Koh Rong Island

Discover Koh Rong: Cambodia’s Underrated Island Paradise

Tucked away in Cambodia’s tranquil southwest coast lies one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful island getaways—Koh Rong. Just a short 45-minute ferry ride from the mainland chaos of Sihanoukville, this tropical gem offers the ultimate escape for travelers seeking crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and a laid-back island vibe.

Koh Rong is home to over a dozen stunning beaches, each with its own charm—from the lively buzz of Koh Touch to the serene seclusion of Long Set Beach. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic retreat, a digital detox, or a sun-soaked adventure, Koh Rong’s unspoiled beauty and welcoming locals create the perfect backdrop.

Forget the noise of the mainland. On Koh Rong, time slows down. Hammocks sway in the breeze, sunsets blaze over turquoise waters, and the only decision you’ll need to make is whether to snorkel, kayak, or simply relax with a coconut in hand.

Travel Guide

1. Transportation Tips for Koh Rong Travelers

1.1 How to Get to Koh Rong

Getting to Koh Rong is part of the adventure. The island isn’t connected by bridge or airport, so all visitors must arrive by ferry from Sihanoukville. If you’re coming from Phnom Penh, the most common route is via a minibus or private transfer, which takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.

Once you reach Sihanoukville, hop on one of the frequent ferries heading to Koh Rong. Several operators run daily services, and we highly recommend taking the earliest ferry available—not only to make the most of your time on the island, but also because Sihanoukville itself offers little for travelers these days.

Most ferries dock at Koh Touch (White Beach), the island’s main arrival point and a hub for guesthouses, restaurants, and nightlife. From there, you can continue your journey to more remote parts of the island by longtail boat or trekking inland.

1.2 Getting Around Koh Rong

Koh Rong is the larger of the two main islands (the other being Koh Rong Samloem) and offers more varied terrain and access to hidden beaches.

While walking is the best way to explore nearby attractions, longtail boats are commonly used to reach quieter beaches like Long Set (4K) Beach, Sok San Beach, or Palm Beach. For the more adventurous, motorbike or scooter rentals are available—just be aware that roads are rugged and often unpaved, especially in the southern and western parts of the island. Expect some bumpy rides and prepare to drive along sandy shores in certain areas.

2. When to Visit Koh Rong: Weather & Seasons

The best time to visit Koh Rong is during the dry season, from December to March, when skies are blue, the sea is calm, and the temperature hovers around 30°C during the day—perfect for beach activities and island-hopping. Nights cool down to a pleasant 22°C, making it ideal for evenings outdoors.

Here’s a breakdown of Koh Rong’s seasons:

  • Dry Season (Mid-November – Early May): The most popular time to visit. Great for sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and clear water visibility.

  • Hot Shoulder Season (April – May): Warmer temperatures and rising humidity as the wet season approaches. Still a good time to visit for those seeking fewer crowds.

  • Wet Season (June – September): Expect frequent rain showers and occasional storms, especially in the afternoons. The island is quieter during these months, and boat services may be limited.

  • Cool Down (October – Early November): Rain begins to taper off, and the island starts to dry out. A great time for travelers looking for a peaceful experience before the peak season begins.

Places Of Interest

Sok San Beach – Koh Rong’s Hidden Slice of Paradise

Tucked away on the western coast of Koh Rong, Sok San Beach is often considered the crown jewel of the island — and for good reason. This seemingly endless stretch of powdery white sand is framed by crystal-clear turquoise waters and a tranquil backdrop of lush greenery, creating a picture-perfect tropical escape that feels worlds away from the island’s busier beaches.

What sets Sok San apart isn’t just its beauty — it’s the peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere that invites you to slow down. Whether you’re sunbathing in solitude, taking a long barefoot walk along the shoreline, or catching a sunset that melts into the ocean, Sok San delivers a quiet magic that many visitors miss.

Even if you’re staying on another part of the island, Sok San is absolutely worth the trip. You can reach it via a scenic boat ride or even by trekking through Koh Rong’s dense jungle trails — a mini adventure that adds to the charm. Unlike the more developed parts of Koh Rong, Sok San retains a local village vibe, where traditional Khmer life still thrives alongside a few laid-back resorts and beachfront bungalows.

If you’re searching for the most beautiful beach in Koh Rong, a secluded coastal experience, or just a break from the crowds, Sok San Beach should be at the top of your list.

