Kep Province, Cambodia Travel Guide

Discover Kep Province, Cambodia's serene coastal gem, offering tranquil beaches, lush national parks, fresh seafood, and rich colonial history.

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Kep Province

Nestled along Cambodia's southern coast, Kep Province is a serene escape from the bustling cities. Known for its tranquil beaches, lush national parks, and charming colonial history, Kep offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Kep Beach, with its calm waters and warm sand, is the perfect spot for relaxation. Just a short distance away, Kep National Park invites visitors to explore its scenic trails, where you can encounter diverse wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. The province is also famous for its fresh seafood, especially the renowned Kep crab. At the bustling Crab Market, you can taste this local delicacy prepared in various mouth-watering ways. For a touch of history, visit the abandoned French villas that whisper tales of a bygone era, or take a boat trip to Rabbit Island for a day of adventure and discovery. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural insights, Kep Province promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Cambodia's natural splendor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kep Province.

Visit during the dry season from November to May for the best weather.
Rent a motorbike to explore the area conveniently and at your own pace.
Try the famous Kep crab at the Crab Market for an authentic local dining experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking in Kep National Park.
Bring cash as many local vendors do not accept credit cards.

Explore Kep Province: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kep Province

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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White Lady Statue

Explore the mystical allure of the White Lady Statue in Krong Kaeb, a historical landmark that embodies Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

4.1

Trapeang Sangkae Mangrove forest

Explore the serene beauty of Trapeang Sangkae Mangrove Forest in Kampot, a sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers alike.

4.5

Coconut Beach

Experience the tranquility of Coconut Beach in Krong Kampot, a perfect destination for relaxation, stunning sunsets, and local cuisine.

3.5

Seahorse

Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Seahorse in Kampot, a must-visit tourist attraction in Cambodia.

4.5

Best landmarks in Kep Province

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Best Landmarks

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Kep Beach

Discover Kep Beach: a serene Cambodian escape with a rich history, tranquil shores, and fresh seafood delights.

4.0

Kep City

Discover Kep City: Cambodia's tranquil coastal escape with rich history, fresh seafood, and natural beauty. A perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

4.3

Kep Crab Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kep Crab Market, where you can savor fresh seafood and immerse yourself in Cambodian coastal culture.

4.1

Kep National Park

Discover lush trails, stunning views & wildlife in Kep National Park, Cambodia's coastal gem. Perfect for hiking, nature & serene escapes.

4.2

Best restaurants in Kep Province

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Kimly Seafood Restaurant

Experience authentic Cambodian seafood cuisine at Kimly Seafood Restaurant in Krong Kaeb – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.

4.1

The Sailing Club Restaurant in Kep

Discover exceptional dining at The Sailing Club Restaurant in Kep - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.5

Holy Crab

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Holy Crab in Krong Kaeb - where freshness meets flavor in every bite.

4.7

Saravoan Kep Hotel . Restaurant . Bar . Coffee

Discover relaxation at Saravoan Kep Hotel: A coastal haven offering delightful dining experiences and breathtaking views in Krong Kaeb.

4.3

Best bars in Kep Province

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Best Bars

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The Sailing Club Restaurant in Kep

Discover exquisite dining and stunning ocean views at The Sailing Club Restaurant in Kep, a culinary gem on Cambodia's coast.

4.5

Holy Crab

Discover the ultimate seafood experience at Holy Crab in Krong Kaeb, where freshness meets flavor in a delightful coastal setting.

4.7

Saravoan Kep Hotel . Restaurant . Bar . Coffee

Experience coastal bliss at Saravoan Kep, where exceptional dining, refreshing drinks, and comfortable accommodations meet the beauty of Cambodia's coastline.

4.3

Martini bar restaurant

Indulge in a vibrant culinary experience at Martini Bar Restaurant, where local flavors meet international cuisine in the heart of Krong Kep.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Kep Province

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The Sailing Club Restaurant in Kep

Experience exquisite seafood and breathtaking ocean views at The Sailing Club Restaurant in the enchanting town of Kep, Cambodia.

