Koh Rong (Reef On The Beach) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The journey to Koh Rong begins in Sihanoukville, Cambodia's main coastal city, where regular ferry services depart throughout the day. From Phnom Penh, you can reach Sihanoukville via a 4-5 hour bus ride, while those coming from Siem Reap can take an 8-hour bus journey or opt for a domestic flight to Sihanoukville. The ferry terminal in Sihanoukville is easily accessible by tuk-tuk from anywhere in the city, with rides typically costing $3-5. If arriving by private vehicle, several paid parking facilities are available near the ferry pier, though it's advisable to book these in advance during peak season.

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong stands as Cambodia's premier island getaway with its pristine white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tropical haven offers a perfect balance of serene seclusion and vibrant beach culture, making it an essential stop on any Southeast Asian ferry itinerary. As you step off the ferry onto Koh Rong's shores, you'll be greeted by swaying palms, powdery sand, and the laid-back rhythm that defines island life here.

Koh Rong enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons that shape the island experience. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when clear skies and calm seas make for perfect beach weather and reliable ferry crossings. February and March offer the best combination of sunny days and moderate temperatures around 28-30°C. The rainy season (May to October) brings occasional heavy downpours and rougher seas, though ferry services continue to operate with potential adjustments during stormy weather. For those seeking tranquility, early November and late April represent excellent shoulder season options with fewer visitors but still favorable conditions.

Koh Rong serves as an excellent base for exploring Cambodia's developing island network. Neighboring Koh Rong Samloem is just a 20-minute ferry ride away, offering even more secluded beaches and the charming Saracen Bay. For day-trippers, the small fishing island of Koh Ta Kiev can be reached in about 45 minutes, providing a glimpse into traditional Cambodian coastal life. More adventurous travelers can arrange boat tours to Koh Thmei within Ream National Park, approximately 1.5 hours away, where rich biodiversity and untouched beaches await. The waters between these islands create one of Southeast Asia's most picturesque island-hopping routes, with opportunities to spot marine life along the way.

Koh Rong captivates visitors with natural wonders like the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton that illuminate the waters after dark, best experienced on a night swimming tour from Long Beach. Adventure seekers can trek through the island's interior jungle to reach hidden beaches like Lonely Beach or embark on a snorkeling or diving excursion to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The island's culinary scene centers around fresh seafood barbecues and authentic Khmer dishes, with beachfront restaurants in Koh Touch village serving catch-of-the-day specialties. For a cultural experience, visit the small fishing communities on the island's eastern side, where locals continue traditional ways of life largely unchanged by tourism.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong had no permanent electricity until 2018, with most establishments previously relying entirely on generators that ran only during evening hours. The island served as the filming location for the French version of the popular TV show 'Survivor' (Koh-Lanta) for multiple seasons, introducing its beauty to European audiences. Koh Rong's name derives from the Khmer word for 'cave mountain,' referencing the numerous hidden caverns along its coastline that once served as shelter for fishermen during storms. Marine conservation efforts around the island have led to the creation of Cambodia's first marine protected area, helping preserve the rich underwater ecosystems that surround Koh Rong.