Koh Rong, often called the “Island Paradise,” is a stunning destination off the coast of Cambodia. Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Koh Rong is known for being an idyllic getaway. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, this island has slowly transformed from a hidden gem to a popular tourist spot. With an intriguing history that includes ancient fishing communities and modern development, Koh Rong offers an exciting mix that appeals to adventure seekers and those searching for relaxation. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Koh Rong, you’ve come to the right place.
Historically, Koh Rong was inhabited by local fishing families who lived simple lives close to nature. However, its pristine beaches and untamed beauty soon caught the attention of tourists in the early 2000s. Today, you can find luxury resorts like Sok San Beach Resort and budget-friendly accommodations such as guesthouses and hostels. The tourist industry is growing rapidly on the island and its neighbor Koh Rong Sanloem, providing diverse options for lodging without disturbing the island’s natural charm. Main attractions include Long Beach, a seven-kilometer stretch perfect for sunbathing, and Koh Touch Village, where most bars and restaurants are located.
Apart from Long Beach and Koh Touch Village, other must-see spots include High Point Adventure Park for zip-lining fun and Lonely Beach if you seek solitude. The island’s interior has hiking trails leading to hidden waterfalls such as Sok San Waterfall. Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy visits to local fishing villages like Prek Svay to savor fresh catches of the day.
Koh Rong has a laid-back atmosphere that makes it perfect for unwinding. The nights can get lively with beach parties in Koh Touch Village, while more secluded areas provide peace and quiet. Whether you’re diving into marine adventures or sipping cocktails on the shore, this island balances leisure with excitement without feeling overrun by tourism.
Keep reading this guide to uncover more about what’s special about this island paradise and to find out about the best areas to stay in Koh Rong for your perfect getaway.
Accommodation Options in Koh Rong, Cambodia
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Koh Rong?
The best area to stay in Koh Rong is Sok San Beach due to its pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. Located on the island’s western side, it offers tranquility away from busier areas. Sok San Beach is also home to luxury hotels that provide comfort and premium services. Visitors can explore nearby coral reefs, engage in water sports, or relax on the quiet beach.
Find available accommodation on Sok San Beach.
Best Hotels on Sok San Beach, Koh Rong
- Best 5-star hotel: The Royal Sands Koh Rong
- Best 4-star hotel: Golden Beach Resort
- Best 3-star hotel: Long Beach Resort
- Best budget hotel: Soksan Natura Beach
Where to Stay in Koh Rong for Sightseeing
- Sok San Beach is an idyllic spot on Koh Rong’s northwest coastline, characterized by crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. Renowned for its luxury hotels and thriving coral reefs, it offers laid-back relaxation, snorkeling, and vibrant marine life.
- Kaoh Toch Beach is located in the southwestern part of Koh Rong Island. It is the most developed area on the island and serves as a central hub. The village nearby offers access to many small shops, bars, and local food vendors. The beach is known for its bustling nightlife and is a good place for those looking to experience social gathering spots.
- Long Set Beach, situated on the eastern coast of Koh Rong Island, provides a more tranquil environment than Kaoh Toch Beach. This area features powdery white sand and clear waters. It offers a peaceful retreat and is ideal for people seeking relaxation away from large crowds.
- Saracen Bay, on Koh Rong Sanloem, covers the island’s southeastern coast. It’s named after a British warship anchored there in the 19th century. Saracen Bay has become well-known for its long white sand beaches and calm, shallow waters. It’s less developed than Koh Rong but an excellent base to explore jungles and hidden lagoons.
The Best Areas to Stay in Koh Rong
1. Sok San Beach
An upscale and quiet area to relax in Koh Rong
Sok San Beach lies on Koh Rong’s western side and features an elongated stretch of soft sand. It is relatively isolated and was chosen as a filming location for the television series “Survivor”.
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Why is this the best area to stay on Koh Rong Island:
- Crystal clear turquoise waters
- Powdery white sand beaches
- Pristine and uncrowded environment
- Stunning sunsets over the ocean
- Luxurious beachfront resorts
- Vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling
Sok San Beach, located on the island’s western coastline, stretches over several miles and presents a pristine environment characterized by white sandy shores and clear turquoise waters.
Koh Rong itself has an interesting backstory. Originally inhabited by a few small fishing communities, Sok San Beach specifically gained notoriety as it served as a filming location for the famous reality television show “Survivor.”
One of the area’s defining features is its tranquil atmosphere. Unlike other more developed sections of Koh Rong, Sok San Beach maintains an untouched quality, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation. This beach is less commercialized than others on the island, providing a peaceful retreat away from busier spots like Koh Touch.