4.5

Kep Lodge

Discover tranquility at Kep Lodge, a luxurious resort hotel in Krong Kaeb featuring exquisite dining, stunning nature views, and relaxing amenities for an unforgettable getaway.

4.3

Le bouchon de Kep

Discover the vibrant flavors and stunning seaside views at Le Bouchon de Kep, the ideal bar and restaurant for travelers in Krong Kaeb, Cambodia.

4.7

Levels Entertainment Bar

Experience the heartbeat of Kampot's nightlife at Levels Entertainment Bar, where every night is filled with fun, drinks, and games.

4.9

Best shops in Kep Province

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Best Shops

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Kep Crab Market

Explore the vibrant Kep Crab Market, a seafood haven where fresh catches meet local culinary delights in a picturesque coastal setting.

4.1

Sothy's Pepper Farm

Experience the rich flavors and sustainable farming practices at Sothy's Pepper Farm in Kampot, Cambodia, a must-visit for food lovers and culture seekers.

4.6

BoTree Farm

Experience the essence of Cambodia at BoTree Farm, where local flavors, fresh produce, and stunning landscapes come together in harmony.

4.9

Kep Market

Explore Kep Market: A Local Cambodian Market Offering Fresh Produce, Seafood, and Unique Handicrafts in a Vibrant Atmosphere.

3.8

Explore Kep Province on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kep Province, mapped for you.

Kep Province Essentials

Kep Province is located in southern Cambodia, approximately 170 kilometers from Phnom Penh, the capital city. The most convenient way to get to Kep is by road. You can take a taxi, bus, or minivan from Phnom Penh. The journey usually takes around 3 to 4 hours. Buses and minivans depart frequently from the central bus stations in Phnom Penh. Alternatively, you can hire a private car for a more comfortable journey.
Within Kep Province, transportation options include tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and bicycles. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are readily available and can be hired for short trips or day tours. Bicycle rentals are popular among tourists who want to explore the area at a leisurely pace. For longer trips, car rentals are available, but driving conditions can be challenging due to narrow roads and varying road conditions.
The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for small purchases and in rural areas. ATMs are available in Kep, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Phnom Penh before traveling.
Kep is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Kep, but it is always best to stay vigilant. Additionally, be cautious when swimming in the sea, as there may be strong currents.
In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is located in Kampot, approximately 25 kilometers away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Kep where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a slight bow. A traditional greeting involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kep Province like a local, visit the Kep Crab Market, where you can buy fresh seafood and enjoy it at nearby restaurants. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss a visit to Kep National Park, which offers scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the coastline. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) for a day of relaxation and exploration.

When is the best time to visit Kep Province?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kep Province

