Sa Kaeo
Tucked within a nature reserve in the Mueang Krabi District, Sa Kaeo is a lesser-known natural pool fed by water seeping through deep caves and surrounding cliffs. While the Emerald Pool draws the larger crowds, Sa Kaeo offers a quieter, more intimate alternative — a small, strikingly blue pool set entirely in raw, undeveloped nature. Reviewers note it reaches depths of around 100 metres, and some visit specifically to dive, adding an adventurous dimension beyond casual swimming. The atmosphere here is decidedly local and unhurried. The pool is compact and the setting is pure nature, which means visitors looking for manicured facilities or easy swimming conditions may prefer nearby alternatives. Those who do make the trip, however, tend to find the solitude and natural surroundings more than worthwhile. The cave formations visible around the pool add a sense of geological curiosity to the visit. Good to know: Entry to the nature reserve costs 100 baht per person. The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so an early morning visit is advisable to secure a quieter experience and avoid the heat of the day. The pool is small, so arriving early also helps before any day-trippers arrive. Wear water shoes if possible, as the terrain is natural and uneven. Sa Kaeo pairs well with other nature spots in the East Krabi area and makes a worthwhile half-day excursion for travellers seeking something off the well-worn tourist trail.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Sa Kaeo, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
An amazingly beautiful blue pool, that's much less famous than the emerald & blue pools, but just as worth it (and maybe even better)! Entrance fee to the nature reserve is 100 baht per person, and it includes the visit in the blue pool & the cave behind it (just about 200 meters distance). What makes this pool much better than the emerald pool in my opinion is that you can actually enter it (in the emerald pool you can't enter, just watch it from the outside). The water were clean and very refreshing. Another advantage is than since it's less commonly known, there are much less people visiting it, meaning you can enjoy the privacy of being alone, and along with the quiet is an absolutely heavenly experience. Before dipping into the pool, we visited the cave behind it which is very beautiful, with some Thai holy symbols & small statues. To conclude, if you're debating regarding which pool to visit during your stay in Krabi area, I think this beautiful pool wins the emerald pool any day.
It’s one of the must-visit spots in East Krabi, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. You can explore small caves that spark your curiosity and give you a glimpse into nature’s hidden beauty. One of the main highlights is the stunning 200 meter deep natural pond with crystal clear blue water . perfect for a refreshing swim. There are also separate ponds where you can feed the fish, making it a peaceful and enjoyable experience for nature lovers. All of this can be enjoyed with just a 100 Baht entry ticket, which makes it a great value for money. Whether you're looking for a bit of adventure, some quiet time with nature, or just something different to do . this place offers a memorable experience worth every moment.
A local pool. So much more inviting than touristic ones. Very small and untraveled by many. Water are cold. The pool is a part of deep caves filled with water seeping from mountain/cliffs around. The color is due to minerals and is hypnotizing. A few steps away there is a cave, worth the tour. 10 min walk and the cave is short.
Location Info
5R94+GXP, Khao Thong, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental
Where to stay near Sa Kaeo
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Also Popular in Krabi
Ko Lanta
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Ko Phi Phi Don
The largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, balancing vibrant beach life with dramatic natural scenery.
Emerald Pool
A mineral-rich natural swimming pool deep in Krabi's rainforest, famous for its striking emerald-green water.
Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Beloved budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang serving consistent classics daily from 11am to 10:30pm.
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Wat Phra Kaew
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Doi Suthep Temple
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The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental
Where to stay near Sa Kaeo
Find hotels in Krabi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.