Kep Crab Market - Image 1
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Kep Crab Market

4.1
·5k reviews·Krong Kaeb, Cambodia

A vibrant coastal market famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, especially the iconic Kampot Pepper Crab, offering stunning sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Lunchtime

Fresh catches & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Kep Crab Market - Image 1

Kep Crab Market

Best Time

Lunchtime

Fresh catches & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant coastal market famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, especially the iconic Kampot Pepper Crab, offering stunning sunset views.

4.1
(5k reviews)

"The Kep Crab Market is a must-visit for its delicious seafood and breathtaking sunset views over the sea."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛵 Scooter Rental Recommended

Grab and PassApp are limited in Kep. Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring. :scooter:

🦀 Try the Kampot Pepper Crab

This is the signature dish! Freshly caught crab stir-fried with local Kampot pepper is a culinary highlight. :crab:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kampot Pepper Crab

Kampot Pepper Crab

Restaurants at the Crab Market

Savor the iconic Cambodian dish: stir-fried crab with fragrant Kampot pepper. A must-try for seafood lovers!

Sunset Dining

Sunset Dining

Seafood restaurants overlooking the sea

Enjoy a delicious meal as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Instagram
Local Market Buzz

Local Market Buzz

Kep Crab Market stalls

Experience the lively atmosphere of a local market where fresh catches are brought directly from the sea to your plate.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Fresh Seafood & Sunset Views

Kep Crab Market is renowned for its incredibly fresh seafood, especially the Kampot pepper crab. Many visitors recommend timing your visit for lunch or dinner to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunset views over the sea. Instagram

Getting Around Kep

While Grab and PassApp are popular in other Cambodian cities, they are not readily available in Kep. Renting a scooter is a convenient way to explore the Crab Market and surrounding areas. Reddit

Best Times

When
Lunchtime
Why
Fresh catches & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon/Evening
Why
Spectacular sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

강릉에서 가장 핫한 갓성비 대게 맛집 Steamed king crab #강릉중앙시장 #대게특별시 #대게맛집 #대게 #강릉핫플 #강릉맛집 #kingcrab #steamedcrabs #crabs #koreanseafood
@mayofood
304.7K likes • 5.6M views

🛵 Scooter Rental Recommended

Grab and PassApp are limited in Kep. Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring. Reddit :scooter:

🦀 Try the Kampot Pepper Crab

This is the signature dish! Freshly caught crab stir-fried with local Kampot pepper is a culinary highlight. Instagram :crab:

夢のタラバ蟹食べ放題コース ¥13,800(税込¥15,180)🦀 ※ソフトドリンク飲み放題付き ※小学生半額 幼児無料 ※席時間100分 lo,80分 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 🦀お店紹介🦀 かにざんまいは、蟹、お寿司の食べ放題で、カ二三昧の食体験を満喫できる、味と演出にこだわった食のテーマパーク! 身の詰まった大きな🦀蟹🦀を 驚きの価格で思う存分にお楽しみください! ~店舗情報~ 愛知県に7店舗、東京に3店舗、神奈川に1店舗、三重県に1店舗出店しております! ※店舗によって営業時間が異なるので、プロフィールリンクから各店舗チェックしてください。 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ #かに #蟹 #蟹食べ放題#かにざんまい#食べ放題
@kanizanmai_official
66.4K likes • 2.4M views
Keep watching to see the best sunset over the sea while having dinner in Kep 🤯 We visited Kep Crab Market and ended up in a seafood restaurant nearby with a beautiful sea view and timed it perfectly to watch the sunset too! 🌅 Don't skip this place if you're heading to Cambodia and love seafood 😋🇰🇭 #seafood #seafoodrestaurant #seaview #crabmarket #kepcrabmarket #kepcambodia #kep #kampotprovince ...
twobritsonthego
163 likes • 7.2K views

🌅 Aim for Sunset

The views are stunning! Enjoy dinner with a beautiful sea view as the sun sets. Instagram :sunrise:

💰 Negotiate Prices

As with many markets, prices can be negotiated, especially if buying multiple items. :moneywithwings:

🇰🇭 Cambodian Kampot Pepper Crab 🦀 at the📍Kep Crab Market on the coast of Cambodia! Out of everything I’ve eaten in Cambodia, this is possibly my favorite Khmer seafood dish *ever* and I promise that after you’ve had it too, you’ll never look at other seafood dishes the same! 😝 🦀Stir fried Kampot Pepper Crab ឆាក្តាមមេ្រចកំពត is famous for its deliciously sweet, savory and fragrantly peppery flav...
sorany_v
1.8K likes • 38.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛵 Scooter Rental Recommended

