Travel

Koh Rong, Cambodia: The Top Things to Do

Petrina Darrah

Posted: April 27, 2023

Koh Rong is a tropical paradise island off the coast of Cambodia that is becoming increasingly popular among backpackers and tourists. Known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, Koh Rong is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in a beautiful natural setting. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do in Koh Rong and provide tips on how to make the most of your visit to this amazing island.

Getting to Koh Rong

Getting to Koh Rong is relatively easy, with several ferry companies operating daily services from Sihanoukville. Sihanoukville is the nearest port to Koh Rong, and the boats depart from the Serendipity Pier or Ochheuteal Beach. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the weather conditions, and the cost is around $20 to $25 for a round trip. The boats are usually very comfortable and offer a great opportunity to take in the views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

Top things to do in Koh Rong

Relax and soak up the sun on the beaches

Koh Rong is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal clear waters and powdery white sand. There are several beaches on Koh Rong, each with its unique character and charm. Long Beach is the most popular beach on the island and stretches for over 7 km. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding islands. Sok San Beach is a more secluded and peaceful beach, ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter beach experience. Lonely Beach is the place to go if you are looking for a more adventurous experience. It is a remote beach located in the southern part of the island and is accessible only by boat. The beach is surrounded by dense jungle, and there are several hiking trails to explore.

Explore the island’s natural beauty

Koh Rong is not just about beaches and sunshine; the island is also home to some amazing natural wonders that are waiting to be discovered. The island is covered in dense jungle, which is home to several species of exotic birds and animals, including monkeys, lizards, and snakes. There are several nature trails on the island that lead to waterfalls and other natural attractions. The most popular trail is the Koh Rong Waterfall Trail, which takes you through dense jungle to a beautiful waterfall. Along the way, you can spot several species of birds and animals, including the endangered pangolin.

Enjoy water activities

If you are a water sports enthusiast, then Koh Rong is the perfect destination for you. The island offers a wide range of water activities, including scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing trips. The waters around Koh Rong are crystal clear, and marine life is abundant. There are several diving schools on the island that offer diving courses for beginners as well as advanced divers. The diving spots around Koh Rong are known for their colourful coral reefs and a variety of marine life, including barracudas, stingrays, and sharks. Snorkelling is also a popular activity on the island, and you can rent snorkelling gear from several shops on the beaches. Fishing trips are another great way to explore the waters around Koh Rong and to catch some of the delicious fish that inhabit these waters.

Experience the local culture

Koh Rong is also a great place to experience the local culture and customs of Cambodia. The island has a small fishing village where the locals live, and you can take a guided tour to learn about their way of life and how they make a living. You can also visit the local markets, where you can find fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, as well as handicrafts made by the locals. The markets are a great place to interact with the locals and to learn about their customs and traditions.

Party the night away

If you are looking for a lively nightlife scene, Koh Rong has plenty to offer. There are several bars and clubs on the island that offer a range of music and entertainment. The beach parties are particularly popular, with several bars hosting nightly events where you can dance the night away under the stars. The Full Moon Party, which is held once a month, is the biggest party on the island and attracts party-goers from all over the world.

Tips for visiting Koh Rong

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Koh Rong:

Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent, as the sun can be strong and there are mosquitoes on the island.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike or explore the jungle trails.
Bring cash with you, as there are no ATMs on the island and not all businesses accept credit cards.
Respect the local customs and traditions, and be mindful of the environment by not littering or damaging the natural surroundings.

Other Adventures in Cambodia

While Koh Rong is a beautiful destination in Cambodia, there are plenty of other adventures to be had in this fascinating country. From exploring ancient temples to volunteering with local organisations, there are endless opportunities to discover the culture and history of Cambodia.

Visit Angkor Wat

No trip to Cambodia would be complete without a visit to Angkor Wat, one of the most impressive ancient temples in the world. Built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and art. The temple complex is massive, with dozens of temples, pagodas, and shrines to explore, and it can take several days to see everything.

Volunteer with GVI

If you want to give back while you travel, consider volunteering with GVI in Cambodia. GVI offers a variety of volunteer programs, including teaching English and helping with community development. Volunteers work alongside local communities to make a positive impact and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture and society.

Explore the countryside

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the countryside of Cambodia. There are several rural areas that offer a glimpse into traditional Cambodian life, including farming communities, fishing villages, and handicraft centres. You can take a bike tour or a guided excursion to explore these areas and learn about the daily lives of the locals.

Koh Rong is a beautiful island that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you want to relax on the beaches, explore the natural beauty of the island, or party the night away, Koh Rong has something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, Koh Rong is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a relaxing vacation in a beautiful natural setting. So, pack your bags and head to Koh Rong for an unforgettable experience!

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

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