The Emerald Pool, or Sa Morakot in Thai, is a natural pool with turquoise waters nestled in the Khao Nor Chuchi forest, roughly 60 km east of the city of Krabi. The site is part of a complex of pools fed by the same underground spring and represents one of the most visited nature excursions in the province.

Why Visit Emerald Pool

The appeal of the place lies in a combination of several elements: crystal-clear water with blue-green reflections, a warm temperature year-round (around 28-30°C), and access on foot through a protected humid tropical forest. Unlike the crowded beaches along the coast, the site offers a dense forest setting, populated with endemic birds and tropical vegetation.

Swimming is generally permitted in the Emerald Pool itself, subject to hydrological conditions (the pool may be temporarily closed depending on water level and quality). The waters are shallow, making the site accessible to families.

What to See and Do

The complex comprises several natural pools connected by streams that wind through the forest:

• Sa Morakot (Emerald Pool): the main pool, open for swimming.

• Glass Pool: a pool with crystal-clear reflections, accessible on foot from the main pool.

• Blue Pool (Sa Nam Phut): off-limits for swimming to preserve its fragile ecosystem, but viewable from an observation platform.

Activities on site consist of forest walks, wildlife watching, and swimming in the main pool. To preserve the cleanliness of the site, eating around the pools is prohibited; designated areas are provided at the entrance.

Practical Information

• Address: Khlong Thom Nuea, Khlong Thom District, Krabi 81120, Thailand.

• Hours: daytime opening, generally morning through mid-afternoon. Verify current hours before you go, as they may vary by season.

• Admission: paid entry, moderate fee for foreign visitors (reduced rates for children and Thai residents).

• Equipment: closed hiking shoes, light clothing, swimsuit and towel, mosquito repellent (the jungle is humid), bottled water.

When to Visit

Krabi's climate is tropical, with stable temperatures between 28 and 30°C year-round. The pool water remains warm at all times. The rainy season, marked by heavy precipitation, runs from August to October: trails can be muddy and the pool sometimes closed for safety or water clarity reasons.

The most favorable period extends from December to April, during the dry season. To avoid crowds, plan a morning visit: from noon onwards, the site receives groups of students and local visitors, particularly on weekends.

How to Get There

Emerald Pool is located roughly 1 to 1.5 hours' drive from central Krabi.

• By car or motorbike: the most practical option. Parking is available at the site entrance. You manage your excursion duration freely.

• By public bus: a line serves the main road and stops about 1.4 km from the entrance. The access trail crosses the jungle.

• By organized tour: numerous agencies in Krabi and Ao Nang offer day trips combining the pool, hot springs, and a nearby temple.

Once at the reception area, a wooden walkway and marked trail lead through the forest and streams to the main pool, roughly 800 m of walking.

Nearby Attractions

• Khao Pra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary: the reserve encompassing the pool complex, home to the rare endemic Gurney's pitta.

• Nam Tok Ron Hot Springs: natural hot water pools about twenty minutes' drive away, easily combinable for the same day.

• Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple): perched Buddhist temple, accessible by 1,237 steps, located in the southern part of the province.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Trip

Emerald Pool fits naturally into an itinerary in southern Thailand, between Andaman beaches, national parks, and temples. To discover other natural treasures in the country, check out our guides on Bua Tong Falls or Doi Phu Kha National Park.