Attractions on Sok San Beach include its crystal-clear waters with perfect conditions for snorkeling and swimming, revealing vibrant underwater life. Additionally, its long stretches of sand promise lovely walks and sunbathing.
Nightlife and dining options here include several beachfront bars and restaurants where freshly caught seafood is offered against the backdrop of stunning sunsets.
Best Hotels on Sok San Beach, Koh Rong
The Royal Sands Koh Rong
Located on the beach of Koh Rong in the Sihanoukville Province, The Royal Sands Koh Rong offers luxurious villas with a private beach area and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Golden Beach Resort
Golden Beach Resort provides wellness packages and beauty services, as well as air-conditioned accommodations in Koh Rong Island, a 2-minute walk from Sok San Beach.
Long Beach Resort Koh Rong
With sea views, Long Beach Resort Koh Rong is located on Koh Rong Island. It has a restaurant, room service, bar, garden, and terrace. Complimentary WiFi is featured.
Soksan Natura Beach
Located on Koh Rong Island, a few steps from Sok San Beach, Soksan Natura Beach provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant. Specific units at the property include a balcony with a sea view.
2. Kaoh Toch Beach
The best area to stay on Koh Rong Island for backpackers
Known for its bustling atmosphere, Kaoh Toch Beach is located on the southeastern side of Koh Rong.
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Why is this the best area to stay on Koh Rong Island:
- Crystal-clear waters
- Soft white sand
- Vibrant nightlife
- Proximity to bars
- Diverse marine life
- Budget-friendly accommodations
- Thrilling adventure activities
Kaoh Toch Beach is renowned for its lively nightlife and status as a favorite destination for budget travelers and backpackers. Over the past decade, this area has transformed from a sleepy fishing village to one of the island’s most vibrant spots, attracting visitors with its affordability and energetic atmosphere.
During the day, Kaoh Toch Beach offers an idyllic setting with its white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot to relax, swim, or engage in water sports like kayaking and snorkeling. As evening approaches, the area comes alive with various bars and beachside establishments offering cheap drinks and entertainment that continues into the early hours. Fire shows, lively music, and beach parties are common sights as the sun sets.
Originally inhabited by local fishers, the beach began to develop into a tourist hotspot in the early 2000s. Despite its modern growth, remnants of its traditional past can be seen in its fishing boats docked by the shore and fresh seafood markets.
Regarding transportation, Kaoh Toch Beach is easily accessible via ferry from Sihanoukville on mainland Cambodia. Regular ferries operate between Sihanoukville’s Serendipity Pier and Koh Rong Island’s main pier at Kaoh Toch Beach, taking about 45 minutes. Once on the island, footpaths connect different parts of Kaoh Toch Beach and motorbike rentals are available.
Accommodation options cater largely to budget travelers. Expect a variety of hostels and guesthouses offering basic amenities at affordable prices. Many establishments provide dormitory-style rooms that encourage social interactions among fellow travelers. A few boutique hotels and private bungalows also line the beach for those seeking a bit more comfort without breaking the bank.
Best Hotels on Kaoh Toch Beach
White Beach Bungalows
Rooms at White Beach Bungalows feature a sea-view balcony and a private bathroom. Located on Koh Rong Island, this rustic property has its garden, a restaurant, and a bar and is 66 feet from a quiet white, sandy beach.
Oun Guesthouse
Located on Koh Rong Island, with Koh Toch Beach reachable within a few steps, Oun Guesthouse has concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a bar.
YAIYA Hostel & Smoothie Bar
Located on Koh Rong Island, YAIYA Hostel & Smoothie Bar offers beachfront accommodations a few steps from Koh Toch Beach. It has facilities such as a shared lounge, a terrace, and a bar. Guests can have a drink at the snack bar.
3. Saracen Bay
The best area to stay in Koh Rong Sanloem
Saracen Bay is situated on Koh Rong Samloem and serves as a quieter alternative to Kaoh Toch Beach.
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Why is this the best area to stay on Koh Rong Sanloem Island:
- Crystal clear waters
- Long sandy beach
- Stunning sunsets
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Eco-friendly accommodations
- Delicious seafood restaurants
- Beautiful coral reefs
Saracen Bay, situated on Koh Rong Samloem, is renowned for its picturesque white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located on the western side of the island, the bay stretches about three kilometers and offers stunning views of the surrounding turquoise sea and lush tropical jungle.
Originally inhabited by local fishing communities, Saracen Bay has gradually transformed into an enticing destination for travelers seeking serenity. Despite its relative recent development as a tourist spot, the area retains much of its natural charm. The bay’s name is derived from a British naval ship named HMS Saracen that anchored in the bay during the 19th century.
