Kep your eyes open for Cambodia’s hidden coastal gem

Kep, a tiny coastal province, has been a well-kept secret among Cambodians for decades despite its proximity to Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island. But thanks to a new coastal road along Angkol Beach, the revitalisation of colonial-era buildings into hotels, and development on Rabbit Island, Kep is poised to offer a fresh take on Cambodia’s ancient temples for travellers.

Once a retreat for French colonists and wealthy Cambodians, Kep “used to be the Saint Tropez of Cambodia during the golden era (colonial times and pre-Khmer Rouge)," said Courtney Cader, General Manager of Saravoan Kep Hotel, a boutique hotel overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. "Affluent Cambodians built grand villas here for their vacations." While many of these villas have been turned into hotels, others have been abandoned and are being overtaken by jungle, creating a striking visual contrast.

The former royal palace in Kep has been converted into a museum, offering insights into the province’s royal history. "The grounds and buildings are open to the public for free," Cader said, highlighting the site's historical value.

Crab is so popular in Kep that the province even has a statue of it. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Nguyen Duc Huy

Kep is also known for its fresh seafood, particularly blue crab, a local specialty. "Kep’s identity is tied to its crab," Cader explained. Visitors flock to the Crab Market, where they can enjoy this delicacy, along with a range of fusion restaurants.

Nature lovers will appreciate the 2.7-kilometre beach, national park, salt fields, mangrove forests, and caves. "There’s music every weekend at different venues, organised by Kep Music City and Art For Kep," Cader added, referring to the growing arts and music scene in the area.

Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (Cambodian chapter), also noted the importance of the Art for Kep initiative, which promotes local artists and integrates art into public spaces. "It enhances the overall visitor experience," he said.

A bamboo bridge encircles Phnom Teuk Thom caves, surrounded by paddy fields and water buffaloes.

For a more adventurous experience, the countryside around Kep offers impressive limestone outcrops and caves. The Moon Cave in Kampong Trach features a beautiful blue water pool, while Phnom Teuk Thom, about 40 minutes away, is home to Cambodia's second-longest bamboo bridge. "During the rainy season, the caves are surrounded by flooded rice fields and water buffaloes grazing," Cader described.

Rabbit Island, just off the coast, offers visitors rustic accommodation in wooden chalets, hammocks, or beach shacks, along with beach barbecues. "Half of Rabbit Island is being developed, with luxury accommodations being built," Cader said. "The island remains rustic, but that’s part of its charm."

Rabbit Island, or Koh Tonsay, is a tranquil Cambodian retreat known for its crystal-clear beaches, rustic wooden chalets, and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Photo Credit: Tripadvisor/Anne D

Marine Conservation Cambodia is working to protect local marine life, including planting sea grass for dugongs and sustaining habitats for pink dolphins and coral reefs.

Kep’s combination of natural beauty, tranquillity, and rich cultural heritage makes it an increasingly attractive destination. "What sets Kep apart is its peaceful atmosphere, stunning nature, and the opportunity to explore nearby islands," Thourn Sinan said. "The development of Rabbit Island will offer visitors a unique blend of relaxation and adventure."