“Kep Crab Market is a paradise for seafood lovers, featuring the freshest Blue Swimmer Crabs caught directly from the sea, alongside unique dining experiences at seaside restaurants.”
The Kep Crab Market Or Phsar Kdam is the epicenter for fresh seafood in Kep, Cambodia. It is famous as the place to find the region's signature Blue Swimmer Crab at the most accessible prices and with the highest level of freshness. Visiting the market offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen and vendors engaged in bustling trade. The seaside atmosphere, surrounded by seafood stalls and restaurants, makes it a mandatory stop for all tourists.
The unique charm of Kep Crab Market lies in the traditional methods of crab catching still employed by local wisdom and the display of live crabs in floating baskets near the shore. Customers can select their own crabs, prawns, shellfish, or fish from the vendors and have them cooked instantly. Most restaurants are constructed on stilts extending over the sea, allowing visitors to savor excellent seafood while enjoying the scenic views of the Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding islands, especially Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island), which is not far away.
The market begins its bustling activities in the early morning and remains lively until the evening. Particularly, the late afternoon and evening hours are perfect for dining while watching the sunset. The golden light of the evening reflecting on the water and the food stalls creates a warm and romantic ambiance, making it a memorable experience for all visitors. The appetizing aroma of seafood cooked with Kampot Pepper, the nation's famous spice, blended with the sea breeze, is truly stimulating to the palate.
How to Get There
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Tuk-Tuk/Motorbike Taxi: The easiest and quickest way to get there from Kep town or most accommodations.
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Private Taxi/Van: If traveling from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, you can hire a private taxi or van to Kep, then take a short ride to the market.
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Bus: Buses are available from major Cambodian cities to Kep. Upon arrival at the bus station, you can take a tuk-tuk to the market.
Travel Tips
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Best Visiting Season: The market is open all year, but the months from November to April offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and less rain, making them ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the sea view.
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Attire and Equipment: Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes or sandals, as the area is mostly open and by the sea. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, or an umbrella for sun protection.
- Travel Planning: Parking is limited at the market. If visiting during weekends or holidays, allow extra time for finding parking.
Admission Fee:
- no admission fee.
Opening Hours:
- Open Daily: The market is active throughout the day, with the main trade beginning very early in the morning (around 5:00 AM), and restaurants typically remaining open until the evening (around 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM).