Koh Rong (Khmer: កោះរ៉ុង, also romanized as Kaôh Rōng or Kos Rong), is the second largest island of Cambodia. The word Rong might refer to an old term for cave or tunnel (Khmer: រូង — rong ), although some islanders say Rong refers to a historical person’s name. It can also refer to the old Khmer word for shelter, adding up to Shelter Island.
Located in Commune (Sangkat) No. 5, or Sangkat Koh Rong of the Mittakpheap district in Sihanoukville Province about 25 km (16 mi) off the coast in the Gulf of Thailand, the island has an area of approximately 78 km2 (30 sq mi) and 43 km (27 mi) of its entire coastline of 61 km (38 mi) are beaches.Four village communities exist on the island: Koh Tuich, Doeum D’keuw, Prek Svay and Sok San. In recent years the island has become home to an increasing but still moderate number of foreign-run guesthouses and bungalow resorts. As the island’s South-Eastern tip around Koh Tuich Village is the point of arrival it has developed into the island’s largest settlement center. In absence of even the most basic infrastructure, transport by boat is required to all settlements and holiday resorts, which are scattered over the many beaches.
Koh Rong island is a relatively new commune, only established in 2000.[5] In order to boost development, Koh Rong has had a land concession issued by the Cambodian government. A Cambodian consortium, the Royal Group has been granted a 99-year lease. In 2008 it revealed plans to build “Asia’s first environmentally planned resort island.”
Get the Ultimate Passport to Exploring Siem Reap
Essential Siem Reap – City & Temples 2026
Designed especially for short-term visitors, packed with local info and deeper insight, this guide puts you on the fast track to ticking off the city’s highlights & attractions, and local foods, with comprehensive info on the must-see temples of ancient Angkor.
Essential Siem Reap – Explorer Edition 2026
Written for history explorers, culture seekers, and long-stay adventurers alike. It includes everything in Essential Siem Reap, plus expanded details on history, ancient art, architecture, all the remote temple highlights found in the outer districts, and more.
