterfalls, and spotting local wildlife are awesome moments when traveling in Cambodia. The trek up to the island’s highest point gives travelers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

3.4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

In the destination, tourists will get a chance to have a more active water experience. Kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent ways to explore the coastline of Koh Rong, tourists can rent kayaks or paddle boards from various vendors on the island and enjoy a peaceful paddle along the shoreline or in nearby coves.

3.5. Nighttime Plankton Swimming

One of the unique experiences on Koh Rong is swimming in the bioluminescent plankton. These microscopic organisms light up the water with a beautiful blue glow when disturbed, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Travelers can join night tours where you’ll swim in the glowing water under the starry sky.

3.6. Fishing Trips

If tourists love fishing, Koh Rong offers several fishing trips where  tourists can try your hand at catching some of the local fish species. The tours often include a barbecue where you can enjoy your catch of the day cooked fresh on the boat.

3.7. Try the local food and get a fruit shake

Koh Rong is home to a variety of delicious local dishes, offering a unique taste of Cambodian cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to savor fresh seafood, traditional Cambodian curries, and BBQ, all made with locally sourced ingredients. For a refreshing treat, grab a fruit shake from one of the beachside stands, perfect to cool down under the sun.

4. What to Eat in Koh Rong?

Koh Rong may be a small island, but it offers a variety of delicious food that caters to every taste. Whether you’re craving local Cambodian dishes or international cuisine, here are a few must-try foods:

4.1. Amok (Fish Curry)

One of Cambodia’s most famous dishes, Amok, is a creamy coconut-based curry often made with fish. This traditional dish is a must-try while visiting the island and can be found in most local restaurants.

4.2. Fresh Seafood

Given its coastal location, Koh Rong offers an abundance of fresh seafood. From grilled fish and prawns to crab and squid, you’ll find a variety of seafood dishes prepared in different styles. Make sure to visit a beachfront seafood restaurant for the best experience.

4.3. Noodle Soup (Kuy Teav)

Kuy Teav is a popular Cambodian noodle soup made with rice noodles, herbs, and either beef or pork. It’s a light but flavorful meal that is often enjoyed for breakfast, but you can find it throughout the day.

4.4. Tropical Fruits

The island’s tropical climate means fresh fruit is plentiful. Enjoy refreshing fruits like mango, pineapple, papaya, and coconut straight from the source. You’ll often find fruit stalls or beachfront vendors selling these sweet treats.

5. How Many Days Do You Need in Koh Rong?

While Koh Rong is a small island, the number of days you should spend there depends on your interests and travel pace. For most visitors, 3 to 4 days is ideal to fully explore the island, enjoy its beaches, and take part in various activities. If you prefer a more laid-back trip, you could stay longer to simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

If you plan to visit nearby Koh Rong Samloem or enjoy multiple day trips and activities, you may want to extend your stay to 5-6 days. For a quick beach escape or weekend getaway, 2 days might suffice.

Conclusion 

Koh Rong island offers breathtaking natural beauty, fun activities, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether tourists are enjoying a day on the beach, exploring the jungle, or dining on fresh seafood, Koh Rong promises to be an unforgettable experience.

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