Koh Rong didn't register for me until I began planning a longer Cambodia itinerary. I'd encountered various 'Kohs' (the Khmer word for island) but couldn't have placed this one on a map. That obscurity is part of its appeal.
The island feels completely separate from mainland Cambodia's energy. Once I decided it was worth a visit, the pressing question became: where should I stay on Koh Rong?
Your choice of base can make the difference between a stay you never want to end and one you want to escape. That's where this guide helps—sharing what I learned about this small island.
Cuties on Koh Rong.
Where Should You Stay on Koh Rong?
Short on time? Here are three standout options for when your Cambodia backpacking route brings you to the island. I've included choices across different budgets to reflect the range of lodging available.
Tamu Koh Rong, Pagoda Beach
Glamping is a fantastic way to experience a tropical island. You can hear birds from bed, watch sunlight filter through as the island wakes, and feel close to nature without fully roughing it.
Don't let the word 'tent' mislead you. These accommodations are far from basic and lean heavily toward luxury.
Mad Monkey Koh Rong, Long Set Beach
Mad Monkey hostels are known for kicking off parties, and this location fits the mold. It's a top budget-friendly choice for social travelers, whether solo or with friends. The beach bar is the center of activity here, hosting regular events and keeping energy high daily.
Happy Elephant, Koh Touch
Happy Elephant suits travelers who want a straightforward, affordable base in Koh Rong's busiest beach town. It's somewhere between a hostel and a guesthouse, offering spacious ensuite rooms with the essentials for easy island living.
Koh Rong Area Guide – Best Places to Stay
Koh Rong isn't massive, but your base can shape your experience significantly. It's an island of natural beauty and varied options—whether you want a party scene, a local Cambodian feel, or a secluded beach retreat. Perhaps a mix of all three?
Overall, it's one of Cambodia's best places to stay, with some of the clearest water I've seen.
Koh Touch is the busiest part of the island. Most hotels, hostels, and other travelers are found here. There's a big party scene with beach bars and plenty of nightlife. But it's not only drinking and dancing—you'll also find easy access to boat tours, excellent snorkeling, and jungle hikes.
Long Set Beach, a short walk from Koh Touch, has a slightly more relaxed feel but remains close to the action. I'd recommend this place to stay in Koh Rong for those who prioritize beach days over bar nights but don't mind switching it up occasionally.
The kind of vibes you can expect.
Pagoda Beach combines a laid-back atmosphere with a touch of luxury. It's home to high-end resorts with spas, yoga decks, and infinity pools—all about relaxation.
Naroth Beach is somewhat remote and remarkably beautiful. This area suits travelers seeking absolute tranquility with authentic Cambodian hospitality. Want a digital detox? This is the spot.
Then there's Preaek Svay, a local fishing village that moves at a slow pace. It's far from the busy south of the island and ideal for experiencing traditional island life. You won't find much nightlife or shopping here, but you will find friendly locals, authentic Khmer food, and unique overwater accommodations.
Koh Rong's Five Best Areas to Stay
Koh Rong is fairly large but feels extremely spread out. When considering different options for places to stay in Koh Rong (including safety), these five stood out:
1. Koh Touch – Best Place to Stay in Koh Rong for a First-Time Visit
Koh Touch is the island's party hub and, in my opinion, the best place to stay for a first visit. If you're traveling solo or here to meet other travelers, sip cocktails with your toes in the sand, and dance until early hours under the stars, this is your spot.
Most ferries also arrive here, making it easy to access other boat tours and snorkeling adventures.
Sambath Sakseth Bungalow | Jungle Cabins in Koh Touch
Sambath Sakseth Bungalows are so unique and far from daily life that you'll feel on vacation from the moment you arrive.
The accommodation is hidden in jungle foliage, a short walk from the harbor and beach. Even being five minutes from the action, it feels like a hidden little paradise.
Ocean Lounge Bungalow Hostel Bar and Restaurant | Best Hostel in Koh Touch
Ocean Lounge Hostel is one of the most unique on this list. Where most properties have a rustic feel, this one is modern. It's a new build blending comfortable modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking onto the jungle and a classic thatched bar.
