Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Surrounded by the sounds of birds and hidden within the rainforest, the brilliant Emerald Pool in Krabi offers a completely different experience from the salty beaches of Ao Nang. Follow a series of well-maintained boardwalks on a lovely walk that winds through the forest until you get to the Emerald Pool. The vibrant colors of the pool shift throughout the day, and the fresh, mineral-rich water offers the perfect place to cool off.
We visited the Emerald Pool on our own during our visit in early 2020 during our 2-week visit to Thailand. We almost skipped the Emerald Pool in Krabi but loved getting away from the beaches for a day into a more natural seetting.
Below you will see exactly what to expect when visiting the Emerald Pool Krabi including how to get there, what facilities you’ll find and a first hand guide to walking the trails.
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Is the Emerald Pool in Krabi Worth a Visit?
If you only have a few days in Krabi, the Emerald Pool might not make it to the top of the list with all the amazing islands and beaches to visit. If you have more than a few days I would definitely add this to your list.
The swimming was great and we loved the paths through the water and forest. We also found far fewer people visiting here and enjoyed the feeling of being off the beaten path.
Overview of the Krabi Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool (also sometimes called Emerald Pond, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Pool, or Emerald Lagoon) is located in Thung Teao Forest National Park and is part of Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary in Krabi province. The forest is a habitat for birds and other animals and even without the centerpiece of the crystal blue waters, the path through the forest is truly lovely.
It’s the limestone and minerals that truly make this place special as the clear spring water seems to change color as you watch. Swimming in the freshwater was so refreshing after spending a week in the salty Andaman Sea.
How to Get to the Emerald Pool, Krabi
If you have a car or motorbike, it is an easy drive to the Emerald Pool, and you will find a large parking lot when you arrive. From Krabi, take highway 4 to Klong Thom and turn onto 4038. From here you can follow signs for the Emerald Pool and hot springs for a further 15 minutes. Another option is to book a taxi. This will cost about 1,800 baht.
From the parking lot, you will see clear signage leading to the start of the walk.
It is also possible to book a tour to the Emerald Pool in Krabi and many of these also include a visit to other sites such as the Tiger Cave Temple. You can see a few options of some of the tours offered in the links below:
Guide to Visiting the Emerald Pool and Blue Lagoon in Krabi
Here is some quick general information about visiting the Emerald Pool in Krabi:
- You can choose a few ways to walk to the Emerald Spring. We recommend taking the longer 1.8 km trail as it is much more scenic.
- The Emerald Pool is usually open 8:00-1700 and the Blue Pool opens a bit later.
- There is a small entrance fee of 200 baht/adult and 100 baht/child (as of 2020)
- You can visit the Emerald Pool year-round, but the Blue Pool is closed during part of the year.
Although we did not experience crowds during our visit, it does get busy in the afternoons at times. We visited in the morning and the parking lot was almost empty when we arrived.
For general information you can see updates on the Tourism Board of Thailand.
Start your visit by following the well-marked signs to the Emerald Pool. The trail is easy to follow and well-marked and parts of the trail follow along with a series of boardwalks. The path is about 1.5 km and travels through the lush forest and past several pools and water features.
You can’t swim in there, but eventually, you will get to the Emerald Pool. Here you will find signs and steps down into the water.
On a hot, humid day, the pool is incredibly refreshing. Note that there is nowhere to change, so make sure you wear your bathing suit under your clothes and pack a towel. The colors of the water and trees make an amazing spot for photography, so make sure to bring along your phone or camera.
Blue Pool
Another highlight is visiting the Blue Pool. Unlike the Emerald Pool, you can’t swim in the Blue Pool. Simply look for the trail signs as you walk. This pool is gorgeous and it is supplied by a hot spring.
Where to Stay to Visit the Emerald Pool in Krabi
The Emerald Pool in Krabi is a bit off the beaten path, so you likely want to stay in Krabi or Ao Nang if you want to visit. It’s about an hour-long drive from these locations and makes a great destination if you are looking for a break from the beaches for a day. You can find a wide range of accommodations in both these towns from luxury to budget options.
You can see more about our travels on our Instagram!
Looking for more? Check out: 15 Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand
Common Questions About the Emerald Lagoon
Is swimming allowed in the Emerald Pool?
Yes, swimming is allowed in the Emerald Pool. The water in the pool is usually warm and inviting, providing a refreshing experience for visitors. However, it’s important to note that there might be specific areas designated for swimming, and it’s advisable to follow any safety guidelines or instructions provided by the park authorities.
Are there any facilities or amenities available near the Emerald Pool?
Yes, there are facilities available near the Emerald Pool for visitors’ convenience. The park offers restrooms, changing rooms, and shower facilities where you can freshen up after swimming. Additionally, there are small vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs in the vicinity.
Are there any hiking trails or nature walks near the Emerald Pool?
Yes, there are hiking trails and nature walks available in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park surrounding the Emerald Pool. The park features a well-maintained nature trail called the Crystal Pool Nature Trail, which takes you through lush rainforest, past streams, and eventually leads to the stunning Crystal Pool. It’s a great opportunity to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