Grab and PassApp are limited in Kep. Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring. Reddit :scooter:

🦀 Try the Kampot Pepper Crab

This is the signature dish! Freshly caught crab stir-fried with local Kampot pepper is a culinary highlight. Instagram :crab:

🌅 Aim for Sunset

The views are stunning! Enjoy dinner with a beautiful sea view as the sun sets. Instagram :sunrise:

💰 Negotiate Prices

As with many markets, prices can be negotiated, especially if buying multiple items. :moneywithwings:

👃 Be Prepared for Fishy Smells

It's a working market, so expect some strong, fishy aromas. It's part of the authentic experience! :nose:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the incredibly fresh seafood, particularly the signature Kampot Pepper Crab, and the stunning sunset views. The lively market atmosphere and the 'sea to plate' experience are major draws. Some find the market a bit limited for extended stays, and the strong fishy smells are a common observation, though generally accepted as part of the authentic experience.

"There's not much there really... A wet market and a ton of restaurants... Good for a couple of hours day trip - go, have lunch, and head back. Easy ride on a scooter."

Joe Goozey

"If you’re looking fresh seafood for lunch or dinner, the Crab Market in Kep, Cambodia, is a great choice. Whenever I visit the beach and want seafood, this is my go-to spot. The selection is fresh, and the atmosphere is lively-definitely worth a visit!"

Sophat Chhay

"Do not missed this local market on your trip in Kep! It’s very interesting market full of local food discoveries. Beautiful for doing local pictures…
Crab here is famous, so the market is very well-known in Cambodia.
Defo worth the visit :)"

Adeline Bernard

What People Like

Fresh seafood
Kampot Pepper Crab
Sunset views

What People Dislike

Limited activities
Fishy smells

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kep Crab Market is located on the coast of Kep, Cambodia. If you're coming from Kampot, it's a relatively short journey. Many visitors rent a scooter for easy access, as ride-sharing apps like Grab and PassApp are not widely available in Kep. Reddit The market is easily identifiable by its numerous seafood restaurants and stalls. Instagram

Public transport options directly to the market can be limited. Renting a scooter or hiring a private taxi from nearby towns like Kampot is generally more convenient for reaching the Kep Crab Market. Reddit

Kep Crab Market is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Kampot, depending on your mode of transport and traffic conditions. Reddit

Yes, there is usually ample space for parking, especially if you arrive by scooter or car. The area around the market is designed to accommodate visitors. :parking:

For a day trip, renting a scooter from Kampot is a popular and cost-effective option. Alternatively, you can arrange a private taxi for a more comfortable journey. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Kep Crab Market itself. You can wander through the market and browse the stalls freely. You only pay for the food you purchase. :ticket:

The market is generally bustling from morning until late evening, with restaurants serving throughout the day and into the night. It's particularly lively during lunch and dinner hours. Instagram

For most restaurants, booking is not necessary, especially during off-peak hours. However, if you plan to visit during a busy weekend evening or want a specific table with a prime sunset view, it might be wise to call ahead. Instagram

Yes, some tour operators offer guided experiences that include visits to the Kep Crab Market, often combined with other local attractions. These tours can provide insights into Khmer culture and cuisine. Instagram

Absolutely! You can buy crabs directly from fishermen at the market. Many stalls allow you to select your own crab, which can then be cooked by on-site chefs. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The undisputed star is the Kampot Pepper Crab. This dish features fresh crab stir-fried with the aromatic and slightly spicy green Kampot pepper, a true Cambodian delicacy. Instagram+1

Besides crab, you can find a variety of fresh seafood including shrimp, squid, fish, and shellfish. These are often grilled, stir-fried, or prepared in curries. Instagram+1

Yes, this is a common practice! You can select live crabs from the market stalls and have them cooked to your preference by the attached restaurants or cooks. InstagramReddit

While the focus is heavily on seafood, some restaurants may offer basic vegetarian dishes like stir-fried vegetables or rice. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant. :leafy_green:

Prices can vary depending on the type and size of seafood, as well as the season. However, many visitors find the seafood to be reasonably priced, especially considering the freshness. Expect to pay around $5-15 USD for a crab dish, depending on size. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The market offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the vibrant stalls piled high with fresh seafood to the fishermen bringing in their catch. The sunset over the sea provides a dramatic backdrop for stunning shots. Instagram+1

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls. A smile and a gesture can go a long way. Many vendors are happy to be photographed, especially if you purchase something. :camerawithflash:

