A simple beautyRabbit Island is what I would imagine some of Thailand’s islands to be like, only 15 years ago. It’s pretty much undeveloped AND that’s the exact reason why you should go there. With no internet, no fancy hotels and not a huge amount to do, Cambodia’s Rabbit Island is a simple paradise in its true form. It’s raw and rugged beauty is what draws many travellers here- to escape and reconnect with nature and to get away from the busyness of the mainland.
Rabbit Island’s real name is Koh Tonsay and is a 30 minute boat ride from Kep. You can easily buy a ticket for the boat and accommodation together, from tour agencies by the harbour. Extra food, water and alcohol are cheaper if bought on the mainland beforehand but available for purchase on the island as well.
The Accommodation…
Once arriving on the island you will find simple wooden and straw shacks lined along the main beach. This is the only accommodation and it’s very very cheap. You will have a simple bed, a fan and a toilet depending on if you want to pay a tiny bit more. I had a private deck chair and hammock also on my little balcony. Although basic, most people only stay a night or few so it’s fine for a short time. I mean it’s the same price as a hostel room but you have an entire hut and right on the ocean too!
The little island has several small beach cafes along the main section, serving fresh seafood, noodles, rice and some western breakfast type dishes. There is nothing much over the other side of the island other than a few local houses and you can walk around the whole island in about 2 hours. That’s probably the most energetic thing you will do here, with maybe the exception of swimming in the ocean.
The island never has too many visitors at one time so its the perfect place to just sit and do nothing. You can read a book, write in your journal, or just nap in a hammock, whilst listening to the gentle waves rolling into shore. The sunsets are incredible too, right over the ocean! Am I selling you yet?!
Come here to escape the crowds…
Simplicity is welcome to the many travellers needing a break from the hurried pace of life and the Rabbit Island really allows you to unwind. Electricity is on a generator and is only switched on for a few hours in the evening. There is no wifi, no bars, just peace and quiet. And that’s what makes this place so great. Apart from the fact there are no rabbits, I was disappointed about that! Apparently the island is shaped like a rabbit? (supposedly).
I would definitely spend the night here as opposed to booking just a day trip, as before you’ve had time to really…and I mean really relax then it would be time to leave again! This is a favourite place in Cambodia and far from the more livelier beaches of Sihanoukville. If you’re looking for a quiet, untamed beauty then look no further. More on Cambodia:
More on Cambodia:ย A Must Do: Riding Battambang’s Bamboo Train, Cambodia
If you’re heading to Cambodia make sure you get yourself a copy of this book. It’s a hard hitting and emotional read but I would DEFINITELY recommend for an insight into Cambodia’s past. Buy on Amazon UK or Amazon US
