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What Is The Difference Between Koh Rong And Koh Rong Samloem ?

What is the difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem ?

Tucked away off Cambodia’s southern coast, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem have quietly become two of Southeast Asia’s most talked-about islands. But here’s the thing : while they may look close on the map, they offer completely different vibes. The difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem often surprises travelers who expect one tropical experience but find two distinct worlds instead ! Looking to travel to Cambodia and not sure which island suits your style – the vibrant energy of Koh Rong, or the peaceful charm of Koh Rong Samloem ? This guide will break it all down. Backed by Autour Asia’s insights, you’ll discover exactly what makes each island unique and which one should be your next escape. Let’s dive in.

I. General information

1. What is Koh Rong ?

Relaxing coastal charm of Koh Rong Cambodia

Among the tropical treasures you discover when you travel to Cambodia, Koh Rong island Cambodia always stands out. Just 25 kilometers off the coast of Sihanoukville, this island has turned from a quiet fishing spot into a vibrant getaway. Long stretches of white sand, palm-fringed shores, and warm turquoise water create that postcard-perfect setting every traveler dreams about. Yet it’s not just about beauty - there’s nightlife, diving, and countless beach activities... For those who crave both relaxation and energy, Koh Rong brings them together. No wonder it’s often called Southeast Asia’s next big paradise !

2. What is Koh Rong Samloem ?

Peaceful beach view of Koh Rong Samloem

Close to its famous neighbor lies Koh Rong Samloem island Cambodia - smaller, quieter, and so magical. If Koh Rong is about excitement, then Samloem is about peace : no big roads, no noisy bars, just serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors often describe it as a hidden gem, a place where hammocks sway under the trees and the sunsets feel endless. Can you imagine a better escape from a busy life ? For travelers looking beyond the usual stops, this island answers the question about the difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem with its calm, untouched charm.

II. Main differences between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem

1. Island vibes and atmosphere

Looking for wild nights and beach beats ? Koh Rong delivers. On this vibrant island, the music flows long after sunset, especially in areas like Koh Toch and Long Set Beach. It's not just parties, though — the vibe is unapologetically alive. Backpackers gather, bars pulse with energy, and festivals like Nestival turn the sand into a dancefloor. Still, there are quiet corners too if you know where to look. The difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem starts right here : one buzzes, the other breathes. When people travel to Cambodia for excitement, this is where they land.

Lively Nestival vibes on the beach

In contrast, Koh Rong Samloem moves to a different rhythm entirely. No loud music. No neon lights. Just waves, stars, and stories shared by firelight. Sunset Beach and M’Pai Bay invite you to slow down - really slow down. It’s a place where time stretches, where silence feels full, not empty. And that’s the beauty. While both islands offer natural charm, only Koh Rong Samloem island Cambodia gives you that deep, uninterrupted calm. If your dream escape involves stillness, this might just be your perfect pause.

2. Where to stay on the islands

When it comes to variety, Koh Rong stands out. From budget dorms starting around $20 to beachfront resorts, there’s something for every traveler’s wallet. The island’s growing road network and regular boat transfers make even remote corners surprisingly accessible. Backpacker hostels like Nest Beach Club or Tree House Bungalows offer affordable, social stays, while resorts such as The Royal Sands Koh Rong, Long Set Resort, or The Secret Garden Koh Rong elevate comfort with private bungalows and seaside lounges. Whether you're here for the party or the peace, Koh Rong island Cambodia has a bed ready for you - and often, it’s just steps from the sand.

Peaceful beachfront view at Sol Beach Resort

That said, if you prefer somewhere a little quieter, Koh Rong Samloem delivers a more intimate stay. You’ll find jungle-lined bungalows, eco-chic beach huts, and cozy stays like Sara Resort, Sol Beach Resort, or Lazy Beach Bungalows in laid-back corners of the island. There’s less choice, but more charm. And that contrast says a lot about the difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem - one offers convenience and variety, the other simplicity and escape. Could this be the perfect island for you ? For those who travel to Cambodia seeking serenity, Samloem might just feel like home.

