Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) in Kampot and Kep
Part of the Kampot and Kep travel guide — see every topic in All Kampot and Kep Guides.
Rabbit Island, or Koh Tonsay in Khmer, is a small green island about 4 km off the coast of Kep. It is about 2 square kilometres in size, with a sandy beach, coconut palms and a forest hill. There is no road link to the mainland, and most places to stay are simple bungalows. Most people come for a day of swimming, lying in a hammock and eating fresh seafood. This guide covers the boat, the beach, an overnight stay and the best season.
The boat from Kep
Boats to Rabbit Island leave from a small pier near Kep. The trip usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the boat and the sea. Most boats leave in the morning and return in the afternoon. You can buy a return ticket at the pier, or book through a guesthouse or tour in Kep or Kampot. Some tours include transport from Kampot. Agree the return time before you leave, and be at the beach on time. In rough weather the trip can be wet and bumpy, and boats may not run at all.
The beach
The boats land on the main beach, a long strip of sand on the side facing the mainland. Simple wooden huts line the back of the beach. They serve grilled fish, crab, squid and cold drinks, and rent hammocks and beach chairs. The water is shallow and calm on most days, which makes it good for a slow swim. The sand is not as fine as on the bigger islands, and sometimes there is seaweed. But the mood is quiet and relaxed. Look back across the water for a view of the green hills of Kep and Bokor.
Walking and swimming
A path runs around parts of the island. It passes small beaches, rocks and fishing families' homes. A walk around the coast takes a few hours. Some parts can be rough, so wear good sandals and bring water. The water around the rocks is clear on calm days, and you can see small fish with a mask. There is no large coral reef, so do not expect big snorkel sites. Swim close to the shore and watch out for boats. There are no lifeguards. In the middle of the day the sun is very strong, so rest in the shade.
Staying overnight
A few simple bungalows on the main beach take guests for the night. They are basic: wooden huts with a bed, a mosquito net and a shared or simple bathroom. Electricity may only run for a few hours in the evening. A large resort project has been under construction on part of the island, so check what is open. After the day boats leave, the beach becomes very quiet. You can watch the sunset, eat dinner on the beach and see many stars. Book ahead at busy times, and bring enough cash, as cards are rarely accepted. Bring a torch, insect repellent and anything else you need from the mainland.
When to go
The best time is the dry season, from about November to April. The sea is usually calm and the sky is clear. From about May to October, the wet season brings rain and wind. On some days the sea is rough and boats may be cancelled. Check the weather the day before, and ask at the pier in the morning. Weekends and holidays are busy, with many families from Phnom Penh. Weekdays are much quieter. If you want the beach almost to yourself, take the first boat in the morning.
Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) at a glance
| Getting there | Boat from the pier near Kep, about 20 to 30 minutes |
|---|---|
| Hours | Day boats go out in the morning and return in the afternoon |
| Cost | Return boat ticket plus food and drinks; bring cash |
| Best time | November to April for calm seas; weekdays are quieter |
| Bring | Cash, sun cream, water, a torch and insect repellent |