Buzz
Koh Tonsay Island, also known as Rabbit Island, is celebrated for its untouched and poetic charm. If you seek an escape from the bustling city life and yearn for tranquility, this is the perfect destination. With its pristine nature, crystal-clear waters, and white sandy beaches, the island promises an unforgettable retreat. Let’s explore what makes this island so beloved by travelers!
A Glimpse into Koh Tonsay Island
Apart from being called Rabbit Island, Koh Tonsay is also known as Koh Tunsay or Kaoh Tunsay. Located in the Kep Province of southern Cambodia, the island is approximately 30 km from the Ha Tien border and 5 km from Kep. Thanks to minimal human interference, Koh Tonsay Island has largely retained its unspoiled natural beauty.
For those who love immersing themselves in nature, Koh Rong Island is truly an ideal paradise. The air here is almost always cool, surrounded by the sea, and the sunlight is gentle, never too harsh or glaring. The white sandy beaches and rows of green coconut trees make this place even more perfect.
Koh Tonsay Island with its distinctly tropical beauty (Image source: Collected)
However, this place is only suitable for those who truly enjoy adventure and exploration. The island has no wifi, and electricity is not available all day. There are also no resorts or luxurious accommodations. But this gives you the chance to disconnect from technology and let go of your worries. Here, even a simple book is enough to help you pass the time.
When you visit Koh Tonsay Island, you’ll fully appreciate the value of time. Every hour, minute, and second seems to slow down, allowing you to savor the entire day. If you need a dose of “vitamin sea” or want to escape the hustle and bustle, this is the place to be!
The Ideal Time to Explore Koh Tonsay Island
To ensure the best experience, it’s important to choose the right time for your visit. This will make your trip more enjoyable. The ideal period to visit Koh Tonsay Island is from December to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with warm sunshine and minimal rain, making it perfect for exploration.
Visiting at the right time ensures a fulfilling and meaningful trip (Image source: Collected)
Alternatively, you can visit during other times of the year. However, it’s best to avoid the rainy season from August to October. During this period, boats are often prohibited from going to the island, and many tourist activities are restricted due to safety concerns.
How to Travel to Koh Tonsay Island
Getting to Koh Tonsay Island is not difficult, as the island is quite close to the Xà Xía border gate (Hà Tiên), making it convenient for travelers. If you’re coming from Vietnam, you’ll need to complete immigration procedures to enter Cambodia. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the Kep pier, which takes about 30 minutes. Once at the pier, you can purchase a boat ticket to reach Koh Tonsay Island.
If you miss the regular boat, you can opt for a wooden boat experience. This journey takes around 20 minutes and costs $15. In total, traveling from the Xà Xía border gate will take approximately 2 hours. For a more comfortable option, you can choose a private 7-seater boat for about $30.
Boats will take you to Koh Tonsay Island (Image source: Collected)
If you wish to stay overnight on Koh Tonsay Island, you can negotiate with the boat owner. Alternatively, there are Rabbit Island tours available for just $25, which include meals. If interested, you can research further to find reputable providers.
If you’re starting your journey from Phnom Penh, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Kep city. Here’s how:
- Taxis are ideal for groups of 4-5 people. If you book from Phsar Deum Kor, the fare ranges from $26 to $32 per trip.
- Buses. You can choose Sorya Bus Company from the central bus station or opt for bus number 168 or take a bus from QL2 for $40 one way. This journey takes approximately 5 hours to reach Kep city.
The Untouched Beauty of Koh Tonsay Island
Koh Tonsay Island spans 2 km2 and is shaped like a rabbit. Its serene landscape has earned it the reputation of being a hidden gem of Cambodia. Despite its untouched nature, you’ll find basic amenities like restaurants and guesthouses to cater to visitors. The island also has a small population scattered across its area.
Beyond its beaches, the island boasts lush greenery and towering coconut palms along the coastline. This adds to the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the place. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for swimming, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
Thanks to minimal human intervention, the island’s scenery remains pristine and untouched (Image source: Collected)
Since Koh Tonsay Island hasn’t been developed for tourism, there are no water sports or recreational activities like those found in other beach destinations. This makes the island perfect for those seeking a quiet and relaxing retreat.
Exciting Activities to Enjoy on Koh Tonsay Island
While not as bustling or modern as other destinations, Koh Tonsay Island is far from boring. There are plenty of fun activities waiting for you to explore!
