The South Coast of Cambodia is a fantastic place for snorkeling. The clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundant marine life make it a paradise for underwater explorers. Whether you prefer a lively group experience or a more private, tailored trip, the options here deliver. Our favorite is the Koh Rong Tour: A Snorkeling, Fishing, Sunset, Plankton because it combines vibrant reef exploration with relaxing beach time and a magical plankton sighting. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of adventure without breaking the bank.
The South Coast offers a variety of snorkeling tours—from budget-friendly group trips to private, personalized excursions. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each, helping you decide which aligns best with your interests and style of travel.
1. Koh Rong Tour: A Snorkeling, Fishing, Sunset, Plankton
This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 based on 3 reviews) offers an all-in-one experience starting from Koh Touch and Long Set Beach. For around $20 per person, you get a 6 to 7-hour adventure that visits Koh Toch Island and Koh Koun for some of the best snorkel sites in the area. The tour includes stops for tropical marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and intriguing sea creatures. After a morning of underwater exploration, you’ll relax on Long Beach, which stretches for about 5 km and is perfect for unwinding.
What sets this tour apart is the diverse activities packed into a single trip. The highlight is the chance to witness the glow of plankton at dusk, a rare spectacle that makes this tour a favorite for nature lovers. The itinerary includes a delicious BBQ on Long Beach, with fresh fruits and cold drinks to cap off the day. The small group size and flexible schedule make it suitable for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting an affordable, well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive day with snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sunset magic, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.
2. Koh Rong Snorkeling Tour (Private)
At number two, this private tour (rated 5.0/5 from 1 review) is ideal for travelers seeking a more exclusive, customizable experience. For about $85 per person, it lasts roughly 6 hours and focuses on the best snorkeling spots, especially around Koh Toch and Koh Koun. The tour emphasizes personalized attention, with flexible timings and tailored stops.
A key advantage of this private experience is the ability to spend more time at your chosen sites or enjoy a more relaxed pace. You’ll explore crystal-clear waters filled with tropical fish and both soft and hard corals. The highlight is the visit to Koh Toch, renowned for its vibrant marine ecosystem, which makes for fantastic photos and underwater discovery. After snorkeling, the tour includes a stop at Long Beach, where you can unwind and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Guests appreciate the attentive service and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The slightly higher price reflects the personalized nature of the trip, making it well worth it for those wanting a more intimate experience or traveling with a small group.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you value privacy and flexibility, especially for honeymooners or small groups wanting a custom snorkel adventure.
$85.00 per person
3. Koh Rong Fishing & Snorkeling tour (Private)
The third option blends fishing and snorkeling into a single 6-hour private tour, rated at 3.0/5 from 1 review. For $85 per person, you’ll visit Koh Toch for snorkel fun, then experience traditional fishing around Koh Rong and relax on Long Beach.
This tour’s main attraction is the combination of fishing at Koh Rong, where you might catch species like grouper or snapper, and snorkeling in waters full of colorful fish and corals. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy both activities or want to try their luck fishing as the sun sets. The itinerary includes a stop at Koh Toch for snorkeling, a fishing session near Koh Rong, and plenty of time to relax on Long Beach, soaking up the sunset views.
The mixed focus of fishing and snorkeling appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who want more than just underwater sightseeing. However, the review score suggests it may not be as polished as the pure snorkeling tours, but the experience of trying local fishing methods adds a unique touch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for anglers or those wanting a true fishing and snorkeling combo, especially if you enjoy combining land and sea activities.
$85.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Snorkeling Experience
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. For a budget-friendly, all-in-one day packed with reef exploration, the Koh Rong Tour: A Snorkeling, Fishing, Sunset, Plankton offers incredible value. If privacy and a tailored experience matter most, the Koh Rong Snorkeling Tour (Private) provides flexibility and personalized attention. For those keen on combining fishing with snorkeling or wanting a more active day, the Koh Rong Fishing & Snorkeling tour (Private) delivers.
When booking, consider the time of year—dry season from November to April tends to offer the best weather and visibility. Always confirm what’s included (meals, equipment, etc.) and look for reviews to gauge the quality of guides and boats.
Final Thoughts
The South Coast of Cambodia offers a range of snorkeling experiences suited to different travelers. From budget-friendly group tours to private, customizable adventures, there’s something for all. For a full-day trip with diverse activities and the chance to see plankton at sunset, the first tour is hard to beat. If privacy and flexibility are your priorities, the private snorkeling tour is a smart choice. For those who want a mix of fishing and snorkeling, the third option provides a unique, more active experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise—these tours tend to fill up, especially during peak dry season. With these options, you’re set for fantastic underwater sights and memorable days on Cambodia’s beautiful south coast.