Sok San Beach Resort $58. Koh Rong Hotel Deals & Reviews - KAYAK

Lonely Beach – Koh Rong’s Most Secluded Slice of Paradise

If you’re searching for the most untouched and secluded beach on Koh Rong, look no further than Lonely Beach. Nestled in a hidden cove on the island’s remote northern shore, this postcard-perfect beach delivers an atmosphere that feels like you’ve stumbled onto a private island — no crowds, no loud music, just nature in its purest form.

With silky white sand, swaying palm trees, and glass-clear waters, Lonely Beach is where time seems to slow down. The only soundtrack here is the whisper of ocean waves and the occasional chirp of crickets. It’s the kind of place that invites you to disconnect — to walk barefoot, read a book under the shade of a palm, or simply take in the horizon with no distractions.

Getting here is part of the adventure. Lonely Beach is only accessible by boat or, for the more daring, by scooter through dense jungle trails — adding to its sense of exclusivity. The journey from Sihanoukville can take 2 to 3 hours and often involves a bumpy ride on smaller boats that might not be ideal in choppy weather. But for those seeking Koh Rong’s best hidden beach, the reward is well worth the effort.

There are no big resorts here — just a small eco-friendly guesthouse tucked behind the treeline, offering rustic charm and sustainable comforts. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who crave raw beauty, solitude, and an escape from the mainstream.

Best Hostels in Lonely Beach | Fun, Cheap & Comfortable Hostels in Lonely Beach | 2022 Prices

Lazy Beach – A Hidden Gem on Koh Rong Samloem

Tucked away on the west coast of Koh Rong Samloem, Lazy Beach is one of Cambodia’s best-kept secrets — so much so that National Geographic named it one of the “Top 21 Beaches in the World.” And once you arrive, it’s easy to see why.

This secluded cove is all about raw, untouched beauty. The powder-soft sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a dramatic mountain backdrop create a surreal setting that feels like a scene from a castaway fantasy. The vibe? Unhurried, peaceful, and profoundly relaxing. The gentle lapping of the sea and the occasional chirp of crickets set the tone for a perfect tropical escape.

But this paradise takes a little effort to reach — and that’s part of its charm. Lazy Beach isn’t directly accessible by public boats. Instead, you can either take a private taxi boat from Saracen Bay or embrace the 40-minute jungle trail that weaves through the heart of the island. While the walk is scenic and shaded, it can be a challenge if you’re hauling luggage, so pack light and wear proper shoes (trainers or hiking sandals are best).

Once you arrive, the reward is a beach that feels worlds away from everything. There’s a small, eco-conscious bungalow resort here — no Wi-Fi, no noise, just hammocks, snorkel gear, and a front-row seat to some of the best sunsets in Southeast Asia.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a digital nomad craving disconnection, or just someone looking for a beach that truly lives up to the name Lazy, this is your spot.

Kinh nghiệm du lịch Koh Rong Samloem tự túc 2022 + video | Phuotvivu

Saracen Bay – The Heartbeat of Koh Rong Samloem

Saracen Bay is the vibrant soul of Koh Rong Samloem — and the most accessible and visitor-friendly destination on the island. Fringed by soft white sands and calm, crystal-clear waters, this crescent-shaped beach is perfect for those seeking a laid-back escape without straying too far off the map.

Thanks to its central location, all major ferry routes from Sihanoukville drop anchor here, making Saracen Bay the gateway to the island. But while it’s more developed than other parts of Samloem, it still holds onto its tropical charm — picture beachfront bungalows, hammocks swaying in the breeze, and sunsets that melt into the sea.

Over the last couple of years, Saracen Bay has undergone a gentle transformation. New resorts, boutique guesthouses, local shops, and guided excursions have sprung up along the coast, offering travelers a balance between comfort and nature. Whether you need essentials like bug spray, sunscreen, snorkeling gear, or just a good beachside cocktail, you’ll find it here — no need to pack everything in advance.

What makes Saracen Bay especially appealing is its versatility. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. You can kayak through the mangroves, take a short jungle trek to Lazy Beach, or simply lounge with a coconut in hand and let the hours drift by.

If you’re looking for a beach that offers ease, comfort, and stunning scenery — with just enough infrastructure to keep things convenient — Saracen Bay is the perfect place to start your Koh Rong Samloem adventure.

Những lý do để tới viên ngọc báu vật Koh Rong Samloem