Emerald Pool and Hot Springs in Krabi and Railay Beach
Part of the Krabi and Railay Beach travel guide — see every topic in All Krabi and Railay Beach Guides.
Inland from the coast, Krabi has warm springs and clear pools in the forest. The Emerald Pool, called Sa Morakot in Thai, and the Hot Spring Waterfall are the two best-known sites. They are in Khlong Thom district, about one to one and a half hours by road from Ao Nang. Most people visit both on the same day, often on a tour. This guide explains each site and how to plan your visit.
The Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool is inside Khao Pra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected lowland forest. From the car park, a boardwalk and forest path lead to the pool, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. The pool is fed by warm underground springs, and the water is clear and green. You can swim here, and the water is warm and pleasant. Changing rooms are near the pool. The site gets very busy from late morning when tour vans arrive. Come early, when it opens, for a calm swim.
The Blue Pool and the forest
A little further along the trail is the Blue Pool, a still pool with bright blue water. Swimming is not allowed there. The colour is strongest on sunny days. Parts of the trail may close at certain times of the year to protect wildlife. The forest around the pools is home to many birds, including rare species that birdwatchers travel far to see. Walk slowly and quietly, especially early in the morning, and you may hear or see birds that tour groups miss.
The Hot Spring Waterfall
Not far from the Emerald Pool is the Hot Spring Waterfall. Here, hot water from the ground flows over smooth rock steps into small pools. A cool stream runs nearby. You can sit in the warm pools and then cool off in the stream. It feels like a natural spa. The water can be very hot in some places, so test it with your hand first. Do not stay too long in the hottest pools, especially in the midday heat. There are changing areas and simple food stalls.
Planning the day
There is no regular public transport to these sites. Most visitors join a tour from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, or rent a car or scooter. Tours often combine the Emerald Pool, the Hot Spring Waterfall and Tiger Cave in one day. Each site charges its own entry fee, and fees for foreign visitors are higher than for Thai visitors. Both sites are open in daytime only. Check the hours at the gate. Bring a swimsuit, a towel and water. Wear shoes that can get wet, and keep your phone in a dry bag.
Emerald Pool and Hot Springs at a glance
| Getting there | About 1 to 1.5 hours by road from Ao Nang; tour, rented car or scooter |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daytime only; check opening times at each gate |
| Cost | Separate entry fee at each site; foreign visitors pay more |
| Best time | Early morning, before the tour vans; dry season for easier roads |
| Bring | Swimsuit, towel, water shoes, a dry bag and cash |