Learn more :
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3. What to do and see

Adventure is never far away on Koh Rong. From ziplining through jungle canopies to kayaking in glowing plankton-filled waters, the island offers more than just pretty beaches. You can snorkel near cliffs, rent a jet ski, explore hidden coves, or trek deep into lush forest trails. Want something quirky ? Spend the day at Long Set Beach for paddle boarding and golden sunsets, or wander through Koh Touch Village, where beach bars, cafés, and dive shops bring the island to life. Whether it's full moon parties at Police Beach or calm paddling along Long Set – Koh Rong island Cambodia packs in surprises for every kind of traveler.

Exploring Koh Rong’s calm blue sea by kayak

That said, things move at a gentler pace on Koh Rong Samloem. Jungle treks lead to secret beaches, diving spots brim with marine life, and the sunsets at Lazy Beach ? Unreal. The island sits within Cambodia’s first marine park, making it perfect for eco-lovers. And when the night falls... bioluminescent plankton lights up the water in ways you’ll never forget. The difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem becomes clear here – one thrills, the other soothes. No matter how you travel to Cambodia, there’s an island that fits your rhythm.

Read more :
What to do in Koh Rong?
What to see in Koh Rong?

4. Facilities and comfort level

When people travel to Cambodia, they soon realize that comfort on the islands depends on where you stay – and Koh Rong offers a bit more convenience. Most areas here now have 24-hour electricity, and while Wi-Fi can still be patchy, you’ll find stronger connections around Koh Toch and Long Set Beach. ATMs don’t exist, so cash is king. Some higher-end resorts do accept cards, which can be a lifesaver. Need air conditioning ? You’re more likely to find it on Koh Rong island Cambodia, where tourism is slightly more developed and amenities are easier to access.

Seaside dining at Lazy Beach Bar Samloem

Meanwhile, life on Koh Rong Samloem is simpler - and that’s part of its charm. Electricity often depends on solar power, and Wi-Fi can be unpredictable, encouraging visitors to truly unplug. Restaurants are fewer but wonderfully cozy, often serving fresh seafood by the sea. Don’t expect ATMs or card payments, so plan ahead ! And that’s the real difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem – one brings modern comforts, the other keeps that untouched island soul.

See details : Where to eat in Koh Rong?

5. Getting round the islands

Exploring Koh Rong feels surprisingly easy for such a remote paradise. The island now has a network of smooth concrete roads winding through lush jungle and coastal villages – a big change for anyone who travels to Cambodia expecting rough trails. Scooters are everywhere, and renting one costs around $10–15 a day. Prefer not to drive ? Tuk-tuks are happy to take you from Koh Toch to Long Set Beach or Sok San Village. Travelers can even hop on boat taxis or rent private boats to reach hidden beaches and snorkeling spots. Movement here feels free and full of possibility !

Scooter adventure day on Koh Rong island

On the other hand, getting around Koh Rong Samloem feels entirely different. There are no paved roads, only narrow jungle paths and sandy tracks. Most people move between beaches by walking or catching small boats – it’s slower, yes, but that’s part of its charm. Bicycle or scooter rentals exist but are rare, making travel here more about the journey than the destination. Ferries run regularly between both islands, linking adventure with serenity. And that’s the real difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem – one connects, the other escapes.

III. Practical tips for your trip

1. Best time to visit

When planning to travel to Cambodia, timing truly shapes the experience – especially on Koh Rong. This tropical island enjoys two distinct seasons : the dry months from November to April bring sunshine, calm seas, and perfect beach weather ! From December to February, the breeze is so gentle and the temperature stays comfortable, ideal for swimming or exploring the island by boat. As March and April arrive, the heat rises, but so do the colors of the sunsets… pure magic. Avoid the rainy season if you can - roads get really muddy and the sea turns rough.

The difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem becomes more apparent across the water. Koh Rong Samloem island Cambodia follows a similar rhythm but feels even calmer. From November to May, the island glows under clear skies and soft winds, making snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking through its lush jungle unforgettable ! During the wet season, life slows down here - waves grow stronger, and paths disappear under rain. Still, its quiet beauty remains untouched. Isn’t that what some travelers secretly hope to find ?

