“An adventurous 80-meter swim through a dark cave tunnel to witness the magical “emerald green” water reflecting sunlight inside the cave.”
Ko Muk and Morakot Cave is the third largest island in Trang Province, located in Kantang District. The eastern side of the island is home to a traditional fishing community with local piers and various accommodation options. The western side, in contrast, features tall limestone cliffs — the location of the famous Emerald Cave.
Emerald Cave is considered the ultimate highlight of the Trang Sea and one of Thailand’s world-renowned “Unseen Thailand” attractions. To access the cave, long-tail boats anchor in front of the cave entrance, and visitors must swim through a dark tunnel for about 80 meters. The journey through the darkness is thrilling, and once you emerge inside, you’ll find a vertical opening to the sky and a pristine white-sand beach hidden within the cave chamber.
The name “Emerald Cave” comes from the natural phenomenon created when sunlight shines into the cave, illuminating the seawater in a stunning emerald-green hue.
How to Get There
- Tour Boats / Private Boat Charter: Most visitors join a One Day Trip or charter a private boat from Pak Meng Pier in Sikao District — the main gateway to the Trang Islands. Travel time from the pier to Koh Mook and Emerald Cave is approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour.
- Public Passenger Boats: Travelers can also take a public boat from Kuan Tung Ku Pier in Kantang District. This option is ideal for those staying overnight on Koh Mook.
Travel Tips
-
Access to Emerald Cave depends on tide conditions. Visitors often swim while holding onto a rope for safety, especially during high tide.
-
The best time to visit is during low tide, typically in the morning, when entering the cave is safest and easiest.
-
Bring a waterproof bag for phones and cameras since swimming is required.
-
Koh Mook is close to other popular islands, such as Koh Kradan and Koh Chueak, which are often included in the same One Day Trip package.
Entrance Fees:
There is no direct fee to enter the cave, but visitors must pay the entrance fee for Hat Chao Mai National Park (not included in tour packages)
- Thai Citizens: Adults 40 THB, Children 20 THB
- Foreigners: Adults 200 THB, Children 100 THB
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 07:00 – 17:00 (Actual cave entry times vary according to sea level and tide conditions.)