Off the southern coast of Cambodia, in the Gulf of Thailand, lie over 60 picturesque islands awaiting exploration… Taking a boat from Sihanoukville, visitors often indulge in a spot of island hopping during their Cambodia holidays. If you are looking for a romantic getaway or you fancy island-hopping some uninhabited locations provide the perfect location for privacy and tranquillity.
When desiring to experience local culture, head to the charming fishing villages on islands where life has remain virtually unchanged for decades.
Koh Rong
Located two and a half hours from Sihanoukville by boat, Koh Rong is not only one of the most beautiful in the archipelago but also remains virtually uninhabited. The locals call the shoreline on the southwest side “Snowdrift Bay” because the powder soft, white sand resembles talcum.
The beach on the island extends for 43 kilometres and beyond the shore, travelling inward, visitors find a lush, thick tropical jungle. Koh Rong is a spot favoured by divers and snorkelling enthusiasts while jungle treks are also popular along with some rustic camping.
Koh Tang
Charter a boat and venture to Koh Tang when in need of reclusive Cambodia holidays. The island’s location also attracts scuba divers wanting to escape the tourist crowds. Divers encounter a living aquarium beneath the water’s surface filled with colourful corals and reefs. Barracuda, octopi and seahorses frequent the area along with varied species of large fish that include jacks, sail fish and snappers.
Divers venturing to Koh Prins can also find two shipwrecks lying in the ocean. Kingfish, moray eels and nudibranches are some of the sights lurking in the water’s depths around Koh Rong Saloem. If planning on spending the night, bring supplies as the island has no amenities.
Koh Tonsay
A 20-minute boat ride from Kep, Koh Tonsay once boasted an upscale resort in the 1920s. These days, the island serves as home to a handful of Khmer families who operate restaurants and beachfront properties. Two exquisite white sandy beaches attract visitors who spend the days swimming and snorkelling in the shallow waters where the landscape slopes gradually out from the shoreline. Generators supply the locals with electricity and the rustic environment provides the perfect location for an undisturbed Cambodia holiday filled with relaxation. Gaze at the seemingly infinite starry night skies while being serenaded by the island cicadas.
Koh Ru
Another great snorkelling destination, Koh Ru offers golden beaches and a lovely, lush forest filled with the sounds of local wildlife. A path bisects the island and travels from one popular beach to the other. The few available bungalows on either side mean there are never more than a dozen guests staying on the island at any one time. Cambodia is a perfect destination for the young people and those who fancy island-hopping.
Author: This article was written by Tom Browne, a travel writer who went to Cambodia back in 2012. Cambodia holidays provide travellers with a unique experience of ancient cultures and a rich history combined with relaxation on sun-drenched beaches.