Koh Rong
Koh Rong
Koh Rong is an island located off of the southern Cambodian coast in the gulf of Thailand. The island is known for its dense jungle terrain, tropical beaches, coral reefs and lively nightlife.
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Things to do in Koh Rong
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Explore Long Beach
Long Beach is a breathtaking expanse of soft white sand that stretches for miles, offering the perfect setting to relax and bask in the sun. The water here is crystal clear and calm, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. Along the beach, you'll come across a few casual bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a cold drink or a quick meal.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, you can take a scenic walk to the far end of the beach, which takes about 2-3 hours each way. The walk provides stunning views and an opportunity to explore the island's quieter, less developed areas. At night, don’t forget to look for the bioluminescent plankton that illuminate the water with a soft glow – it’s a truly magical sight that adds a special touch to your beach experience.
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Try stand-up paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun and easy way to explore the coastline of Koh Rong. It’s beginner-friendly, making it a great activity for people of all ages and fitness levels. Coconut Beach is an ideal location to try it out, offering calm waters and stunning views.
Paddling along the water gives you a unique perspective of the island’s shores. As you glide across, you might spot fish swimming beneath your board. If you venture further, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the beach and the lush, jungle-covered hills.
Many places along the beach offer paddleboard rentals by the hour or day. For a truly memorable experience, consider paddling during early morning or sunset, when the water is at its calmest and the scenery is especially beautiful.
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Snorkel at Koh Toch Beach
Koh Toch Beach is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful marine life, making it an underwater wonderland. Grab your mask and fins, and dive into a world of vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. You might even spot some seahorses or octopuses if you're lucky!
The beach itself is stunning, with soft white sand and swaying palm trees. It's the perfect spot to relax between snorkeling sessions. Don't forget to bring your underwater camera to capture the magical moments beneath the waves. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, Koh Toch Beach offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
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Night Swimming with Bioluminescent Plankton
One of the most magical experiences on Koh Rong is swimming with bioluminescent plankton at night. As darkness falls, head to Long Set Beach where these tiny organisms light up the water like a starry sky. It's like swimming in a sea of blue sparkles – totally surreal and unforgettable!
The best time to see this natural phenomenon is on a moonless night. Wade into the warm water and watch as your movements create swirls of glowing blue light around you. It's a bit like being in your own personal galaxy. This activity is not only beautiful but also educational, as you learn about these fascinating marine creatures. Just remember to be respectful of the environment and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb the plankton.
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Scuba dive at coral reefs
Koh Rong’s underwater world is just as stunning as its beaches. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs that are home to an abundance of marine life. Scuba diving here lets you encounter colorful tropical fish, seahorses, nudibranchs, and occasionally sea turtles or reef sharks.
The island offers dive sites for various experience levels. Beginners can enjoy shallow dives close to the shore, while more advanced divers can explore deeper locations with stronger currents. Many dive centers on the island provide courses for newcomers and guided dives for certified divers. With warm water year-round, Koh Rong is a great diving destination no matter the season. It’s an incredible way to experience the hidden beauty beneath the island’s crystal-clear waters.
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Kayak through mangrove forests
Kayaking through the mangrove forests of Koh Rong offers a truly memorable experience. As you navigate the narrow channels, you'll be immersed in lush greenery and the fascinating root structures of the mangroves. It's a calm and tranquil environment, far removed from the lively beaches.
Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way – vibrant birds, fish darting through the waters, and even monkeys in the trees. The mangroves are vital to the island’s ecosystem, and paddling through them gives you a closer look at their unique beauty and ecological importance.
Many guesthouses and tour operators on the island provide kayak rentals or guided tours, making it easy to embark on this peaceful adventure and explore the natural wonders of the mangrove forests.
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Hike to Sok San Village
For those seeking a break from the beaches, a hike to Sok San Village is a perfect choice. The trail winds through Koh Rong's lush jungle, giving you a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty up close. Along the way, you'll pass towering trees, vibrant flowers, and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
Sok San Village is a traditional Cambodian fishing community, offering a stark contrast to the island's more touristy areas. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about local life, interact with friendly villagers, watch fishermen in action, and perhaps sample freshly caught seafood.
