In recent years, more and more tourists have set their sights on Cambodia’s islands. Almost all of Cambodia’s islands are scattered along the Gulf of Thailand, the country’s only coast.
Whether you are looking for a hammock to relax on a remote beach, snorkel to admire the colorful coral, or join a beach bash, Cambodia’s islands have something to suit your taste. Here are 6 of the best islands in Cambodia to help you find your destination on a smaller scale.
1. Koh Rong Island
Located in the northeastern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong, Cambodia’s second-largest island with a total area of about 78 sq km, is just 45 minutes by boat from Sihanoukville. The island has been isolated for several years, allowing for the best preservation of its pristine natural environment.
Koh Rong is rich in natural attractions, including coral reefs, tropical palm forests, rainforests, waterfalls, sparkling blue waters, and 28 white sand beaches, the highlight of which is a 7-kilometer stretch of beach called Sok San Beach. Koh Rong deserves its reputation as the “party island”, with a wide variety of themed bars and budget accommodations. Visitors can immerse themselves in a carnival of music and dance parties, spend some leisurely afternoons in hammocks, or engage in water sports activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.
2. Koh Rong Samloem
As the sister island of Koh Rong Island, Koh Rong Samloem is covered in virgin forest, tropical vegetation, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. Whether you want to take in the breathtaking views, lie back and relax, explore the exotic wildlife, swim in the refreshing ocean, or catch a glimpse of the historic Khmer culture, the enchanting Koh Rong Samloem is the perfect vacation destination for you.
There are no roads on the island and the only transportation is by boat. Fishermen’s boats ply the beaches every day, offering services such as fishing and diving for travelers. Saracen Bay is the island’s main recreational area, where Lazy Beach was once named the most beautiful beach in the world by National Geographic for its soft, pale golden sand, and crystal clear waters.
3. Song Saa
Known as the Maldives of the East, Song Saa Island is a carefree vacation paradise for couples, consisting of two private islands connected by a footbridge. From Sihanoukville, Song Saa is easily accessible by private speedboats, which are provided free of charge to guests of the island resort. “It is a place that breathes in sync with nature, built with local materials, made by local people, and filled with local art and soul.” Song Saa allows tourists to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world for simple tranquility.
There’s so much to do on Song Saa Island – stroll the pristine private beach, explore the colorful underwater coral world, experience scuba diving, sea kayaking, yoga & meditation, and relax in the spacious wooden villas with cozy spa treatments.
4. Rabbit Island
Rabbit Island, also known as Koh Tonsay, is a beautiful tropical islet of just 2 square kilometers, located about 4 kilometers south of Kep Town. A small boat from the town’s harbor transports you to a different world – coconut-lined beaches covered with fine white sand dotting the edge of the island; modest bungalows semi-surrounded by dense jungle facing the endless sea.
The waters around the beach are relatively clear and warm, offering visitors some snorkeling opportunities to explore the colorful fish and a handful of exquisite coral reefs. At night, the waters are illuminated by blue plankton, creating a charming and spectacular sight.
5. Koh Thmei
Koh Thmei is Cambodia’s best island for those who want to get closer to nature. The island is home to civets, lizards, and over 100 species of birds, as well as a natural habitat for the endangered fishing cat. Unspoiled or extensively developed, Koh Thmei remains quite unspoiled, where you can immerse yourself in pure nature. Visitors can go on jungle hikes or watch birds.
Koh Thmei Resort is the only accommodation on the island, with a private golden beach and beautiful gardens, as well as beachfront wooden bungalows. Don’t miss taking a kayak ride around the island and witnessing dolphins playing in the water.
6. Koh Ta Kiev
Just an hour’s boat ride from Sihanoukville, Koh Ta Kiev is a relaxing island offering leisure activities such as beach walks, jungle adventures, snorkeling and more. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a jungle hike to a fishing village where you can enjoy fresh fish and crabs.
Another trail through the jungle leads you to the golden beaches on the south side of the island, where you can rent kayaks and a variety of diving equipment. At sunset, take a boat ride to Elephant Rock to dive off the cliffs into the water. After the sun goes down, Koh Ta Kiev is almost completely dark. Visitors can see glowing plankton illuminating the water. Renting a hammock and sleeping under the stars is a great experience on Koh Ta Kiev Island.