Among Saracen Bay’s notable features is its tranquil and relaxing environment. Undisturbed by heavy commercial activities, it provides an ideal setting for those looking to unwind. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it suitable for swimming and kayaking. Snorkeling expeditions reveal vibrant marine life beneath the surface, including diverse coral reefs and colorful fish species.
Saracen Bay offers a handful of attractions. Notable is Sunset Beach, accessible via jungle trails that cross over to the western side of Koh Rong Samloem. This secluded beach provides breathtaking sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, the bay serves as a gateway to Lazy Beach, an alternative spot known for its pristine beauty and quiet ambiance.
Unlike bustling party destinations, Saracen Bay has a laid-back vibe for nightlife, with a few beachfront bars offering drinks in the evening.
Transportation to Saracen Bay is facilitated by ferry services from Sihanoukville on the mainland. Multiple ferry operators conduct trips that last about 40 minutes to one hour. Upon arrival at Koh Rong Samloem’s main pier in Saracen Bay, long-tail boat services are available for reaching more secluded parts of the bay.
Accommodation options in Saracen Bay range from basic bungalows to mid-range resorts.
Best Hotels on Saracen Bay
Sara Resort
Facing the beachfront, Sara Resort offers 4-star accommodations in Koh Rong Sanloem and features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and terrace. A few steps from Saracen Bay Beach and 0.4 miles from Lazy Beach, the property provides a bar and a private beach area.
Paradise Villas Koh Rong Sanloem
Nestled within private gardens, Paradise Villas Cambodia offers beachfront accommodations in Koh Rong Sanloem. Guests can enjoy a meal at the in-house restaurant or have a drink at the bar.
Bamboo Jam
Bamboo Jam offers accommodations in Koh Rong Sanloem. This property has a private beach area and a garden. Room service and free WiFi are also available.
Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem
Located in Koh Rong Sanloem, Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem offers beachfront accommodations a few steps from Saracen Bay Beach and provides a garden, a shared lounge, and a bar. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
4. Long Set Beach
A quiet and eco-friendly beach area in Koh Rong
Located northeast of Kaoh Toch Beach, Long Set Beach, or 4K Beach, is named for its approximately four-kilometer stretch of coastline.
Located on the eastern side of Koh Rong, Long Set Beach stretches for nearly 4 kilometers. What sets it apart is its relatively untouched and tranquil environment compared to other more commercialized parts of Koh Rong. The beach is lined with palm trees, offering natural shade and a picturesque landscape. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Historically, Long Set Beach has developed alongside the gradual increase in eco-tourism on Koh Rong. It retains a sustainable approach to tourism, reflecting a commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
Besides relaxing on the sandy beaches, guided tours are available that can take you through the island’s interior jungle trails. These tours offer insights into the local flora and fauna and sometimes include visits to traditional fishing villages where you can learn about the island’s culture and way of life.
Accommodation options here vary from budget-friendly beachfront bungalows to mid-range resorts that focus on comfort and eco-friendliness. All provide direct access to the beach and are designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings rather than disrupt them.
Best Hotels on Long Set Beach
Long Set Resort
Long Set Resort offers accommodations on Koh Rong Island, an hour away from Sihanoukville by boat. It features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a sundeck. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
Pura Vita Resort
Located on 4 K Beach, along the shores of Koh Rong Island, Pura Vita Resort offers electricity-powered accommodations with calming views of the sea. The in-house restaurant serves meals.
Nest Beach Club
Nest Beach Club has a garden, a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar in Koh Rong Island. Featuring a private beach area, the hostel is close to several noted attractions, around a few steps from Long Set Beach.
Mad Monkey Koh Rong
Mad Monkey Koh Rong, located on Koh Rong Island, offers adults-only accommodations, a restaurant, and a bar. The property also offers evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk.
Finding Accommodation in Koh Rong: A Personal Take
During my visit to Koh Rong, I found that selecting good accommodation largely depends on what you are looking for in your stay. I stayed at the four-star Golden Beach Resort, which offered a comfortable and refreshing experience with its well-maintained amenities. The resort provided consistent electricity, clean rooms, and friendly staff. This is something to keep in mind because many budget hotels on the island have limited electricity, which can be a significant drawback if you plan to stay for an extended period.
For those seeking vibrant social scenes and nightlife, Kaoh Toch Beach is an excellent option. This area has more budget-friendly accommodations and limited amenities like erratic electricity. Alternatively, Sok San Beach caters to those preferring peace and quieter surroundings while offering some luxury choices. Both locations offer plenty of restaurants and activities, such as snorkeling and fishing, without being overcrowded. Choosing between Sok San Beach or Kaoh Toch Beach comes down to your budget and the type of experience you are aiming for during your stay in Koh Rong.
