The Emerald Pool (sometimes known as the Crystal Pool or Crystal Pond) is part of the Khao Phra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary in Khlong Thom, located about an hour’s drive from Krabi Town. Travelers generally stop here for a swim and a selfie as part of a tour of mainland Krabi attractions; tours generally include the Tiger Cave Temple and nearby hot springs.
This is a natural pool with no changing rooms. Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a towel.
Parents should ensure that children visit the bathrooms before swimming.
Shops, eateries, and bathrooms are all located at the park office, which is over half a mile (800 meters) from the pool itself.
No swimming is allowed at the Blue Pool, which is located past the Emerald Pool.
The walkways are manageable with a wheelchair, but there is no disabled access to the pool.
The Emerald Pool is in the Khlong Thom area, about a 47-mile (75-kilometer) drive southeast of Krabi town, and around 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Wareerak Hot Spring Retreat. There is no public transportation to the area, and the highway is difficult to navigate, so most travelers visit on an organized tour.
The Emerald Pool is open from quite early in the morning until late afternoon. It can get crowded with both locals and tourists on weekends and public holidays, so try to arrive early to beat the rush—especially if you aim to take photos. During the rainy season (roughly May–October), the water can be murky.
Most travelers pair a dip at the Emerald Pool with a trip to one of the many nearby hot springs. One popular (and sometimes very crowded) option is Namtok Ron, a hot-spring waterfall with warm water that tumbles over a series of short ledges. Many travelers prefer to escape the crowds at privately-operated hot springs, such as Wareerak Hot Spring Retreat or Nattha Waree Hot Spring Resort and Spa.