Happy Elephant / Happy Elephant Bungalows | Affordable Bungalows in Koh Touch
Happy Elephant is a crowd-favorite place to stay in Koh Rong. It's a hostel and guesthouse with seven spacious bungalows and twenty rooms, each with a private bathroom. The rooms are simple yet comfortable—in my opinion, that's all you need on a small island like this.
The staff are friendly and would happily help you organize a motorbike rental or boat trip booking.
Things to See and Do in Koh Touch
- Learn to scuba dive and explore the underwater world
- Rent a bicycle and explore at your own pace—you can cycle between Koh Touch and Long Beach on the west of the island
- Rent a paddleboard and see the island from a different angle
- Zoom around the bay on a jet ski
- Hike through the jungle to Police Beach
- Rent a private boat charter to explore hidden beaches and snorkeling spots
2. Long Set Beach – Best Place to Stay in Koh Rong on a Budget
Long Set Beach could be an extension of Koh Touch, just a short walk or boat ride away. It feels much more relaxed and down-to-earth. Beaches are less crowded, water is cleaner, and people are more relaxed. It's the best blend of Southeast Asia.
You'll find a mix of eco-lodges, boutique resorts, and mid-range hotels along the beachfront, attracting couples, families, and solo travelers. If you like a tranquil beach trip without feeling isolated, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Rong.
Long Set Resort | Luxury Resort in Long Set Beach
Imagine waking to gentle waves against the sand and palm trees rustling in the wind. The only decision is which palm tree to lie under for the day. Not bad.
Life is this easy at Long Set Resort, a four-star property with luxurious rooms right on the beachfront in Long Set Beach.
BeachWalk Koh Rong | Top Hotel in Long Set Beach
BeachWalk Koh Rong lets guests enjoy laid-back island vibes without overspending. It's hard to believe this spot is so affordable. Rooms have a patio with garden or sea view.
The best and easiest way to spend a day here is to order a meal at the pool and hop between the pool and the ocean. It's my favorite Koh Rong hotel, and I'm eager to return.
Garden Hostel Koh Rong | Great Hostel in Long Set Beach
If you're unsure where to stay in Koh Rong, The Garden Hostel is a hybrid of hostel and resort. It's cheap and offers dorm-style rooms like a hostel, but it's located on a sandy patch of jungle right on the beach, like a resort.
The only time you'll feel like you're in a hostel is in the dorms—and even then, they're more comfortable and clean than most.
Mad Monkey Koh Rong | Best Hostel in Long Set Beach
Mad Monkey Hostels have a reputation as party hostels, but they're also among the top-rated. They're like the fun friend who always wants to cheer you up with a night out, and the Koh Rong location on Long Set Beach is no exception.
The hostel has a beach bar with regular events and nonstop vibes. Even if you stay elsewhere, I'd still recommend visiting the Mad Monkey Bar.
Things to See and Do in Long Set Beach
- Join a fishing and snorkeling boat trip and BBQ the fish you catch for lunch
- Experience glowing plankton on Long Set Beach or Police Beach
- Go to a beach party and dance under the stars
- Book a beachfront yoga or meditation class with one of the local accommodations
- Experience the thrill of windsurfing over the reef
- Rent a kayak and paddle along the coastline
3. Pagoda Beach – Best Area in Koh Rong for a Luxurious and Remote Hideaway
Pagoda Beach shows Koh Rong's more upscale side. This stretch of golden sand is home to the island's high-end resorts and retreats, mostly catering to travelers seeking a remote beach experience.
Paradise for sure.
It feels quiet and serene, with fewer tourists and a clear focus on relaxation. Expect luxury tented camps, infinity pools, and spa treatments with sea views.
Tamu Koh Rong | Luxury Tented Beach Camp in Pagoda Beach
Who knew glamping could be so luxurious? Tamu Koh Rong is a beach resort with a twist in this luxurious Koh Rong neighborhood. Instead of self-contained suites, you'll stay in a glamping tent—but these are no ordinary tents. They're super luxurious, with high-end interiors, private indoor/outdoor bathrooms, and superb proximity to the beach.
Then there's the food, the paddleboards, the private beach, and the Instagram-worthy pool.
