A hidden island paradise in Cambodia – white shell beaches, ocean views, and jungle adventures

▲ Koh Rong Island in Cambodia boasts pristine white sandy beaches.

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Cambodia

Most people’s impression of Cambodian cities is limited to the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor ruins in Siem Reap or the bustling capital Phnom Penh. However, Cambodia also has a beautiful hidden gem located along its southwest coastline — Sihanoukville, the country’s second-largest city. Though it’s a lively urban center, its tourism areas remain relatively undeveloped, preserving an authentic Khmer charm. The stunning Koh Rong Island feels like a truly secluded paradise.

▲ It takes about one to two days to explore the whole island.

▲ With little commercialization, Koh Rong is a hidden retreat for Western backpackers.

Beach lovers simply can’t miss the white-sand paradise of Koh Rong. As Cambodia’s second-largest island, it covers an area of approximately 78 square kilometers and takes about one to two days to circle the entire island. The whole island is covered in dense jungles and surrounded by pristine white sands. With almost no commercial presence, the untouched environment feels like drifting onto a deserted island from a movie. Though it resembles a deserted isle, it is home to over 200 local families. Their traditional stilt houses offer a glimpse into the lives and culture of the indigenous residents.

▲ Traditional stilt houses are where locals reside.

▲ There are around a dozen restaurants and bars on the island.

▲ Chickens freely roam the beaches.

Lie on the white sand for a sunbath, dive into the clear waters to watch fish and shrimp swimming, or head to a treehouse bar for a couple of drinks. On this island, you can do whatever you want — as long as you arrange to stay here for a day or two. If you’re just taking a day trip by boat to the nearby islands, you’ll only get to stay for about an hour before having to leave, which makes saying goodbye to this beautiful place quite hard.

▲ The boat ride from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong takes about one to one and a half hours.

▲ Just lounge in the sun and do absolutely nothing.

* The boat ticket package from Sihanoukville Port to Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, and Koh Tonsay costs around $25. For details, please contact Kuji Travel.