Late afternoon leading into sunset offers the best light for photography, with warm golden hues. Morning can also be interesting to capture the market's activity as it starts for the day. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to avoid any issues. :drone:

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A fast aperture lens can be helpful in lower light conditions during sunset. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for expansive sea views. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Kep Crab Market can be an exciting experience for families, offering a chance to see a working market and enjoy fresh seafood. Kids might be fascinated by the variety of sea creatures on display. Choosing a restaurant with outdoor seating can provide more space for children to move around. Consider visiting during lunchtime when the atmosphere is lively but perhaps less crowded than in the evening. Instagram

While the focus is seafood, some restaurants may offer simpler dishes like fried rice or noodles that appeal to younger palates. Be mindful of the strong fishy smells that are inherent to a market environment. If your children are adventurous eaters, they might enjoy trying a small portion of the famous Kampot Pepper Crab. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Kep Crab Market offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy fresh, delicious seafood at reasonable prices. Buying crabs directly from fishermen and having them cooked by on-site chefs can be more economical than dining at some of the more established restaurants. InstagramReddit

Renting a scooter is the most cost-effective way to reach the market and explore Kep. Pack some snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at inflated tourist prices. While the market is the main draw, exploring the surrounding areas on foot or by scooter can be done for free, offering scenic views and local insights. Reddit

💑 Couples

The Kep Crab Market offers a romantic setting, especially if you time your visit for sunset dinner. Enjoying freshly prepared seafood with a view of the ocean as the sun dips below the horizon creates a memorable experience. Instagram

Consider choosing a restaurant with a good vantage point for the sunset. The lively yet relaxed atmosphere of the market provides a unique backdrop for a casual and enjoyable meal together. It's a chance to savor local flavors and create lasting memories. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Star: Kampot Pepper Crab

The Kep Crab Market is synonymous with one dish: Kampot Pepper Crab. This culinary masterpiece features freshly caught crabs, often selected by diners themselves, stir-fried in a wok with generous amounts of fragrant, green Kampot pepper. The pepper, renowned for its unique aroma and subtle heat, perfectly complements the sweet, succulent crab meat. Many restaurants offer this dish, and the experience of watching it being prepared and then savoring it fresh is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram+1

Beyond the signature dish, the market offers a wide array of other fresh seafood. You can find grilled skewers of shrimp, squid, and fish, often seasoned with local spices. Some stalls also prepare crab curries or other seafood stews. The key is the "sea to plate" freshness, with fishermen bringing their daily catch directly to the market. Instagram+1

When dining, be prepared for the lively, open-air atmosphere. Grills are often fired up, and the aroma of cooking seafood fills the air. While the market can get busy, especially during peak meal times, the experience is considered authentic and highly rewarding for food enthusiasts. Reddit

Capturing the Essence: Photography at the Market

The Kep Crab Market is a photographer's delight, offering a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. The vibrant colors of the fresh seafood, the bustling activity of vendors and diners, and the picturesque coastal setting all contribute to compelling photographic opportunities. Instagram The sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand are particularly spectacular, providing a dramatic and colorful backdrop for your shots. Instagram

For the best light, aim for the golden hour – the period shortly before sunset. The warm, soft light can transform the market scene and the sea into something truly magical. Morning light can also be excellent for capturing the market's energy as it comes alive. Remember to be respectful when photographing people; a smile and a polite request often lead to the best interactions and images. Instagram

Consider bringing a versatile lens that can handle both wide-angle shots of the market and the coastline, as well as tighter shots of the seafood and people. A fast aperture lens can be beneficial for capturing the ambiance during the evening hours. Don't forget to capture the details – the texture of the crabs, the spices used, and the expressions of the people. Instagram

Navigating Kep: Transportation and Local Insights

Getting around Kep and to the Crab Market requires a bit of local knowledge. Unlike larger Cambodian cities, popular ride-sharing apps like Grab and PassApp have limited service in Kep. This means visitors often rely on renting a scooter for independent exploration. Scooters offer the freedom to visit the market at your own pace and explore other nearby attractions. Reddit

If you're not comfortable riding a scooter, hiring a private taxi or tuk-tuk for the day is another viable option. This can be arranged through your accommodation or local tour operators. For those arriving from Kampot, the journey is relatively short, making a day trip feasible. Reddit

It's also worth noting that while the market itself is a hub of activity, Kep as a town is generally more laid-back than its neighboring cities. This relaxed atmosphere is part of its charm, but it also means that transportation options are less abundant. Planning your transport in advance can ensure a smoother experience. Reddit

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