Koh Rong vs Koh Rong Sanloem: which island suits you
Koh Rong is bigger, busier and more social; Koh Rong Sanloem is smaller and quieter. Here's how they compare for beaches, nightlife, families and getting around.
In this guide
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are Cambodia's most popular islands, lying side by side off the coast of Sihanoukville. They share white sand and clear water, but they offer quite different experiences.
At a glance
| Koh Rong | Koh Rong Sanloem | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger, with a road across the island | Smaller, no road network |
| Atmosphere | Social, with a lively village | Quieter and more relaxed |
| Nightlife | Bars and parties near Koh Touch | Limited, mostly resort bars |
| Best for | Backpackers, groups, mixed trips | Couples, families, rest |
| Main beaches | Koh Touch, Long Set, Sok San, Police Beach | Saracen Bay, Lazy Beach, Sunset Beach, M'Pai Bay |
Koh Rong
Koh Rong is the bigger island, with forested hills and a long coastline. Koh Touch village, where most ferries arrive, is busy with guesthouses, restaurants, dive shops and bars. Walk a short way and you reach quieter beaches such as Long Set. On the west coast, Sok San Beach is a long stretch of sand with a fishing village and resorts, known for sunsets.
A road links the east and west sides of the island, so you can move around by motorbike taxi or tuk-tuk.
Choose Koh Rong if you want variety: social evenings, diving, quieter beaches when you need them and more choice of places to stay and eat.
Koh Rong Sanloem
Koh Rong Sanloem is quieter. Its best-known beach, Saracen Bay, is a long crescent of white sand lined with bungalows and resorts. Jungle paths lead to beaches on the west coast, such as Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach, and to M'Pai Bay, a fishing village in the north with a small, laid-back backpacker scene.
Choose Koh Rong Sanloem if you want calm water, quiet nights and a classic beach-hut holiday.
Getting there
Ferries run from Sihanoukville to both islands, often stopping at several piers. Travel time depends on the boat and the route. In rough weather, sailings may be delayed or cancelled.
Can you visit both?
Yes. Some ferries run between the islands, and boat trips connect them. Splitting your time, for example three nights on each, is a good way to experience both.
Practical differences
- Koh Rong has more ATMs, shops and services, though they can still be unreliable.
- Koh Rong Sanloem is more limited, so bring cash and essentials.
- Both islands have basic medical facilities only.