Day Trips & Excursions: Koh Rong

Nearby Destinations

Koh Rong Sanloem is situated just south of Koh Rong. It is smaller, quieter, and well-known for tranquil beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Popular areas include M'Pai Bay, Lazy Beach, and Saracen Bay.

To Koh Rong Sanloem, regular speed ferries operate between Koh Rong (Koh Touch or Saracen Bay piers) and Koh Rong Sanloem (M'Pai Bay or Saracen Bay piers). These ferries run frequently. Many island-hopping tours also include stops at Koh Rong Sanloem, often combining it with snorkeling.

Tour vs. Independent

Organized tours cover multiple spots around Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem in a single day.
Tours typically include snorkeling, fishing, lunch, and sometimes sunset viewing or bioluminescent plankton.
Booking a tour through your guesthouse or a local operator in Koh Touch is simple.
Independent travel to Koh Rong Sanloem is possible via scheduled ferry or private longtail boat, giving more flexibility.

Natural Escapes

Koh Rong itself functions as a natural escape, and day trips can deepen appreciation of its unique landscapes.

Island Nature

No formally designated national parks or reserves exist directly on Koh Rong. The island's largely undeveloped jungle serves as a natural preserve.

Boat Trip Scenery

Boat trips around the island showcase its untouched coastline and dense interior.
Excursions uncover hidden coves and pristine coastline not easily reached by land.

Secluded Spots

For ultimate tranquility, boat trips to secluded beaches on Koh Rong, like Lonely Beach or Coconut Beach, offer untouched natural beauty.

Bioluminescent Plankton

Bioluminescent plankton viewing is a popular evening activity, notably on moonless nights.
Many day tours that return after sunset include this experience.
Witness the magical glow in the water.

Planning Your Day

Tour Durations

A full-day organized tour is approximately 8-10 hours.
Comprehensive island-hopping tours often include multiple stops and activities.
These tours usually depart mid-morning.
They return after sunset.

Independent Visit

Allow a minimum of 4-6 hours for an independent visit.
This duration includes ferry travel to Koh Rong Sanloem.
Explore one or two beaches at a relaxed pace.
Independent travel gives more flexibility.

Multi-Day Extension Overview

Sihanoukville, often a transit point, can be explored for a day.
Kampot is known for its relaxed riverside atmosphere and pepper plantations.
Kep is famous for fresh seafood and peaceful beaches.
Phnom Penh presents historical sites like the Royal Palace and National Museum.

Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, requires a domestic flight.
Regular speed ferries connect Koh Rong to Sihanoukville.
From Sihanoukville, buses or private taxis reach Kampot, Kep, or Phnom Penh.
A comprehensive loop makes experiencing diverse facets of Cambodia possible.

Consider Your Next Steps

After experiencing Koh Rong, consider extending your trip to explore more of mainland Cambodia for distinct experiences and logical connections. Book day trips on GetYourGuide.

Cultural Excursions

Cultural excursions from Koh Rong mostly involve visiting local fishing communities on the island itself rather than historical sites or major cultural attractions.

Historical Context

No significant historical sites are accessible for day trips directly from Koh Rong. Major historical sites are on the mainland.

Rural Villages

A visit to a local fishing village like Daem Thkov (Prey Svay Village) offers a glimpse into local island life.

Pilgrimage Sites

No pilgrimage sites are accessible for day trips from Koh Rong.

Local Interactions

Observe traditional fishing practices and interact with local residents in villages for a genuine cultural experience.

Community Insight

Witness daily fishing activities.
Engage respectfully with villagers.
Gain insight into local island life away from tourist hubs.

Cultural Contrast

Mainland Cambodia offers rich cultural and historical experiences that stand in strong contrast to the island's natural focus.

Mainland Exploration

Consider Phnom Penh for its Royal Palace and poignant historical sites.
Siem Reap holds the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex.
These mainland destinations typically involve domestic flights or long bus journeys.

Transportation & Logistics

Ferries connect Koh Rong to Sihanoukville.

Buses and taxis link Sihanoukville to Kampot, Kep, and Phnom Penh.

Domestic flights from Sihanoukville or Phnom Penh reach Siem Reap.

Long-distance buses also connect Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

Plan travel between island and mainland for cultural insights.

Book transport in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Explore Beyond the Beach

While Koh Rong is for relaxation, cultural depth awaits on the mainland.
Combine island tranquility with Cambodia's rich history.
Consider a comprehensive loop for a full Cambodian journey.
Connect with local life by visiting island fishing communities.
Plan flights or long bus rides for mainland cultural destinations.

Multi-Day Extensions

After experiencing Koh Rong, you might consider extending your trip to explore more of mainland Cambodia.

Sihanoukville & Southern Coast

Sihanoukville, often a transit point for Koh Rong, offers city beaches, a bustling port, and mainland dining. Many minimize time here, heading directly to islands.

Nearby Towns

Kampot, known for its relaxed riverside atmosphere and French colonial architecture.
Visit Bokor National Park and world-famous Kampot pepper plantations.
Kep is famous for its fresh seafood, notably the Crab Market, and peaceful beaches.

Phnom Penh & Siem Reap

Phnom Penh presents a strong contrast to the island pace with historical sites and poignant Khmer Rouge regime sites.

Major Cities

Phnom Penh has the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum.
Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Siem Reap hosts the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex.

Logical Progression

For a more relaxed coastal and rural experience after Koh Rong, Kampot and Kep present a natural progression.

Travel Flow

For cultural and historical insights before departing Cambodia, Phnom Penh is a logical next step.
Regular speed ferries connect Koh Rong to Sihanoukville.
From Sihanoukville, take a bus or private taxi to reach Kampot, Kep, or Phnom Penh.

Transportation Connections

Bus services from Sihanoukville are frequent and economical. Siem Reap often calls for a domestic flight.

Efficient Travel

A domestic flight from Sihanoukville or Phnom Penh is the most efficient way to reach Siem Reap.
Long-distance buses also connect Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.
A comprehensive loop can involve flying into Phnom Penh, then bus to Sihanoukville for the ferry.

Suggested Regional Routes

A well-planned route makes experiencing diverse facets of the country possible. Consider various combinations based on your preferences.

Northern Circuit

Fly into Siem Reap, explore Angkor Wat, then fly or bus to Phnom Penh for a city stay.

Coastal Journey

From Phnom Penh, travel to Kampot and Kep, then to Sihanoukville for the island ferry to Koh Rong.

Return Options

From Kampot, return to Phnom Penh for departure, or continue to Siem Reap if further exploration is planned.

Next Steps

Extend your trip to explore the charming riverside town of Kampot or the historical richness of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Day Trips & Excursions