Kep Crab Market
A vibrant coastal market famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, especially the iconic Kampot Pepper Crab, offering stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh catches & lively atmosphere
Kep Crab Market
Best Time
Fresh catches & lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant coastal market famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, especially the iconic Kampot Pepper Crab, offering stunning sunset views.
"The Kep Crab Market is a must-visit for its delicious seafood and breathtaking sunset views over the sea."
🛵 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Seafood restaurants overlooking the sea
Enjoy a delicious meal as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fresh Seafood & Sunset Views
Getting Around Kep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛵 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:
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The views are stunning! Enjoy dinner with a beautiful sea view as the sun sets. :sunrise:
💰 Negotiate Prices
As with many markets, prices can be negotiated, especially if buying multiple items. :moneywithwings:
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. :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:
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The views are stunning! Enjoy dinner with a beautiful sea view as the sun sets. :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
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
What People Dislike
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. The market is easily identifiable by its numerous seafood restaurants and stalls.
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.
Kep Crab Market is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Kampot, depending on your mode of transport and traffic conditions.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
💑 Couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Star: Kampot Pepper Crab
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.
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.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at the Market
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.
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.
Navigating Kep: Transportation and Local Insights
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.
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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit