History — Founded by the French in 1908 as a chic seaside resort.
In the 1950s and 1960s, it was Cambodia's elite resort (with modernist-style villas of New Khmer architecture).
During the Khmer Rouge period (1975–1979), everything fell into disrepair; many luxury villas were abandoned or looted and now stand in ruins on the hills (eerie but photogenic).
Current Atmosphere — Quiet, relaxed, much less mass-tourism than Sihanoukville.
Popular with Cambodians themselves on weekends and with travelers seeking peace and quiet and good food.
Known for: Kep Crab Market → the main attraction: fresh crab (especially with Kampot pepper), shrimp, fish, and other seafood.
You choose your own, and they prepare it immediately.
Kep Beach → small, semicircular beach with calm seas.
Not pristine white sand, but great for swimming.
Bustier on weekends with locals.
Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) → small island a 20–30-minute boat ride away.
Beautiful beaches, clear water, basic huts, and restaurants.
Kep National Park → jungle-like hills directly behind the town.
Good hiking trails, butterflies, viewpoints, and views of the sea.
Remains of the old villas → walk/cycle among the dilapidated French and Khmer modernist houses (some now covered in graffiti).
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