How to Get to Koh Rong: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cambodia’s Paradise Islands

If you’re planning a trip through Southeast Asia, chances are you’ve already come across the stunning photos of Koh Rong Island and its neighbouring paradise, Koh Rong Sanloem. White sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back island vibe make these destinations a must-visit when you travel Cambodia.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover how to get to Koh Rong, including routes from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, ferry tips, how to get between the islands, and everything else you need to plan the perfect trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, are the best products possible whilst travelling.

Why visit Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem? 

Let’s start with the obvious: the beaches!

Koh Rong Island and Koh Rong Sanloem are home to some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia. Think powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, and beach swings straight off Instagram. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book, party with fellow backpackers, or explore hidden coves, these islands offer it all.

During our visit, we were blown away by just how peaceful and scenic everything felt. Compared to other busy beach destinations in Southeast Asia, there’s still a little bit of untouched charm here.

If this sounds like your kind of place, you’ll definitely want to read our full Koh Rong Islands Guide and Cambodia Bucket List for more inspiration.

Where Are the Koh Rong Islands?

The Koh Rong islands are located off the southwest coast of Cambodia, near the city of Sihanoukville. This is your main gateway to the islands, and every journey to Koh Rong starts here.

There are two main islands you’ll want to know:

• Koh Rong – Lively, social, and home to popular hostels and nightlife
• Koh Rong Sanloem – Quieter, more relaxed, perfect for unwinding

How to Get to Koh Rong Cambodia

Getting to Koh Rong is actually pretty simple once you understand the process. No matter where you’re starting your trip – Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or elsewhere, the journey follows two main steps:

1. Travel to Sihanoukville
2. Take a boat (ferry) to the islands

Step 1: Getting to Sihanoukville

How to Get to Koh Rong from Phnom Penh

If you’re starting in Phnom Penh, you’re in luck, as it’s the easiest route.

• Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours
• Transport options: Bus, minivan, or taxi
• Cost: ~$10–$15

Buses run frequently throughout the day, and you can book tickets easily online. We recommend checking out our Phnom Penh Travel Guide and Tips for Traveling Cambodia before you go.

How to Get to Koh Rong from Siem Reap

Coming from Siem Reap is a longer journey but still very doable.

• Travel time: 10–12 hours
• Transport options: Night bus, day bus, or flight + transfer
• Cost: ~$20–$35

Night buses are a popular budget option if you want to save time and accommodation costs. If you’re planning a longer itinerary, don’t miss our One Month in Cambodia guide.

Step 2: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong (Ferry Guide)

Once you arrive in Sihanoukville, it’s time for the fun part: the boat ride.

Booking Your Ferry Ticket

We highly recommend using BookMeBus or 12Go to book your ferry in advance. It’s quick, easy, and allows you to compare:

• Departure times
• Ferry companies
• Prices

Most return tickets cost around $22 per person, which is great value considering it includes both directions.

Ferry Companies

The main operators include:

• Buva Sea
• GTVC Speedboat
• Island Speed Ferry

All depart from Sihanoukville Port, and the process is very straightforward.

At the Port

Once you arrive:

• Head into the main warehouse area
• Find your ferry company desk
• Show your ticket confirmation
• Wait in the seating area

Top tip: It can get quite hot and stuffy, so bring water and be prepared to wait a little.

The Boat Journey

• Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Experience: Smooth (most of the time!)

If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking tablets beforehand. The crew are usually helpful and will let you know when it’s your stop, just make sure you know which beach or resort you’re heading to.

Map of Koh Rong (What to Know Before You Arrive)

Understanding the layout of the island is key.

• Koh Rong: Main areas include Koh Touch (party hub) and Long Set Beach (more relaxed)
• Koh Rong Sanloem: Main area is Saracen Bay (calm and scenic)

A quick look at a map before your trip will help you choose the right place to stay and avoid confusion when arriving.

How to Get to Koh Rong Sanloem

The process is exactly the same as getting to Koh Rong:

• Travel to Sihanoukville
• Take a ferry directly to Sanloem

When booking, simply select your destination island.

Getting Between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem

Many people assume it’s difficult to travel between the islands—but it’s actually very doable.

Here are your main options:

1. Private Boat Taxi

• Cost: $60+
• Best for: Groups

This is the quickest option, but not budget-friendly unless you’re splitting the cost.

2. Ferry via Sihanoukville

• Use your return ticket to go back to the mainland
• Catch another ferry to the second island
• Cost: ~$44 total
• Downside: Takes more time

3. Charter Boat (Best Option)

This was our favourite method.

• Organised by hostels (e.g., Nest Beach Club)
• Cost: $7–$8
• Travel time: Short and direct

You may need to hop into shallow water to board—but it’s all part of the adventure!

Returning from the Islands

Your ferry ticket usually includes an open return, which is super flexible.

To use it:

• Contact your ferry company
• Confirm your return time
• Head to the correct pier

You can return from either Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem, as long as it matches your operator.

Koh Rong Travel Tips

Here are a few key tips to make your trip smoother:

1. Plan Ahead – Knowing your ferry times, accommodation, and next destination will save you stress.

2. Don’t Stay in Sihanoukville – Use it as a transit point only, it’s not the nicest place to spend time.

3. Pack Smart – Check out our Backpacking Must Haves before you go.

4. Choose the Right Island for you if you dont have time to visit both! 

• Koh Rong = social + lively
• Sanloem = quiet + relaxing

5. Budget Wisely – While Cambodia is fairly affordable, island prices are slightly higher. Plan your budget accordingly.

Best Beaches on Koh Rong Islands

Some of the top spots you shouldn’t miss:

• Long Set Beach (Koh Rong)
• Sok San Beach (Koh Rong)
• Saracen Bay (Sanloem)
• Lazy Beach (Sanloem)

These are easily some of the best beaches in Cambodia.

Koh Rong Activities

Beyond relaxing on the beach, there’s plenty to do:

• Snorkelling in clear water
• Bioluminescent plankton swimming
• Jungle trekking
• Kayaking
• Beach hopping

For more ideas, check out our activities section in our full island guide.

Where to Stay

Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to luxury resort stays.

If you’re backpacking, don’t miss our guide to the Best Hostels in Cambodia for top recommendations.

Final Thoughts: Getting to Koh Rong Made Easy

Getting to Koh Rong might seem complicated at first, but once you break it down, it’s actually very straightforward:

• Bus to Sihanoukville
• Ferry to your chosen island
• Enjoy paradise

Whether you’re heading there for a few days or as part of a longer Cambodia travel itinerary, the islands are guaranteed to be a highlight.

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Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, are the best products possible whilst travelling.