Koh Rong Tour: A Snorkeling, Fishing, Sunset, Plankton

Travelers looking for a budget-friendly yet unforgettable day on Cambodia’s Koh Rong island often stumble upon this highly-rated tour, offered at just $20 per person. While we haven’t personally taken it, all indications suggest it’s a balanced blend of vibrant marine life, laid-back beach time, and unique natural phenomena like plankton glowing at night.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expertly guided snorkeling at Koh Toch Island and Koh Koun promises some of the best underwater sights you’ll find in the region. Second, the inclusive BBQ on Long Beach offers a tasty, relaxing break with stunning views. And third, the chance to witness plankton’s glow at dusk adds a magical finish to the day. That said, a possible consideration is the tour’s approximate duration of 6-7 hours, so it might be quite full for those seeking a slow, unstructured day.

This tour is perfect for adventurers, families, or solo travelers wanting a well-rounded day that combines water activities, scenic relaxation, and cultural insights—all at an accessible price point. If you’re after a laid-back yet activity-rich excursion, this could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Excellent value for the price, including snorkeling gear, BBQ, and transportation.
• Vibrant underwater ecosystems with plenty of tropical fish and coral reefs to explore.
• Relaxing beach time on Long Beach, with a delicious BBQ and opportunities to unwind.
• Magical plankton experience, glowing at night, offers a unique natural spectacle.
• Knowledgeable guides who are friendly and provide informative commentary.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention, with a maximum of 15 travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Rong Tour

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off around 12:30 pm, with pickups at Koh Touch pier and Long Set pier, making it easy to access if you’re already staying nearby. The transportation, included in the price, takes you smoothly from the pier to the main activity spots, saving you hassle and extra costs. The group size caps at 15, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere where guides can give more personalized attention.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Koh Touch Village
Your afternoon begins with a brief pickup at Koh Touch pier, a hub for many travelers on Koh Rong. The quick 15-minute transfer to Long Set Pier gets you onto the water-focused part of your day. While this segment involves a free admission ticket, it’s mainly a transit point, so don’t expect much sightseeing here.

Stop 2: Long Set Pier
Around 1:30 pm, the tour officially starts from Long Set Pier with a 30-minute welcome period. Here, you’ll meet your guide and prepare for snorkeling — an activity that’s at the core of this experience. The ease of access and the friendly crew lays the groundwork for a relaxed, fun-filled day.

Stop 3: Koh Koun
This is where you’ll spend approximately two hours, exploring the underwater world at Koh Koun. The reviews emphasize the diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, which make snorkeling here quite impressive. Reviewer feedback mentions encountering colorful tropical fish and marine creatures, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Stop 4: Long Beach
The final major stop is Long Beach, a sprawling 5 km stretch of white sand. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-earned break, savoring a BBQ meal prepared by your hosts, along with fresh fruits and cold drinks. The beach’s ample space and stunning scenery provide a perfect backdrop for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking in the sunset views.

The Sunset and Plankton Experience

As the day turns to evening, you’ll witness an iconic sunset over Long Beach, often described as breathtaking. But the real magic happens at night when the plankton glow, creating an otherworldly light show. This natural phenomenon is a major highlight, turning your evening into a memorable spectacle that many reviews note as “magical” and “not to be missed.”

Inclusions and Value

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a BBQ, fresh fruits, and drinks, all contributing to a hassle-free experience. The price of $20 covers all these essentials, making it excellent value compared to more expensive tours that might charge extra for gear or meals.

What You Need to Know

While the tour is generally accessible for most travelers, remember that it does not include meals other than the BBQ and fruits. Also, personal expenses, travel insurance, and any additional meals are on you. The activity is non-refundable, so planning accordingly is wise.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the friendly crew who went above and beyond to make sure everyone had a good time, highlighting the guides’ attentiveness. Another shared that the guide was very informative and spoke good English, making learning about Cambodia part of the adventure.

One commenter reflected on the broader experience of traveling in Cambodia, noting that the guides and drivers contributed to a positive experience, even amid more somber visits to historical sites like Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields. Their emphasis on the guided support and local knowledge suggests you’ll be in good hands on this tour.

Why This Tour Works

This excursion’s combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sunset viewing makes it a well-rounded choice for a day trip. The affordable price combined with small group sizes ensures a personalized experience that balances adventure with comfort. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and a tasty BBQ adds real value, especially for travelers who want a hassle-free day without paying extra for essentials.

The highlight for many is the chance to see the glowing plankton—a natural phenomenon that turns an ordinary evening into something truly special. Plus, the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, as recounted by reviewers, help make the day even more enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover, a snorkeling enthusiast, or someone seeking a relaxed yet activity-packed day, this tour will suit you perfectly. Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the intimate group size and the chance to unwind on a stunning beach after exploring underwater. It’s also ideal for those on a budget but unwilling to sacrifice quality or memorable experiences.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Rong tour offers fantastic value for an all-in-one day trip. From vibrant marine life to relaxing on Long Beach, and finishing with the enchanting glow of plankton at night, it combines the best of what Koh Rong has to offer in a compact package.

While it’s not a full-day adventure for those wanting a super slow pace, it strikes a good balance between activity and relaxation, making it perfect for travelers eager to see a lot without overspending. With knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, you’ll leave with plenty of memories—plus a few great photos of the glowing plankton.

In all, this experience is best suited for adventurous, curious travelers who want a straightforward, fun, and affordable way to enjoy Koh Rong’s natural beauty. It’s a good choice whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, especially if you value genuine encounters over commercialized tours.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Koh Touch pier and Long Set pier are included, making it easy to access the tour without extra hassle.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you have your own, feel free to bring it along.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, from around 12:30 pm to late afternoon, including snorkeling, beach time, and sunset views.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and attentive guides.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a BBQ and fresh fruits, but other meals are not included. Additional personal expenses for food and drinks are on you.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
While snorkeling is a major part of the tour, the relaxed beach time and sunset viewing still make it enjoyable, even if you prefer to stay on land.

This Koh Rong tour offers a delightful balance of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty—all at a price that makes it accessible for many travelers. Whether you’re after underwater sights, stunning sunsets, or the glowing plankton, this trip promises a memorable day on Cambodia’s beautiful island.