Daily costs per person in US dollars. Koh Rong is one of Southeast Asia's cheapest island destinations — budget backpackers can live on $20-30 per day, while mid-range comfort runs $50-80.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: USD / KHR (Riel) (USD widely accepted, small change in riel)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5–15 | $20–50 | $80+ | Beach bungalows → guesthouses → boutique resorts |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–20 | $25+ | Khmer food → mixed restaurants → resort dining |
| Transport | $2–5 | $5–15 | $20+ | Walking → boat taxi → private charter |
| Activities | $5–10 | $15–40 | $65+ | Shore snorkel → group dives → private dive |
| Ferry | $12 | $15 | $22 | Slow boat → speed ferry → VIP speed ferry |
| Daily Total | $20–50 | $60–130 | $200+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Stay at beach bungalows
Simple wooden bungalows on Long Set Beach start at $8-15 per night — basic but right on the sand. Koh Toch has slightly more upmarket options but you lose the beach-living experience.
Eat Khmer food, not Western
A plate of amok or fried rice costs $3-5 at local restaurants. Western food (burgers, pizza) is imported and costs twice as much. Eat local for better food at lower prices.
Bring cash from the mainland
Koh Rong has one ATM with unreliable power and high fees. Withdraw what you need in Sihanoukville before boarding the ferry to avoid getting stuck without cash.
Snorkel from shore, not boats
The reef at the southern end of Long Set Beach is accessible by swimming — no need for expensive boat trips. Buy a $10 snorkel set in Sihanoukville and use it daily.
Walk instead of boat taxi
The jungle trail between Koh Toch and Long Set Beach takes 45 minutes and is free. Boat taxis charge $5-10 per trip — walking saves $10-20 per day and is more adventurous.
Book ferry tickets in advance
Walk-up ferry prices can be inflated, especially during peak season. Book online or at the Sihanoukville pier the day before for the best rates.
