Koh Rong: Cambodia’s Tropical Paradise & Eco-Tours

A Serene Escape in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago

Koh Rong, Cambodia’s second-largest island in the Gulf of Thailand, captivates with its powdery white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, drawing millions to its serene shores and lively Koh Touch village. Located 29 km from Sihanoukville, accessible via a 45-minute ferry ($10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR), Koh Rong offers an idyllic blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, perfect for beach lovers, families, and eco-travelers. From snorkeling coral reefs to witnessing bioluminescent plankton, this island paradise showcases Cambodia’s coastal charm and natural beauty.

Visiting Koh Rong supports sustainable tourism through eco-friendly resorts, marine conservation, and local community initiatives like the Song Saa Foundation. Legend Travel Group, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism ambassador with over 17 years of expertise, integrates Koh Rong into eco-tours for a planet-friendly adventure. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to explore Koh Rong with sustainability and cultural respect

Island Note

Koh Rong’s key areas, like Koh Touch (open 24/7 for nightlife) and Long Set Beach (ideal for relaxation), are accessible via eco-friendly ferries and local boats, ensuring green, authentic experiences in the Koh Rong Archipelago.

Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Koh Rong tours feature sustainable transport, expert guides on Khmer coastal culture, and initiatives preserving marine ecosystems and local communities. Specialists provide insights on Koh Rong, island etiquette, and green travel practices for harmonious adventures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure seamless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save island itineraries, plan eco-focused trips, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your Koh Rong adventure!

Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Koh Rong tours feature sustainable transport, expert guides on Khmer coastal culture, and initiatives preserving marine ecosystems and local communities. Specialists provide insights on Koh Rong, island etiquette, and green travel practices for harmonious adventures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure seamless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save island itineraries, plan eco-focused trips, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your Koh Rong adventure!

Discovering Cambodia’s Island Gem

Exploring Koh Rong offers a perfect mix of pristine beaches, vibrant activities, and cultural immersion, fostering authentic connections with local communities. Here’s your guide to this tropical paradise:

• Cultural Etiquette for Koh Rong:

  • Greetings: Use “sok sabay” (hello) or a smile; engage warmly with locals and staff.

  • Dress: Swimwear for beaches; cover-ups ($5–$8 or 20,000–32,000 KHR) for villages; modest attire respects Khmer norms.

  • Behavior: Avoid loud voices in quiet areas like Long Set Beach; no littering on beaches; respect fishing zones.

  • Eco-Advice: Use biodegradable sunscreen ($6 or 24,000 KHR); support eco-friendly vendors.

  • Tip: Learn “arkun” (thank you); carry small USD/KHR notes for local purchases.

• Top Beaches and Areas:

  • Koh Touch: Vibrant hub with bars, restaurants, and nightlife; budget guesthouses ($10–$25 or 40,000–100,000 KHR). Ideal for party-goers.

    • Tip: Walk to quieter stretches for relaxation.

  • Long Set Beach (4K Beach): Pristine white sand, calm waters; hostels and resorts ($15–$150 or 60,000–600,000 KHR). Perfect for tranquility.

    • Tip: Visit early for clean beaches; morning raking reduces sandflies.

  • Sok San Beach: Serene, less developed; eco-resorts like The Royal Sands ($100–$200 or 400,000–800,000 KHR). Known for “Survivor” filming.

    • Tip: Ideal for peaceful retreats; book ferry to Sok San.

  • Lonely Beach: Secluded northern beach; budget bungalows ($15–$30 or 60,000–120,000 KHR). Best for off-grid escapes.

    • Tip: Access via motorbike ($20/day or 80,000 KHR) for adventure.

• Top Activities:

  • Snorkeling/Diving: Explore coral reefs around Koh Rong; $20–$80 (80,000–320,000 KHR) for tours.

    • Tip: Book through dive shops in Koh Touch for sustainable gear.