The hike typically takes around 2-3 hours each way, so it's important to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. Starting early in the morning will help you avoid the midday heat, ensuring a more enjoyable trek.
Where to stay in Koh Rong
Best hotels in Koh Rong:
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Happy Elephant Bungalows (budget hotel)
Happy Elephant Bungalows on Koh Rong Island is a great spot for anyone looking to chill out away from the crowds. It's just a quick stroll from Koh Toch Beach, so you're never far from the sand and sea. The rooms are simple but comfy, with everything you need for a relaxing island stay. Some even have balconies where you can sit and enjoy the garden views.
The staff here are super friendly and always ready to help out. They keep the place clean and tidy, and they can even set you up with fishing trips if you're feeling adventurous. While it's not right on the main street, you can still easily walk to nearby beaches and restaurants. And with free WiFi and parking, you don't have to worry about staying connected or where to leave your wheels.
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Nice Beach Bungalow (homestay)
Nice Beach Bungalow on Koh Rong island is a slice of paradise. The bungalows sit right on Coconut Beach, with soft white sand and crystal clear turquoise water just steps away. It's the perfect spot to relax in a hammock under swaying palm trees or take a refreshing dip in the sea.
The friendly staff go out of their way to make guests feel welcome. The on-site restaurant serves up delicious local and Western dishes, and the bar is great for sipping cocktails while watching stunning sunsets. Activities like snorkeling, kayaking and boat trips are easy to arrange if you want to explore more of the island.
While the bungalows are basic, they're clean and comfortable with everything you need for a beach getaway. Falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping at the shore is pure bliss. If you're looking for a laid-back tropical escape, Nice Beach Bungalow definitely lives up to its name.
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BeachWalk Koh Rong (luxury hotel)
BeachWalk Koh Rong sits right on Long Set Beach, one of the prettiest spots on Cambodia's Koh Rong Island. It's got that perfect mix of peace and quiet, but you're still close enough to the main jetty if you want to explore. The rooms are comfy and come with free WiFi and AC, which is a big plus in the heat. Some even have awesome sea views that'll make you want to stay in bed all day.
When you're not lounging on the private beach, you can cool off in the outdoor pool or chill in the garden. The restaurant's pretty good too, especially for breakfast - they've got lots of options to choose from. Overall, it's a great place to unwind and soak up some island vibes without being too far from the action.
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Long Set Resort (resort)
Long Set Resort on Koh Rong Island is a real slice of paradise. The beach right in front of the resort is absolutely gorgeous - white sand and clear blue water as far as you can see. It's the kind of place where you can really unwind and forget about the rest of the world for a while.
The rooms are pretty nice and spacious, and there are a couple of great pools if you fancy a change from the beach. The food at the restaurant is pretty good too - they've got a mix of Asian and Western options to keep everyone happy. If you're feeling adventurous, you can go snorkeling or take a boat trip to explore some of the other nearby islands. The staff are super friendly and always ready to help out with whatever you need.
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Best hostels in Koh Rong:
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Onederz Koh Rong (boutique hostel)
Onederz Koh Rong is right on Long Set Beach, easily one of the best spots on the island. The place has a chill vibe with lots of loungers and chairs set up on the sand, perfect for lazy beach days. The rooms are super clean and comfy - you can choose between dorms or private rooms with balconies.
The common areas are great for hanging out, with a pool table and plenty of seating. The food and drinks are really good too. One handy thing is that you can pay by card here, which isn't always possible on the island. The staff are friendly and helpful if you need anything.
Overall, it's a fantastic place to stay on Koh Rong if you want a mix of relaxation and socializing in an amazing beachfront location. Just steps from your room to the turquoise water!
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Mad Monkey Koh Rong (party hostel)
Looking for a fun spot on Koh Rong Island? Mad Monkey on Long Set Beach might be just what you're after. This lively hostel is a hit with travelers who love to socialize and stay active. You can join in on karaoke nights, volleyball games, and other fun events that keep the place buzzing with energy.
The bungalows are right on the beach, so you're never far from those amazing ocean views and the sound of waves. It's pretty sweet to wake up to that every morning. The staff is super friendly, the rooms are clean, and the food gets good reviews too. Whether you're traveling solo or with a buddy, Mad Monkey seems to tick all the boxes for a great island stay.