Koh Rong★★★
Koh Rong — Cambodia's Island Paradise
Koh Rong is Cambodia's largest island (78 km²) and a tropical paradise that is slowly transitioning from a backpacker secret to a popular travel destination — but still far from mass tourism. The island offers 43 km of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, dense jungle, and a relaxed island life.
Beaches
- Long Set Beach (Long Beach): 7 km of white sand on the west coast — one of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. Hammocks, beach bars, sunset directly into the sea. The main beach for those seeking tranquility.
- Koh Touch: The "center" of the island with most accommodations, restaurants, and bars. This is where the nightlife happens (Wednesday: "Police Beach Party"). The beach is okay, but not the most beautiful.
- Sok San Beach: On the west coast, even quieter than Long Beach. Few accommodations, but endless sand. Accessible by boat from Koh Touch (15 min.).
Activities
- Bioluminescent Plankton: THE highlight! During the new moon (no moonlight), the sea glows blue-green with every movement — bioluminescent plankton. Night swimming in the glowing water is magical. Best at Long Set Beach or by night boat tour (8–12 USD).
- Snorkeling: Corals and tropical fish around the island. Day tours by boat: 15–20 USD (4–5 snorkeling stops, lunch included).
- Jungle Trekking: Hike across the island from Koh Touch to Long Set Beach (2.5–3 hours). Through dense jungle, over hills — shoes with grip needed. Possible without a guide, but slippery when it rains.
- Diving: Several dive schools on Koh Touch. Discovery Dive from 60 USD, PADI Open Water Course from 350 USD. Visibility 5–20 m, seahorses, bamboo sharks.
Accommodation & Budget
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Dorm (Hostel) | 5–8 USD/bed |
| Bungalow (simple, fan) | 10–20 USD |
| Bungalow (AC, beachfront) | 25–50 USD |
| Boutique Resort | 60–150 USD |
| Food (simple) | 3–5 USD/dish |
| Beer | 1–2 USD |
💡 Tipp
For bioluminescent plankton: Check the moon calendar! The best visibility is 3–5 days before and after the new moon. Koh Touch has too much light pollution — go to Long Set Beach or book a night boat tour. And: NO phone flash in the water, it destroys the magic.