  • Bioluminescent Plankton Tour: Swim with glowing plankton at night; $5–$10 (20,000–40,000 KHR). Best at Koh Touch or Long Set Beach.

    • Tip: Visit after dark, away from light pollution.

  • Kayaking: Paddle around islands or mangroves; $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR).

    • Tip: Rent from Long Set Beach for calm waters.

  • Island Hiking: Trek jungle trails to secluded beaches; $15–$25 (60,000–100,000 KHR) for guided tours.

    • Tip: Wear sturdy shoes ($10 or 40,000 KHR) for safety.

  • Beach Relaxation: Lounge at Long Set or Sok San Beach; free or $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR) for drinks.

    • Tip: Use hammocks at resorts for comfort.

• General Tips:

  • Navigation: Pin “Koh Touch, Koh Rong, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me). No roads; use ferries or walking paths.

  • Cash: No ATMs; bring USD/KHR; some resorts offer cash-out with fees ($5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR).

  • Eco-Tip: Support resorts with waste reduction; avoid plastic waste.

  • Tip: Morning visits for beach activities (8:00 AM–11:00 AM); evenings for nightlife or plankton tours.

  • Legend Travel Group tours include eco-friendly island activities.

Note: Activities and costs reflect current island trends; verify ferry schedules and resort policies. Our tours enhance with sustainable practices.

These budget-friendly, eco-activities, $0–$80, enrich your island experience:

1. Snorkel Koh Rong’s Coral Reefs

Explore vibrant marine life, $20–$80 (80,000–320,000 KHR).

• Cost: $20–$80.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses sustainable snorkeling gear.

• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Koh Rong Eco-Snorkel ($80–$120).

2. Swim with Bioluminescent Plankton

Witness glowing waters at night, $5–$10 (20,000–40,000 KHR).

• Cost: $5–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact tours protect marine life.

• Tip: Part of Legend Travel Group’s Plankton Eco-Night ($40–$80).

3. Kayak Around Koh Rong

Paddle to secluded coves, $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR).

• Cost: $10–$20.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Eco-kayaks minimize impact.

• Tip: In Legend Travel Group’s Island Eco-Paddle ($50–$90).

4. Relax at Long Set Beach

Lounge on pristine sands, drinks $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR).

• Cost: $2–$4.

• Hours: Daily, open 24 hours.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support eco-resorts with beach clean-ups.

• Tip: Highlight of Legend Travel Group’s Beach Eco-Chill ($45–$85).

5. Hike to Lonely Beach

Trek through jungle trails, $15–$25 (60,000–100,000 KHR).

• Cost: $15–$25.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Guided eco-tours protect flora.

• Tip: Featured in Legend Travel Group’s Jungle Eco-Trek ($60–$100).

November to March offers mild weather (25–30°C) and calm seas for beach activities, snorkeling, and ferry travel, ideal for island exploration. Avoid April-May heat (up to 35°C) or June-October rains, which may disrupt ferries; February or May balances pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Koh Rong is accessible via Sihanoukville:

• By Air: Fly to Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) from Phnom Penh ($40–$90 or 160,000–360,000 KHR, 1 hour). Transfer: Eco-taxi to port ($10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR, 30 minutes).

• By Bus: Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville (4–5 hours, $10–$25 or 40,000–100,000 KHR). Transfer: Eco-taxi to port ($10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR).

• By Ferry: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong (45 minutes, $10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR). Operators: GTVC, Buva Sea, Speed Ferry Cambodia.

  • Schedule: Ferries run 8:00 AM–5:00 PM to Koh Touch, Long Set, or Sok San.

  • Booking: Book via agencies or Legend Travel Group; 1–2 days early for peak season.

• By Private Car: Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville ($60–$100 or 240,000–400,000 KHR). Book via Legend Travel Group.