The Beach Resort | Affordable Hotel in Pagoda Beach
The Beach Resort is pretty much as the name suggests. The catch is that it's incredibly affordable compared with other luxurious resorts. Rooms are simple—but when you have one of the most beautiful beaches at your doorstep, what more do you need?
Anaya Koh Rong | Beach Spa Resort in Pagoda Beach
Anaya Koh Rong is the most luxurious hotel on the block. Still, you wouldn't believe how affordable it is per night. Rooms are modern and stylish, with minimalist interiors inspired by the island's tropical landscape. All suites have a small terrace and outdoor bathrooms for the ultimate island experience.
Best of all, you can enjoy a spa treatment with a sea view without leaving the property.
The Secret Garden Koh Rong | Best Beach Resort with Bungalows in Pagoda Beach
The Secret Garden is so beautifully decorated you'll be snapping pictures all day, every day. They've made this place a minimalist heaven, with rough concrete, rattan interiors, and shabby-chic beach umbrellas. Against a backdrop of turquoise ocean and white sand, it's a show-stopper.
I recommend staying at this place in Koh Rong for honeymooners. Treat yourself to an indulgent outdoor bath and massage treatment.
Things to See and Do in Pagoda Beach
- Watch the sunset from the beach
- Take a private long boat tour around the island
- Indulge in a spa treatment at one of the beachfront resorts
- Spend a day soaking up sunshine from a private resort beach
- Rent a kayak and explore the different coves and mangroves
- Visit the pagoda on Pagoda Beach
- Explore hiking trails through the jungle around Pagoda Beach
4. Naroth Beach – Best Area in Koh Rong for Couples
Further up the east coast is a small area known as Naroth Beach. It's much more remote and suited for those after absolute peace and tranquility. There are only a handful of small resorts here—meaning few tourists and a much more authentically Cambodian experience. Perfect for traveling couples.
The crystal clear waters of Koh Rong are unmatched.
You won't find nightlife, crowds, or noise. Only breathtaking views, swaying palm trees, and friendly locals. For this reason, I recommend it as the best place to stay in Koh Rong for couples and honeymooners.
Naroth Beach Bungalow | Top Hotel in Naroth Beach
There aren't many accommodations here, but Naroth Beach Bungalow is undoubtedly the best. It's located on the beach, a short walk from Palm Beach, and has two types of bungalows—sea or garden view.
Whichever you choose, you'll never be more than a few meters from the water. If you want to explore, you can even rent a scooter from reception.
Salacia's Suite | Best Hotel in Naroth Beach
Salacia's Suite is one of the most unique on this list because the hotel sits literally above the ocean surface. It's a floating resort built on stilts in a shallow part of the bay around Naroth Beach.
There are also beach facilities, including hammocks, a beach bar and restaurant, and a shady spot for yoga. It's totally private, beautiful, and so unique you won't want to leave this little paradise.
Salacia Palm Beach Hostel | Best Hostel in Naroth Beach
Salacia Palm Beach Hostel is an extension of the hotel above. It's on land, right on the beachfront, with rustic cabins built on the sand. It's basic yet has everything you might need for a low-key (and incredibly affordable) beach trip.
The beach bar is the best place to hang out, with island-inspired decor, a pool table, and a dreamy cocktail menu. However, it's not the most luxurious place to stay in Koh Rong, and getting around the island can be a hassle. So, I only recommend staying here if you're okay with roughing it a bit and staying put on the beach.
Things to See and Do in Naroth Beach
- Go spearfishing with local fishermen
- Spend a day swinging in a hammock
- Meditate among nature on the beach
- Dine on local Khmer food at one of the beachfront restaurants (like At The Beach Kitchen) or a local eatery like Fried Rice House
- Swim in what we consider the clearest water on the island
- Go birdwatching in the nearby forest
5. Preaek Svay – Best Area in Koh Rong for a Local Experience
If you're after a more cultural and local experience than a beach trip, Preaek Svay is a fascinating place to stay. It's a local fishing village on the island's northern side, giving visitors a glimpse into Khmer coastal life.
There are only a couple of places to stay here, mostly wooden houses and simple stilt river homes run by local families. The area is surrounded by mangroves and rivers, making it super unique. There's no restaurant or nightlife scene, but there is a big emphasis on seafood.
