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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

South Coast, Cambodia

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels

  • Hostels/Budget Guesthouses

    Simple rooms, sometimes with shared bathrooms. For backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Basic amenities and a communal atmosphere.

  • Mid-range Guesthouses/Bungalows

    Comfortable rooms, often with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Many are set in lush gardens; some include a small pool. Good value for money is present.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Stylish, often smaller hotels. Personalized service and unique design elements are here. A more intimate and upscale experience is found here.

  • Luxury Resorts

    Upscale properties. Extensive amenities, including large pools, spas, and sea views. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed. For travelers seeking comfort and indulgence.

Unique local accommodation types

  • Traditional/Colonial Styles

    Many guesthouses feature traditional Khmer architecture. Others are styled with French colonial influences. A unique local charm is present.

  • Vacation rentals and apartment options

    Some private villas and bungalows are rent-ready. These suit longer stays or groups. More space and privacy is available than traditional hotel rooms. Find them on online platforms like Vrbo.

  • Homestay and community-based tourism opportunities

    Smaller guesthouses might have a personal, homestay-like experience. This allows a chance to connect with local families. Supporting local, family-run guesthouses directly contributes to the community. Consider TrustedHousesitters for some options.

  • Camping and outdoor accommodation

    Formal camping options are limited. Some guesthouses might allow pitching tents in their gardens. Camping on Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) with local permission is possible. This creates a rustic outdoor experience.

Neighborhood Guide

Kep is relatively small. It divides into a few areas, each with its own character.

Crab Market Area

Pros
  • In the middle of the action
Cons
  • Can be noisy
  • Fewer high-end accommodations available

Kep Beach/Promenade Area

Pros
  • Sea views are present
  • Good for walking
  • Good mix of restaurants
  • A relaxed beachside feel
Cons
  • Can be busy during peak times
  • Beach quality for swimming is limited here, better at Koh Tonsay

Kep National Park Foothills

Pros
  • Peaceful, green surroundings
  • Good for nature lovers
  • Accommodations often include pools
Cons
  • Transport is required to get to the market or beach areas

Proximity to attractions and transportation hubs

Crab Market:

Walking distance to the market and pier. Tuk-tuks are readily available.

Kep Beach:

Walking distance to the beach and promenade. Tuk-tuks are available.

Booking Strategies

For high season, book one to three months in advance. For low season, a few weeks or days before is often fine.

Trusted booking platforms and local reservation systems

  • Booking.com and Agoda are widely used and reliable in Cambodia. They have a good range of options.
  • IHG Hotels for premium stays.
  • Hostelworld is for budget-focused stays.
  • Direct booking through guesthouse and resort websites is also an option.

Deposit and cancellation policies

  • Policies vary by property and booking platform. Always check before confirming.
  • Most hotels allow free cancellation up to a certain point before your stay.
  • For smaller guesthouses, especially in the low season, a slight negotiation for walk-in rates is possible.

Seasonal price fluctuations

High Season (November - February):
  • Prices are highest.
  • Especially high around Christmas, New Year, and Khmer New Year (April).
  • Adjust your budget accordingly.
Wet Season (June - October):
  • Prices drop significantly.

Safety considerations by area

General Safety

All areas of Kep are generally safe.

Petty Crime

Standard precautions for petty crime apply, especially in crowded market areas. Keep an eye on your belongings.

Accommodation Recommendations

This table helps you compare different accommodation types in Kep.

Top picks for different budget levels

Budget

Many guesthouses near the Crab Market or National Park entrance.

  • Basic, clean rooms
  • Good value is present
Mid-range

Guesthouses with pools set in gardens.

  • Often a short tuk-tuk ride from main areas

Family-friendly options

Resorts and Guesthouses

Many mid-range and luxury resorts have family rooms, bungalows, and swimming pools.

  • Look for properties with spacious grounds.
  • Children can play in these spaces.

Solo traveler recommendations

  • Budget Guesthouses and Hostels

    Opportunities to meet other travelers are present.

  • Staying near the Crab Market

    Easy access to food and activities is available here.

Long-stay accommodations

  • Monthly Rates

    Contact guesthouses directly for monthly rates if a long stay is planned.

  • Private Rentals

    Look for private bungalow or villa rentals.

  • Kampot for Longer Stays

    Many expats select Kampot for longer stays due to its larger expat community and developed infrastructure, but Kep presents more tranquility.

Properties with exceptional cultural or historical significance

Colonial Villas

Some guesthouses are renovated colonial villas.

  • Find properties that highlight their historical context.

Image Gallery for Accommodation

Charming Kep Guesthouse

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Luxury Resort Pool

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Seaside Bungalow

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