• Local: Longtail boats between Koh Rong beaches ($5–$14 or 20,000–56,000 KHR).Navigation Tip: Pin “Koh Touch, Koh Rong, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me). No parking; ferries are main transport.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Shared ferries reduce emissions.

• Travel Tip: Morning ferries (8:00 AM–10:00 AM) ensure daylight beach time.

Pack for a sustainable, tropical journey:

• Documents: Passport, Cambodia visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR); wallet ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).

• Clothing: Swimwear, cover-up ($5–$8 or 20,000–32,000 KHR); light attire for villages.

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR); snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR); biodegradable sunscreen ($6 or 24,000 KHR).

• Tech: Phone with offline maps; charger ($15–$25 or 60,000–100,000 KHR); SIM ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 12,000 KHR); phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Extras: Small USD/KHR for cash-only vendors; travel towel ($5 or 20,000 KHR). Tip: Pack light for island travel; bring cash due to limited ATMs.

Costs for Visiting Koh Rong

Transport Costs

• Bus to Sihanoukville: $10–$25 (40,000–100,000 KHR).

• Ferry to Koh Rong: $10–$15 (40,000–60,000 KHR).

• Eco-Taxi: $10–$15 (40,000–60,000 KHR).

Visa & Accommodation Costs

• Cambodia Visa: $36 (144,000 KHR).

• Budget Stays: $10–$25/night (40,000–100,000 KHR).

• Mid-Range: $50–$150/night (200,000–600,000 KHR).

• Luxury: $200–$500/night (800,000–2,000,000 KHR).

Activity Fees

• Snorkeling/Diving: $20–$80 (80,000–320,000 KHR).

• Plankton Tour: $5–$10 (20,000–40,000 KHR).

• Kayaking: $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR).

• Beach Drinks: $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR).

• Jungle Hike: $15–$25 (60,000–100,000 KHR).

• Souvenirs: $3–$7 (12,000–28,000 KHR).

• Eco-Tour: $20–$35 (80,000–140,000 KHR).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Including Budget Stay)

• Budget: $25–$45 (ferry, guesthouse, street food).

• Mid-Range: $60–$90 (ferry, mid-range resort, snorkeling).

• Luxury: $120–$200 (private car, upscale resort, diving). Tip: Transport $10–$50; visa $36; activities $0–$80; eco-tours add value.

• Etiquette: Use “sok sabay”; respect quiet beaches; avoid littering.

• Transport Choices: Shared ferries for affordability; longtail boats for local exploration.

• Schedules: Morning ferries (8:00 AM–10:00 AM); evening plankton tours (7:00 PM).

• Sustainability: Support eco-resorts; use biodegradable products.

• Navigation: Ferry to beach via longtail boats ($5–$14 or 20,000–56,000 KHR).

• Weather: Dry season (November–March) for clear waters.

• Cultural Note: Engage politely with locals; respect fishing communities.

• Legend Tours: Eco-activities and cultural briefings included.

Explore Koh Rong with our eco-tours:

• Koh Rong Eco-Snorkel ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Snorkeling with eco-snack ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR). Guide, tips included.

• Plankton Eco-Night ($40–$80/person, half day): Bioluminescent swim, sustainable practices.

• Cambodia Island Explorer ($280–$400/person, 4 days): Multi-island tour with eco-lodges, meals, green transfers. Prices include guides, sustainable logistics, fees. 25% off for groups of 4+! Register a free account to track, save, and tailor your Koh Rong itinerary.

Koh Rong, Cambodia’s tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, captivates with its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich marine biodiversity, accessible via a short ferry from Sihanoukville ($10–$20 or 40,000–80,000 KHR). From snorkeling in crystal waters to exploring Koh Touch’s lively scene or witnessing bioluminescent plankton, this island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-resorts and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Koh Rong Tours guide you through this coastal gem, ensuring a sustainable Koh Rong Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss Koh Rong’s tropical allure—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to dive into Koh Rong’s island paradise? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Cambodia’s coastal splendor!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.