Lily's Riverhouse | Traditional Local Homestay in Preaek Svay
If you're wondering where to stay in Koh Rong's local fishing village, I dream about spending a few nights at Lily's Riverhouse. Owned by a local Khmer family, this little homestay is built with local materials and sits on stilts above the river in Preaek Svay.
The staff are super friendly, and the rooms are simple and clean. There isn't much to do around here other than relax and unwind. While you can rent bikes or take a boat to Koh Touch, I recommend staying here if you really want peace and quiet.
Firefly Guesthouse | Quirky Floating Guesthouse and Hostel in Preaek Svay
Another unique floating guesthouse, Firefly Guesthouse is located at the mouth of the river over a shallow part of the sea. It's simple and rustic, but you can feel that everything was made and designed with love and care.
When you aren't absorbing the silence and gazing at the sea views, you could rent a kayak and explore the bay.
Friend of Nature Homestay & Bungalow | Traditional Floating Homestay in Preaek Svay
Friend of Nature Homestay & Bungalow is set half on the beach and half on the river. Its location inside the mangrove lets you connect with nature, just as the name suggests.
One of the best things to do here is relax and socialize with the hosts. You can also borrow a kayak to explore the mangrove by boat or lounge over the water in one of the hammocks. Rise with the sun here—sunrise is magic hour in these mangroves.
Things to See and Do in Preaek Svay
- Go on a guided fishing trip with local villagers
- Stay in a traditional Khmer river stilt house
- Ask a local to guide you through the jungle to a nearby waterfall
- Grab a bite at a river restaurant called Natural Kitchen
- Visit the pagoda
- Take a boat trip to Koh Sang Sea, a small island off the coast
FAQs About Where to Stay in Koh Rong
Hopefully, I've covered the info you need for a great stay in Koh Rong, but if you have more questions, I'm here.
What are the main places to stay in Koh Rong, and how do they differ?
The most popular places to stay in Koh Rong are Koh Touch (for lively nightlife and budget-friendly hostels) and Long Set Beach (for a quieter vibe yet still close to the action). For a luxury experience, Pagoda Beach is home to resorts like Anaya Koh Rong. Naroth Beach is best for secluded, eco-friendly stays, like the Naroth Beach Bungalow. For a cultural experience, Preaek Svay is a local fishing village with barely any tourists around.
How do I get to the more remote places in Koh Rong?
Once on the island, boat taxis and jungle roads connect the various areas. The easiest way to get to the northern part of the island (Pagoda Beach to Preaek Svay) is by boat. Once in an area, the easiest way to get around is on foot. You can also rent a motorbike in areas like Koh Touch and Long Set Beach. Accessibility can be tough depending on the weather and the time of day.
What is the best part of Koh Rong for nightlife and activity?
The best place to stay for a party scene is Koh Touch. This is where most of the nightlife, bars, and hostels are located. It is also the first port of call for ferries on the island. To get the party started, Ocean Lounge Bungalow Hostel Bar and Restaurant and Mad Monkey have on-site bars.
Where should I go in Koh Rong for the most authentic Cambodian experience?
For the most authentic Khmer experience, head straight to Preaek Svay in the north of the island. This small fishing village has only a handful of locally run accommodations like Firefly Guesthouse and is the easiest place to stay in Koh Rong to immerse yourself in local culture.
Is there accommodation available for budget travelers in Koh Rong?
Yes. There are plenty of places for budget-conscious travelers to stay. Koh Touch and Long Set Beach are the busiest areas, but they also have the most hostels and affordable accommodations. Preaek Svay is also a hotspot for simple and affordable accommodation for those seeking a quieter and more cultural experience. Lily's Riverhouse is one of the most affordable homestays on the list.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Koh Rong
Choosing where to stay in Koh Rong comes down to what kind of trip you want. If you want a touch of nightlife, socializing with other backpackers, and snorkeling trips, Koh Touch or Long Set Beach might be for you.
If luxury is a priority, check out resorts like Tamu Koh Rong on Pagoda Beach. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Naroth Beach and Preaek Svay have some incredibly affordable accommodations like the locally run Firefly Guesthouse.
No matter where you stay, enjoy the unreal water color and white sand beaches. Few Southeast Asian islands can compare.
See ya there!
