Koh Toteung: Cambodia’s Hidden Island Paradise

Welcome to Koh Toteung, a rare gem nestled within the Koh Sdach archipelago, off the coast of Kiri Sakor in Koh Kong Province. Far from the crowds of Angkor or the busy beaches of Sihanoukville, this peaceful island is preparing to open its arms to travelers—both Cambodians and foreigners—seeking authenticity.

Local authorities and tour operators can’t praise it enough: Koh Toteung is the perfect getaway for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort. Surrounded by hypnotically blue seas, it reveals coral reefs teeming with marine life, pristine beaches, and an atmosphere of remoteness that invites total escape.

Dive into an untouched marine paradise

The moment you set foot on the island, the scenery captivates you. Just a short swim from shore, the seabed unfolds its treasures: multicolored corals, schools of tropical fish, and lazy starfish. Snorkeling here is pure joy—easy, accessible, and unforgettable.

For the adventurous, kayaking winds between strange rock formations sculpted by the tides, while local boat trips lead to secret coves. Dreaming of traditional fishing? Join the locals—their nets bring in lobsters and fresh fish, shared over an impromptu seaside campfire.

What makes Koh Toteung truly unique is its absolute calm. No giant resorts or crowded beach parties—just the ocean’s murmur and the tropical cicadas’ song.

Eco-bungalows for a total island immersion

Accommodation here means "simple chic": wooden bungalows cooled by the sea breeze, powered by solar energy, and supplied with rainwater through clever collection systems. Managed by local families, these cozy hideaways plunge visitors into island life.

You’ll wake to sunlight filtering through palm leaves, a steaming cup of Khmer coffee in hand, ready for a day with no fixed plans. This is meaningful tourism: every stay directly supports the community and protects this fragile Eden, perfectly aligned with Cambodia’s national strategy for sustainable coastal development.

Getting there, hassle-free

Your journey begins with a trip to Koh Kong—take a comfortable bus from Phnom Penh (6–8 hours via the well-paved National Road 48) or a shared taxi for more flexibility. From there, head to Ta Yong Port in the Kiri Sakor commune. The crossing to Koh Toteung takes 20–30 minutes by local boat, already setting the mood with salty spray, an endless horizon, and your first dreamlike view of the island.

Practical info to make the most of it

• Best time to visit: November to April (dry season) offers blue skies, calm waters (27–30°C), and ideal snorkeling conditions. Avoid the monsoon (July–October) when heavy rains turn everything into a tropical cauldron.

• Budget and stay: Plan for 2–3 days to fully disconnect. Accommodation from USD 20–40 per night; local meals USD 5–10. No need for luxury to feel like royalty here.

Tips for a responsible and unforgettable trip

• Zero waste: Skip disposable plastics; bring a refillable bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable bags—the corals will thank you.

• Live local: Book boats and bungalows directly with fishermen. It’s more fun and supports the local economy.

• Adventurer mode: Bring natural insect repellent, a hat, water shoes for the rocks, and a healthy dose of curiosity. Check boat schedules locally—they follow the rhythm of the tides.

Koh Toteung isn’t a destination that shouts its name; it whispers an invitation to those sensitive to simple beauty. In Cambodia—the land of timeless temples—this island reminds us that the true treasure often hides below the surface: in the clear waters, genuine smiles, and the moments stolen from the rush of the world. Ready to cast off?

Practical addresses for Koh Toteung: lodging, ports, and transport

Here’s a list of reliable contacts to help plan your Koh Toteung escape, based on vetted tourism sources. The island remains very pristine, with few listings online—local reservations or arrangements through Koh Kong are recommended. Always confirm availability in advance.

Ports and boat transfers

• Ta Yong Port (Ta Yong Commune, Kiri Sakor, Koh Kong): Main departure point for Koh Toteung (20–30 minutes crossing). No online address—ask locally in Koh Kong or through local operators. Commune authorities can confirm boat times.

• Koh Sdach Boat (Koh Sdach Archipelago): Regional ferry operator. Tel: 063-863-6665 or 096-370-3899; Line: @ferryadvice. Useful for connections within the archipelago.

• Boonsiri High Speed Ferries: Routes between Koh Sdach and Koh Kong (approx. 4h, daily departure at 7:00 a.m.). Book via directferries.com.

Eco-friendly staysKoh Toteung is still undeveloped—no large resorts online. Hospitality is community-based, with modest eco-bungalows managed by local families, solar-powered and rainwater-supplied. These simple, seaside lodgings (USD 20–40 per night) offer full immersion in nature—fresh-caught meals, sea views, and a private-island atmosphere.

Currently, no specific names are public, as development follows a sustainable and low-profile approach. To book:

• Contact via Ta Yong Port (Kiri Sakor) or Koh Sdach Boat operators (Tel: 063-863-6665).

• Ask locally in Koh Kong—fishermen and guides can recommend the best family-run spots.