Koh Rong Ranked Among World’s Top 10 Beaches  

PHNOM PENH, May 7, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Koh Rong has been ranked the ninth best beach in the world for 2026, according to the annual World’s 50 Best Beaches report, compiled from votes by more than 1,000 travel professionals and influencers.

The ranking, published by Forbes, highlights Koh Rong as one of Southeast Asia’s rising coastal destinations, increasingly recognized beyond the region’s established tourism hotspots.

Travel experts praised the island’s untouched coastline, relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, describing it as offering a slower and more authentic beach experience.

“Reached by boat, much of the coastline remains lightly developed, which helps preserve a slower, more relaxed feel,” said Tine Holst, cofounder of The World’s 50 Best Beaches. She added that Koh Rong’s long stretches of soft white sand and calm turquoise waters make it ideal for visitors seeking both relaxation and nature based travel.

Holst noted that the rankings were shaped by more than 1,000 vetted travel industry experts who regularly explore destinations worldwide. “What sets this report apart is the depth behind it. Our ranking is shaped by people who spend their lives exploring coastlines, not reviewing from a distance,” she said.

Officials said the recognition supports Cambodia’s broader push to promote coastal and eco tourism, diversifying its tourism sector beyond cultural heritage sites such as Angkor Wat.

This year’s top ranked beach globally was Entalula Beach in the Philippines, followed by Fteri Beach in Greece and Wharton Beach in Australia.