Context
Koh Kong private island is an unspoilt island retreat where there is a deep respect for nature. Strongly believe that ecotourism can act as a catalyst for positive change through the preservation and regeneration of the rich wealth in bio-diversity and nature characteristic and beyond, creating a new destination for responsible tourism in Cambodia. Therefore, the project will house a mid – luxury resort situated across this uninhabited island, steeped in nature and culture, setting new standards for sustainable tourism development and bring about the next generation of luxury travel to put Cambodia on the international tourism map, representing the new image of Sihanoukville.
Vision
A private island master plan envisioned as a premier eco-tourism destination, thoughtfully integrated with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical hillsides, creating a new iconic destination.
Strategy
The zoning strategy seeks to preserve and enhance the site’s natural characteristics while creating a diverse range of resort experiences and journeys. Vehicular circulation is guided by a car-lite approach, with a main road circumnavigating the island to provide essential access to all uses, while internal movement is primarily supported by buggies and other energy-efficient vehicles.
A substantial portion of the island is retained as undisturbed forest, complemented by dedicated eco-parks connected through a network of trails and waterways.
The phasing strategy prioritises beachfront development and the delivery of essential infrastructure needed to support subsequent phases. Hilltop development is reserved for the final phase, allowing its value and exclusivity to increase as the resort becomes established.
The master plan is organised around five distinct hospitality experiences: the vibrant Beach Village and beachfront resorts, the tranquil Lakeside Retreat, the secluded Hillside Sunset zone, and the panoramic Hilltop 360 destination. Together, these precincts offer a carefully sequenced journey from active waterfront arrival areas to immersive forest, lake and elevated experiences, while ensuring that each resort retains a strong relationship with the island’s landscape and coastal setting.
The eastern beachfront forms the island’s primary arrival and activity hub, bringing together family-oriented resorts, a luxury villa collection, beach clubs, water sports, dining and public piers. At the heart of the island, an existing low-lying catchment is transformed into a freshwater reservoir and lakeside eco-retreat, supported by boardwalks, learning facilities, regenerative farming, solar infrastructure and nature-based recreation. The western hillside and hilltop areas provide lower-density wellness, private villa and treetop experiences oriented toward sunset views and panoramic outlooks.
Sustainability is embedded in the island’s overall structure and operation. Approximately 60 per cent of the site is retained as forest, with development concentrated in carefully selected areas and connected by green corridors, waterways, coastal walks and forest trails. Water collection and treatment, renewable energy, waste management, service access and staff accommodation are integrated into the plan to support a largely self-sustaining destination and establish a long-term model for responsible luxury tourism in Cambodia.
VI