Koh Thonsáy

Koh Thonsáy is a Cambodian island located off the south western coast of Cambodia. "Koh Thonsáy" means Rabbit Island.

Koh Tonsay is located 4.6km south of Kep reached by boat from Kep port (approx 20 minutes). Tourists are drawn to the beautiful white sand beach. The sea here is shallow and has a long slope, making Koh Thonsay excellent for swimming. At the sea bottom area a variety of corals, sea animals and plants which attract researchers and ecologists.

The name Koh Tonsáy is derived from the word Rumsay. While trying to avoid the commander’s troops, Prince Sakor Reach grew hopeless because his own troops began to tire. He led his remaining troops across the sea to an island in front of Kep city, where the troops spread out. Accordingly, the island was called Koh Rumsay, the Koh Ormsay or Koh Ornsay, and the Koh Thonsay, as it is known today.

Koh Thonsay is 2 square Kilometers. During then-Prince Norodom Sihanouk’s Sangku Reastr Niyum regime, it was used as a place to rehabilitate criminals, who were also used to defend the island. Horse cart paths and wooden, thatch roofed motels were also constructed during this time. Most of this infrastructure has been destroyed by weather and decades of war.

Today there are five new bamboo guest houses on the main beach, visited by Cambodian and foreign tourists. Conditions are basic, with squat toilets, outside showers and electricity from 6pm to 9pm each day.

In addition a number of fishermen and their families live on the island, occupying other beaches around the shoreline.