How to Get to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville: Travel Guide & Tips

How to Get to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville: Travel Guide & Tips

Introduction

Koh Rong Island is a tropical paradise off the coast of Cambodia, famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical scenery, and laid-back island atmosphere. Koh Rong is one of Cambodia’s most popular island destinations and a perfect getaway for travellers looking to relax by the beach or explore nature and adventure.

If you’re wondering how to get to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville, the most convenient option is to take a speed ferry. Sihanoukville is the main gateway to Koh Rong, with regular ferry services connecting the mainland to the island. Depending on the ferry route and destination, the journey can take around 40-60 minutes.

In this complete Sihanoukville to Koh Rong travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before your trip, including how to get to the ferry terminal, ferry travel time, ticket prices, departure information, what to prepare, and useful travel tips to help make your journey easier.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday, an island-hopping adventure, or a weekend getaway from Phnom Penh, keep reading to discover the best way to travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong.

Koh Rong Island

Koh Rong is Cambodia’s second-largest island and one of the country’s most popular tropical destinations. The island is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, and relaxed island atmosphere.

Stretching from southeast to northwest, Koh Rong offers a beautiful combination of natural landscapes, tropical beaches, and outdoor adventures. Whether you want to relax on the beach, swim in crystal-clear waters, explore the jungle, or discover hidden coves, Koh Rong has something for every type of traveller.

The island is also a convenient starting point for exploring nearby destinations, including Koh Rong Samloem, which is known for its quieter atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and peaceful turquoise bays.

Geography of Koh Rong

• Location: Approximately 25 km (16 miles) off the coast of Sihanoukville
• Area: Approximately 78 km² (30 sq mi)
• Province: Sihanoukville Province
• Highest point: Approximately 316 m (1,037 ft)

Koh Rong covers approximately 78 km², with much of the island characterised by rolling hills and dense tropical forest. Its highest point reaches around 316 meters above sea level, while the interior is home to a variety of natural landscapes, including waterfalls, coves, capes, and sandstone rock formations.

The island's surrounding waters are also rich in marine life. Small islets, coral reefs, and diverse underwater environments make Koh Rong an attractive destination for snorkelling, diving, swimming, and other water activities.

Beaches and Coastline

One of Koh Rong's biggest attractions is its extensive coastline, featuring numerous beaches ranging from long stretches of white sand to smaller, secluded bays. The beaches vary in size, colour, and atmosphere, offering visitors plenty of options, whether they prefer a lively beach area or a more peaceful escape.

The eastern coast of Koh Rong generally offers calmer waters and a series of beautiful crescent-shaped beaches, inlets, and bays. The coastline is surrounded by green hills and tropical vegetation, creating some of the island's most scenic landscapes.

Meanwhile, the southern coastline faces the open sea and can experience stronger waves and more severe weather. Its rugged coastline, dramatic scenery, and sandstone formations make it particularly appealing to travellers looking for a more natural and adventurous side of Koh Rong. From relaxing on the sand to exploring the island's forests and surrounding waters, Koh Rong provides an ideal tropical escape for travellers visiting Cambodia's southern coast.

3 Ways to Travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong

Planning a trip from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong?

🏝️Getting to Cambodia’s beautiful island paradise is easy, with several ferry options available depending on where you want to stay.

In this guide, we’ll explore 3 ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong: the standard ferry to Koh Rong, a ferry to Long Set Beach, and a ferry to Sok San Beach.

The journey typically takes around 45–50 minutes, making the ferry the fastest and most convenient way to reach the island.

1. Ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong

The most popular way to travel to Koh Rong is by taking a direct ferry from Sihanoukville.

This option is ideal for travellers heading to the main areas of Koh Rong, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, restaurants, accommodations, and island activities.

⏱️ Travel time: Approximately 45–50 minutes

💰 Ticket price: Starting from $17

🚤 Best for: Most travellers visiting Koh Rong

2. Ferry from Sihanoukville to Long Set Beach

If you're staying near Long Set Beach, you can choose a ferry service that travels directly to this beautiful part of Koh Rong. Long Set Beach is known for its soft white sand, clear water, and relaxing atmosphere. Taking a ferry directly to the area can also make your journey more convenient by reducing the need for additional transportation on the island.

⏱️ Travel time: Approximately 45–50 minutes

🚤 Best for: Travellers staying at Long Set Beach

3. Ferry from Sihanoukville to Sok San Beach

Another option is to take a ferry directly to Sok San Beach. This area is perfect for travellers looking for a quieter and more relaxing experience on Koh Rong. By choosing the right ferry route for your destination, you can save time and enjoy a smoother journey from Sihanoukville.

⏱️ Travel time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

🚤 Best for: Travellers staying near Sok San Beach

Which Is the Best Way to Travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong?

The best way to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is to take a bus or minivan from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, then continue your journey by ferry to Koh Rong.

This is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong, combining a comfortable road journey with a scenic ferry ride to the island. The total travel time depends on your transportation and ferry schedules, as well as the connection time in Sihanoukville.

For a convenient and hassle-free journey, travellers can book their trip from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong with Ekareach Express and enjoy an easy way to reach one of Cambodia’s most beautiful island destinations. 🚌🏝️

Why Visit Koh Rong?

For many travellers, Koh Rong is the perfect tropical escape, offering a relaxing island atmosphere, beautiful white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you want to unwind by the sea or explore the island, Koh Rong has something for every type of traveller.

The island is especially popular for snorkelling and diving, where visitors can discover colourful marine life and enjoy the clear waters surrounding the coastline. You can also relax in peaceful bays, watch stunning sunsets, and experience the laid-back island lifestyle that makes Koh Rong one of Cambodia’s most popular beach destinations.

Some of the best beaches in Koh Rong include Long Set Beach (4K Beach), Lonely Beach, and Sok San Beach. Located in different parts of the island, each beach offers a unique atmosphere and experience, from lively beach stays to quiet, secluded escapes.

Whether you're planning a short getaway or a longer island adventure, Koh Rong is a destination worth adding to your Cambodia travel itinerary.

Conclusion

Getting to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville is easy and convenient, with ferry services providing a quick connection to the island. With a journey of around 45–50 minutes, travellers can reach Koh Rong and enjoy its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed island atmosphere.

Whether you're visiting Long Set Beach, Sok San Beach, or other parts of Koh Rong, choosing the right ferry route can make your trip more comfortable and hassle-free.

Planning your island getaway? Book your trip with Ekareach Express and start your journey from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong with ease.