The Surf Window

Koh Rong

Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia

Beach breakBeginner

Cambodia's most beautiful island, Koh Rong sits in the Gulf of Thailand with bioluminescent bays, white sand beaches, and small but consistent southwest monsoon swells that create gentle surf in an island paradise setting.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size0.8–1.5m at 6–8s

Wind

NE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

May–Oct

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

White sand

Shape

Small peaks on the western beaches

Length

20–50m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginners
  • •Why: Tiny Gulf waves great for learning. The island itself is the attraction

Hazards

  • •Very small waves, minimal surf most of the year
  • •Jellyfish (box jellyfish risk, research before swimming at night)
  • •The island has limited infrastructure, power cuts common

Local Tips

  • •The bioluminescent plankton in the bay is extraordinary, night swimming creates living light trails
  • •Koh Rong Sanloem (the smaller sister island) is quieter and more beautiful
  • •Fast ferry from Sihanoukville takes 45 minutes

Location

Map showing the location of Koh Rong in Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia

10.7157, 103.2473