Koh Rong is a tropical island located in southwestern Cambodia, in the Gulf of Cambodia, about 25 kilometers off the coast of Sihanoukville. As Cambodia’s second-largest island, it is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere, offering a unique blend of backpacker culture, natural beauty, and growing eco-resort development.
Koh Rong is home to nearly 43 kilometers of beautiful coastline, with white sandy beaches lined by coral reefs and backed by lush forested hills that rise to around 320 meters above sea level. Much of the island’s interior remains covered in dense tropical jungle, while its coastline is dotted with wide scenic bays such as Long Beach in Sok San and Long Set Beach. The island also supports rich biodiversity, including tropical hardwood forests, vibrant coral gardens, and diverse marine life such as parrotfish, seahorses, and other tropical sea species.
Tourism on Koh Rong ranges from simple bamboo bungalows to luxury eco-resorts, including the nearby Song Saa Private Island. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, jungle trekking, and scuba diving courses offered by local dive centers. One of the island’s most unforgettable experiences is swimming among glowing bioluminescent plankton, which can often be seen on dark, moonless nights. Areas like Police Beach and Koh Touch Village are known for their lively nightlife and occasional full-moon parties, while quieter spots such as Lonely Beach offer a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and seclusion.
Koh Rong has relatively limited infrastructure, with few paved roads across the island. Most local travel is done by boat or on footpaths that connect the main beaches and villages. Regular ferry services from Sihanoukville, operated by companies such as Buva Sea and GTVC Speedboat, run several times a day and serve as the primary link to the mainland. Electricity is mainly provided by local generators, while internet connectivity remains limited but is gradually improving. In addition, plans have been discussed for a small airport to support future tourism development on the island.
Koh Rong has a tropical monsoon climate, with a clear dry season from November to May that brings sunny weather and calm seas—ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving. From June to October, the island enters its rainy season, when heavy showers are more frequent and sea conditions can become rougher, but the landscape turns especially lush and green, offering a different kind of natural beauty.