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kep Province. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloសួស្តី
  [suostei]
- Goodbyeលាហើសួស្តី
  [lear suostei]
- Yesបាទ
  [baat]
- Noទេ
  [te]
- Please/You're welcomeសូម
  [som]
- Thank youអរគុណ
  [aokun]
- Excuse me/Sorryសុខសប្តាសារ/សុខសប្តស្រល
  [sok sabai rai/sok sabai srol]
- How are you?អ្នកសុខសប្ត?
  [neak sok sabai?]
- Fine. And you?សុខសប្តដោយៗៗអ្នក?
  [sok sabai doy doy neak?]
- Do you speak English?អ្នកនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសបានទេ?
  [neak niyay phasa angkleis ban te?]
- I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនឃើញ
  [knhom min khern]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុយអត្ថបទសូម
  [knhom chong meul menu at teat bat som]
- I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបានបរិយបាន
  [knhom min ban baray ban]
- Cheers!ជូស!
  [chol]
- I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់សូម
  [knhom chong bong braek som]
- Help!ជំរុញ!
  [chom roh]
- Go away!លោកពីជួយ!
  [lok pi chuoy]
- Call the Police!ហេតុការប្រទេយ!
  [het kar prateh]
- Call a doctor!ហេតុការវេជ្ជបណ្ឌ!
  [het kar vejjabon]
- I'm lostខ្ញុំភ្លេច
  [knhom plech]
- I'm illខ្ញុំជាក់
  [knhom jak]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
  [knhom chong tien...]
- I'm just lookingខ្ញុំតែខប់
  [knhom tae kop]
- How much is it?តើវាតិចម៉េច?
  [te veat moc?]
- That's too expensiveនេះមិនត្រូវទេ
  [neh min trov te]
- Can you lower the price?តើអ្នកអាចថយទិកបានទេ?
  [te neak ach tay tuk ban te?]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងប៉ះណា?
  [moeung bahnha?]
- It's one o'clockវាគឺម៉ាស?
  [veat ke mas?]
- Half past (10)កន្សែងនៅលើ (10)
  [kansae nai ler (10)]
- Morningព្រឹក
  [prek]
- Afternoonល្ងាច
  [langcha]
- Eveningល្ងាច
  [langcha]
- Yesterdayម្សិល
  [msul]
- Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
  [thngai neh]
- Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែ
  [thngai sae]
- 1១
  [mouy]
- 2២
  [pii]
- 3៣
  [bei]
- 4៤
  [buon]
- 5៥
  [pram]
- 6៦
  [pram mui]
- 7៧
  [pram pii]
- 8៨
  [pram bei]
- 9៩
  [pram buon]
- 10១០
  [dop]
- Where's a/the...?មួយ...នៅណា?
  [muoy... nai na?]
- What's the address?អាសយដ្ឋមួយ?
  [asayat muoy?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?តើអ្នកអាចបង្ហាញទៅខ្លួនខ្លះបានទេ?
  [te neak ach bonghang tvi klun kloh ban te?]
- When's the next (bus)?នៅណាមួយទៅទៅ?
  [nai na muoy tvi tvi?]
- A ticket (to ....)សំបុត្រមួយ (ទៅ ...)
  [sombot muoy (tvi ...)]

History of Kep Province

Kep Province traces its roots back to the early 20th century when it was established as a French colonial resort town. Known as Kep-sur-Mer, it attracted wealthy French colonists and Cambodian elite, who built luxurious villas along its picturesque coastline. The architectural remnants of this period can still be seen today, showcasing a blend of French and Khmer influences.
During the 1960s, Kep was in its golden age, often compared to the French Riviera. It was a popular getaway for the Cambodian elite and royals, including King Norodom Sihanouk. However, the Khmer Rouge takeover in the 1970s led to the province's decline. Many of the villas were abandoned or destroyed, and Kep became a ghost town.
Following the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime, efforts to restore Kep began in the 1990s. While many of the colonial villas remain in ruins, they add to the area's mystique and historical allure. The Cambodian government and private investors have worked to revitalize Kep, focusing on eco-tourism and sustainable development.
Kep is not only rich in history but also in natural beauty. Kep National Park, established in 1993, covers over 50 square kilometers and is home to diverse flora and fauna. The park offers hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, inviting travelers to explore its lush landscapes and serene environment.
One of Kep's most iconic landmarks is the Crab Market, locally known as 'Psar Kdam.' This bustling market is a cultural treasure trove where visitors can experience the local way of life. Fresh seafood, especially the famous Kep blue crabs, is sold directly by fishermen. The market is a testament to Kep's enduring connection to the sea and its fishing heritage.
Phnom Voar, a mountain in Kep Province, holds significant historical importance. It served as a Khmer Rouge stronghold during the Cambodian Civil War. Today, visitors can hike to the summit and learn about its tumultuous past while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Kep is home to several pagodas and spiritual sites that reflect its cultural and religious heritage. Wat Samathi, located on a hill, offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. The pagoda complex includes beautiful gardens and statues, providing insights into Cambodian Buddhism and local traditions.