Find out more : Best time to visit Koh Rong

2. What to pack

What should travelers pack before they travel to Cambodia and head to the islands ? Start with cash, seriously. ATMs are nonexistent on Koh Rong Samloem and barely reliable on Koh Rong, so withdraw what you need in advance. As for essentials : light clothes, flip-flops, sunscreen, mosquito spray, and a water bottle are non-negotiable. Add swimwear, a dry bag, and a power bank – you’ll thank yourself later ! The tropical heat doesn’t play around. And remember, the difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem isn’t just the vibe. It’s also how well you need to prepare.

3. Useful advices

  • Check ferry schedules often : Ferry schedules between Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, and Koh Rong Samloem can change quickly depending on the weather. Leave room in your plans and avoid booking flights or long bus rides right after your ferry. The sea decides your timing here !

  • Disconnect to reconnect : Internet access on Koh Rong island Cambodia and especially on Koh Rong Samloem island Cambodia is limited – and that’s part of the charm. Why not trade Wi-Fi for waves ? Bring a book, enjoy the sunset, or simply let yourself slow down.

  • Book early in high season : From December to February, both islands fill up fast. Popular spots like Koh Toch and Saracen Bay can sell out weeks ahead. Planning early guarantees your ideal stay and avoids last-minute stress.

  • Infrastructure is basic : Expect solar-powered showers, occasional blackouts, and rustic plumbing. It's all part of the charm when you travel to Cambodia.

  • Respect the environment : These islands remain breathtakingly natural. Keep them that way - skip single-use plastics, join local clean-ups, and support eco-friendly resorts. Small actions matter !

IV. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem - Which one should you choose ?

So, which island should you choose ? It all depends on the kind of escape you dream of. Koh Rong island Cambodia is perfect for travelers who love movement and energy : beach bars, adventure sports, and nights that never seem to end. Meanwhile, Koh Rong Samloem island Cambodia offers calm waters, golden sunsets, and a gentle rhythm of life that soothes the soul. Each has its own charm, and that’s the true difference between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem - one thrills, the other heals ! If you’re unsure where to start, Autour Asia can help plan your perfect island trip, ensuring every detail of your trip to Cambodia is effortless, relaxing, and unforgettable.

See details :
- Planning your trip to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem? Let Autour Asia, your trusted Cambodia travel agency , guide you through these two stunning islands with insider tips and practical advice for the perfect getaway.
- 5 days in Sihanoukville
- Cambodia itinerary 15 days
- Vietnam and Cambodia Vacation Tour Package 12 days

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Chantal Mukendi
5.0 Excellent
How to get around Koh Rong?

Getting around Koh Rong is easy and fun. Most places are close enough to walk, especially around Koh Toch and Long Set Beach. You can also rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore farther, but some roads are sandy and rough. To reach other beaches or hidden coves, take a boat taxi, which costs about $5–20 depending on distance. For more freedom, you can hire a private boat for a day trip. To visit Koh Rong Samloem, ferries run daily and take about 30–45 minutes.

Aminata Sow
5.0 Excellent
How do I spend 15 days in Cambodia?

15 days in Cambodia gives you a rich blend of history, culture and nature. Start in Phnom Penh with city sights and memorials, then head to Kampong Cham and Kampong Thom to explore countryside temples. Spend time in Siem Reap visiting the vast Angkor Wat complex, Banteay Srei and floating villages. Next, transition southward to Kep, visit Rabbit Island, then relax in Ream National Park and Sihanoukville on the coast. On the final day return to Phnom Penh for departure.

Viviane Ekambi
5.0 Excellent
Are the islands safe for solo travelers?

Yes, both Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are generally safe for solo travelers. Locals are friendly, and the atmosphere on both islands is relaxed and welcoming. You can walk around freely, even at night in most areas. Still, take basic precautions - keep valuables secure, avoid swimming alone late at night, and use a flashlight when walking on dark paths. Many solo travelers visit these islands every year to meet new people, enjoy nature, and find peace away from the crowds.

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