Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot)

The Basics

The tricky-to-access Emerald Cave is well worth the adventure. To reach the beautiful lagoon, you must join a guided tour that leads you on a swim through a 260-foot (80-meter) lit up by provided headlamps. Your destination is a large hall illuminated by sunlight shining through a small opening, and a sandbar surrounded by trees.

Most tours to Morakot Cave are included in the 4-island tour from Koh Lanta to Koh Chuak, Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai. These tours allow time for visitors to spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in and around the four islands, discovering the underwater marine life and admiring the picturesque island scenery.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Emerald Cave is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

• Be sure to bring sunscreen, preferably one that is coral-reef friendly, and a towel.

• Do not attempt to visit the cave without a knowledgeable guide to direct you through the tunnel.

• Most tours offer snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, and light refreshments.

• Lifejackets are provided but be prepared—and fit enough—for a lengthy swim to access the cave.

How to Get There

The Emerald Cave is located on the western coast of Koh Muk, in the Trang province. You can access the cave only via one of the many tours offered on the Trang islands, and then by swimming through the narrow tunnel.

When to Get There

You can access the cave only during low tide, generally between 10am and 2pm, as the entrance passage is small and low. The best time to visit Koh Muk, and Thailand is general, is during the dry season (November to April).

Koh Muk

Branch out beyond the Emerald Cave and spend more time on Koh Muk. A 45-minute ferry ride from Khuan Tuang Ku Pier on the mainland, the small island has a handful of budget and mid-range accommodations (that generally operate only during the high season). Koh Muk’s beautiful beaches and great snorkeling spots offer spectacular ways to enjoy a relaxing holiday.

How do I get to the Emerald Cave in Thailand?

The Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot) is located on the western coast of the small Thai island of Koh Muk, in the country’s deep south. Getting into the cave requires swimming or paddling through a long, pitch-black tunnel. The best way to access the cave is by an organized tour.

How long is the Emerald Cave?

To reach the heart of the Emerald Cave, you need to navigate a 262-foot (80-meter) tunnel that’s pitch-black. A guide rope is provided, and many tours include headlamps for guidance. What’s known as the Emerald Cave is at the end: a bright, verdant swimming hole with lush scenery.

Can you swim in the Emerald Cave?

Yes—swimming in the Emerald Cave is pretty much the only way to get there. While it may be possible to navigate the tunnel leading into the cave by kayak when the water level is low, most swim into the lagoon and relax on its sandy beaches.

How deep is the water in the Emerald Cave?

The water levels in the Emerald Cave—and the tunnel required to reach it—vary depending on the time of day you plan to visit. The maximum depth in the cavern itself is around 39 feet (12 meters). Most tours also provide lifejackets to make navigating the water easy and safe.

What is the best time of day to see the Emerald Cave?

If you want to see the Emerald Cave at its most beautiful—with its waters all aglow and green, as its name suggests—primetime is between 10am and 2pm. However, the landmark is often very crowded with tourist groups. For a calmer experience, aim for early morning or late afternoon.

How did the Emerald Cave get its name?

It’s little wonder how the Emerald Cave earned its name: The hidden lagoon is surrounded by high rock walls covered in lush plants. When the sun shines in, the cavern lights up in vivid green hues. Aim to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to experience the phenomenon.