Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay)
Twenty to 40 minutes by local boat from Kep is Rabbit Island. A place of white sandy beaches and coconut palms, it is an idyllic day trip from either Kampot or Kep. Although the waters are clear there is no coral, but don't let that put you off donning a mask and flippers. Rabbit Island is a place of psychedelic fish.
There are some beach bars in which you can stay the night for about $10, though conditions are very basic. Seafood here is great. Most likely when you order crab on Rabbit Island, your restaurateur will wade out into the tepid ocean and haul your lunch directly from one of the crab pots. It doesn't come fresher than that. A boat for the return trip costs $20. Guesthouses offer a package for $7, but you won't get to pick your own boat, beach, and crab buddies.
Koh Tonsay, or the Rabbit Island, is the choice of visitors who would like to experience the beaches in Kampot. It comes close to the ideal tropical island, with its fine white sand, coconut palms on the beach, basic accommodations, and few tourists. There are, however, a few local families living there.
Things to Do in Rabbit Island
Rabbit Island is undeveloped, and the only thing that one can do here is swimming, beachcombing, and walking around. The water is shallow and there are no corals, so diving is out. Snorkeling may be good though, for there are many-colored fish in the area.
One of the best things to do here is to eat seafood, especially the crabs. Enjoy it fresh off the ocean every time you order. For those who love to get physical, the whole island is only around six kilometers around and can be walked in three hours and ran in less than one or two hours. The views include fishing communities and the occasional wildlife and household animals.
The island is 20-40 minutes by boat (around $20, return) from Kep, which is around two hours from Kampot. Trips are best made through a local travel operator or through the hotel or guesthouse.
Rabbit Island is perfect for those who love quiet and basic accommodations (beachside, unreliable electricity, mosquito nets) are available for only around $7-8 per night.
