9 Things to Know Before Visiting Cambodia’s Islands
While neighboring Thailand’s islands are all over the internet, Cambodia’s islands are less known about but can certainly rival the best! Do you want seeking pristine beaches? CHECK! lush jungles? CHECK! A choice of laid back chill spots or a place to party? DOUBLE CHECK!
Here’s what you need to know before planning your island stay but be careful, you might not want to leave…
1. Pick the Right Island!
Choosing the right island is the first port of call. The good news is theres plenty to choose from, each with its own distinct vibe:
- Koh Rong is perfect for backpackers and party-goers. Known for its lively nightlife, beach bars, and social scene, it’s a hotspot for travelers looking to let loose. However, it also has quieter beaches if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
- Koh Rong Samloem is more serene and geared towards those seeking peace and tranquility. Its main bay, Saracen Bay, is home to charming resorts and white sandy beaches. Backpackers might prefer M’Pai Bay, a smaller village with budget-friendly accommodations.
- Koh Ta Kiev offers a rustic, off-the-grid experience. With limited electricity and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, it’s a haven for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy nature.
- Koh Thmei is part of Ream National Park and is ideal for nature lovers. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and exploring unspoiled beaches.
- More! There are many more hidden islands and locations, travel to the area, point them out and ask where you can go. Skies the limit!
2. How to Get There
Most islands are accessible via ferries from Sihanoukville, the gateway city on Cambodia’s southwest coast. You can reach Sihanoukville by bus or plane from Phnom Penh. From there, ferry services operate to most of the islands, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on your destination.
Popular ferry companies include:
- Buva Sea
- Island Speed Ferry
- GTVC
It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the high season. Services like BookMeBus and CamboTicket make it easy to secure your tickets.
If you’re planning to explore more than one island, island-hopping is possible with local boats offering short rides between islands.
Get More Travel Info for Cambodia
3. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cambodia’s islands is between November and March, when the weather is dry, sunny, and less humid. During this period, you can expect clear blue skies and calm seas — perfect for lounging on the beach and exploring the islands.
However, visiting during the monsoon season (May to October) has its appeal. The islands are less crowded, and you may find better accommodation deals. Just be aware that ferry rides can be choppy, and some activities like diving may be limited due to poor visibility.
4. Be Prepared for Higher Costs
Island life is more expensive than mainland Cambodia. Everything from food to accommodation comes at a premium due to transportation costs. However, you can still find budget-friendly options on most islands, especially if you stick to local guesthouses and street food stalls.
Budget tips:
- Bring essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, and snacks from the mainland to avoid paying inflated island prices.
- Look for happy hour deals at beach bars to save on drinks.
- Opt for local meals, which are more affordable than Western-style dishes.
5. Infrastructure Has Improved, But It’s Still Basic
In recent years, the islands have seen significant development, especially on Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, with better accommodations, stable electricity, and internet access. However, don’t expect luxury facilities everywhere.
- Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Thmei remain largely undeveloped, offering a more rustic experience with basic amenities and limited electricity.
- Most islands have no vehicles, so be prepared to walk or take boat rides to get around (but thats the exciting part right! Pack some shoes that are good but you don’t mind getting dirty!).
6. Bring Enough Cash
ATMs are rare on the islands, and you can’t rely on card payments or phone QR code payments everywhere (especially as signal is also low or non-existant). Make sure you withdraw enough cash before leaving the mainland.
Tips:
- Some resorts offer cash-back services for a fee if you run out of money.
- Booking accommodation online in advance can help reduce the amount of cash you need to carry.
7. Travel Insurance Is Recommended
Medical facilities on the islands are minimal. In case of an emergency, you’ll need to return to the mainland for treatment. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is a must.
Choosing the best seasons to travel and being well prepared is the best way to avoid needing to use your insurance so keep your head on straight and you’ll be right!
8. Respect the Environment (Please!)
Cambodia’s islands are natural treasures that need to be preserved. Unfortunately, single-use plastic waste is a growing problem.
Here’s how you can be a responsible traveler:
- Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to reduce plastic waste.
- Say no to plastic straws and use your own metal or bamboo straws.
- Dispose of your trash properly and participate in beach clean-up initiatives.
Supporting eco-friendly businesses on the islands also helps reduce the environmental impact of tourism.
9. You… Might Not Want to Leave
With their stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and welcoming locals, Cambodia’s islands have a way of making travelers want to stay longer than planned. Whether you’re partying under the stars on Koh Rong or enjoying a digital detox on Koh Ta Kiev, these islands offer a slice of paradise that’s hard to leave behind.
Plan your itinerary to end your Cambodian adventure on one of these beautiful islands — you’ll be glad you did!
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