1. Swimming in the Sea
The island’s beaches are pristine, with cool waters and soft white sand. The shallow sea and gentle slope make it a safe spot for swimming and bathing. It’s no wonder that most visitors can’t resist diving into the refreshing waters.
Swimming is a must-do activity when visiting Koh Tonsay (Image source: Collected)
When you’re here, you can enjoy fun beachside activities with friends, such as volleyball, fishing, or sunbathing. Lying on the sand and gazing at the endless sky is truly a wonderful experience. Watching the sunrise or sunset over the sea is also a favorite among visitors.
2. Snorkeling to See Coral
One highlight you can’t miss is the diverse marine ecosystem of Koh Tonsay Island. The underwater world is home to stunning coral reefs and a variety of marine life, making snorkeling a popular activity for many travelers.
However, if you want to experience snorkeling to see coral, it’s best to join a guided tour. Most Koh Tonsay Island exploration tours include snorkeling with professional guidance. This is undoubtedly an exciting activity for ocean enthusiasts!
3. Relaxing Massage Experience
Another enjoyable activity on Koh Tonsay Island is indulging in a relaxing massage. You can opt for a massage at one of the beachside huts, each equipped with comfortable mats and served by local residents. This activity is reasonably priced, and the soothing aroma of coconut oil will help you unwind completely.
Enjoying a massage while taking in the ocean view is truly unmatched (Image source: Collected)
4. Other Activities
Beyond the activities mentioned above, there are several other things you can try on Koh Tonsay Island. If you’re looking to stay active, you can go trekking through the forest to explore the island’s ecosystem. This adventure is sure to be filled with exciting discoveries!
Trekking is another exciting activity you shouldn’t miss (Image source: Collected)
Alternatively, you can paddle a boat around the sea to see Koh Tonsay Island from a different perspective. Some visitors hire local fishermen to take them to nearby islands. Who knows? You might discover hidden paths leading to fishing villages or other scenic spots!
Where to Stay on Koh Tonsay Island
Most visitors explore Koh Tonsay Island as a day trip. However, if you wish to stay overnight, there are bungalows available. Tourism services on the island are still developing, so there are only about 20 bungalows along the beach, each costing between $10 and $15 per night.
Overnight guests will stay in these bungalows (Image source: Collected)
However, it’s important to note that the bungalows here are quite basic and electricity is only available from 6 AM to 9 PM. Each bungalow can accommodate 3 to 4 people and comes with basic bedding like blankets and pillows.
At first glance, they resemble the traditional leaf houses found in Vietnam. These structures are erected on sandy grounds, nestled beside coconut groves, and face the sea. This natural setup ensures a cool breeze, eliminating the need for fans or air conditioning. The sea-facing design is perfect for enjoying the scenery and capturing stunning photos.
What to eat on Koh Tonsay Island?
Your adventure on Koh Tonsay Island wouldn't be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Rest assured, the island hosts several restaurants for your dining pleasure. Most eateries here boast a simple, rustic design, serving fresh seafood and delightful local specialties.
It would be a miss to visit Koh Tonsay and not try the seafood (Image source: Collected)
The island's dishes are prepared to suit your taste buds and come at reasonable prices. Additionally, Koh Tonsay offers a variety of tropical fruits and other snacks. You can indulge in a satisfying meal without worrying about overspending.
Things to keep in mind when exploring Koh Tonsay
There are a few things to consider if you plan to explore Koh Tonsay Island. These tips will ensure your journey is more enjoyable and fulfilling. Below are some small reminders for your trip.
Take note of these small tips to make your trip more enjoyable! (Image source: Collected)
- Remember to bring a portable phone charger, swimwear, and other personal items. Since tourism services on the island are not highly developed, it can be challenging to purchase essentials here.
- Don’t forget to pack sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent for your trip.
- Bungalows on the island are limited, so make sure to book in advance if you plan to stay overnight.
- Food and accommodation prices on the island are reasonable, but it’s always a good idea to check prices before purchasing or using any services.
With the above insights, you now have a glimpse of what Koh Tonsay Island has to offer. It would be a shame to miss this fascinating destination on your journey to the Land of Pagodas. Since the island remains relatively untouched, ensure you’re well-prepared for your visit. To book your Cambodia tour, contact Mytour via hotline 028 3827 0404.
