The Best Koh Tao Viewpoints
Koh Tao viewpoints are nature’s answer to those fancy hotels with pillow menus. Just like choosing between a soft pillow and a brick with a pillowcase, the viewpoints in Koh Tao come in all categories: adventurous hikes, iconic and easy to reach must-visit sights, and cliffs with piña coladas on standby. Of course, we will not let down those who prefer to hike only with their sight – we have also included a few incredible hotels where your suite window becomes the best viewpoint in Koh Tao.
In this guide, we have gathered the absolute best Koh Tao viewpoints, along with tips to make exploring the island a breeze – or as much of a breeze as Koh Tao’s tropical weather allows. Put on those hiking shoes, and let’s get on our way!
Our Favorite Koh Tao Viewpoints
There are over 15 viewpoints in Koh Tao – ranging from official, well maintained trails to the backyards of friendly local families, and hidden gems that only the most adventurous dare to reach. With that in mind, we have selected our favorite Koh Tao viewpoints based on a combination of accessibility and the uniqueness of the view from the top.
Here are some pointers to help you visit two stunning Koh Tao viewpoints, starting with their whereabouts on the island:
John Suwan Viewpoint
The John Suwan Viewpoint is regarded by many as the best viewpoint in Koh Tao, offering a unique perspective of the island. Located at the southern tip of Koh Tao, it provides a perfect panoramic view of Shark Bay and Chalok Baan Kao Bay, divided by a ridge covered in palm trees.
John Suwan Viewpoint Location
The hike to the John Suwan Viewpoint begins within the premises of Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort*, just a 10-minute drive from Sairee Beach. From the main gate, follow the signs to the viewpoint, which will be uphill to your left.
Entrance fee
Compared to most Koh Tao viewpoints, and considering this one is inside a resort’s property, this visit is a bargain. The John Suwan Viewpoint has an entrance fee of 50 baht (1,40€) per person, which also includes access to Taa Toh Lagoon Beach and Freedom Beach. The price even covers the use of a sunbed (if available) and toilet facilities. Trust us, after the hike, all you will want to do is to jump into the water.
Your ticket is valid for the whole day, so you are free to leave the resort and return for a swim later on. However, remember to get your ticket stamped to avoid paying twice.
The hike
Hiking up to the John Suwan viewpoint takes around 20 minutes. The path can be a bit steep at times, with ropes to help you climb up the bigger boulders. While some people are able to do this hike in flip flops, we recommend wearing trainers for extra grip. Though it is not particularly difficult, it is not one of the best viewpoints in Koh Tao to visit if you have reduced mobility – expect some climbing and squeezing between rocks.
Visit the John Suwan viewpoint early in the morning. Not only will you avoid buckets of sweat dripping down your body, but you will also beat the crowds. The viewpoint is perched on top of a couple of giant boulders, with space for about 10 to 15 people. The later in the day you go, the crowdier it gets. This can not only make the experience less enjoyable but also a bit dangerous as people squeeze in to fit.
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
Call us irreverent, but this viewpoint is actually not on Koh Tao but on a neighbouring island called Koh Nang Yuan. Before you go all Victorian drama on us screaming “Oh, the deception and deceit!”, we must say this view is too iconic to leave out of this list. And for what it’s worth, people visit it during their stay in Koh Tao.
Koh Nang Yuan is an amazing day trip from Koh Tao – not only because it is home to the most popular and photographed viewpoint in the region, where you can see its three small islands connected by a beautiful sandbank, but also because of its crystal-clear water and amazing snorkeling.
Location
Located near the northwest coast of Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is just 15 minutes away by boat from Sairee Beach. You can either join a tour* that arranges all the logistics for you or drive to the beach and hop on a taxi boat. The service starts around 9:15am and costs around 300 baht (8,40€) per person for a round trip on a long tail boat, which is the most affordable option.
Be sure to agree on a pick-up time when being dropped off at the island.
Koh Nang Yuan is, in fact, a private island with only one resort: Nangyuan Island Dive Resort*. To ensure privacy for its guests, the island opens to outside visitors only from 9.30am to 5pm. Staying overnight is the best way to truly enjoy the island.
In all honesty, the only downside of this island is that the crowds can be overwhelming, depending on when you visit. To have the best experience, try to arrive first thing in the morning. If you are not staying overnight, booking a private tour* is the best way to step onto the island as soon as it opens and leave for other spots as it begins to get crowded.
Entrance fee
Koh Nang Yuan has a 250 baht (7€) entrance fee for foreigners, which is included in the price of the resort stay and some tour packages. The island has one restaurant and one beach bar, but the menu is quite limited, and the prices are above average compared to regular restaurants in Koh Tao. You can also rent sunbeds for 200 baht (5,60€).
Don’t spend money stocking up on snacks at convenience stores to take to Koh Nang Yuan. Single use plastic is not allowed on the island, and your bags will be checked upon arrival. Make sure to bring water in a reusable bottle.
The hike
The short hike up to the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint is fairly easy and takes only about 15 minutes from the pier. Most of the path consists of concrete steps and winds through shaded jungle.
During peak hours, people queue all the way to the viewpoint. The path is narrow, and the heat and humidity can be intense. Be sure to bring water, mosquito repellent, and sunscreen.
Koh Tao Viewpoints Worth Exploring
The top things to do in Koh Tao might be mostly underwater, but going up in altitude won’t disappoint either. Many people with thigh itineraries might only be able to squeeze in a visit to John Suwan Viewpoint. However, there is quite a wide selection of Koh Tao viewpoints worth exploring:
West Coast Viewpoint
Perfect sunset location – two amazing Koh Tao viewpoints in one go.
Nestled in the heart of the island, West Coast is one of the best viewpoints in Koh Tao to visit at sunset. A short 500-meter trail with a gentle incline through the jungle leads you to a striking natural doorway formed by two massive leaning boulders. Beyond this, you will find a spacious flat rock where you can relax and enjoy the unobstructed views of the island’s western coastline and the Gulf of Thailand.
West Coast Viewpoint has an entrance fee of 100 baht (2,80€), as the trail to reach it is the property of the Two View Restaurant. However, the fee includes a beverage and access to the nearby Tanote Peak, in case you want to visit two Koh Tao viewpoints in one go.
Tanote Peak is one of the highest viewpoints in Koh Tao, where, on a clear day, you can see Koh Phangan and Koh Samui in the distance. The short and fairly easy hike makes it perfect to visit first (around golden hour) and then head to West Coast Viewpoint for sunset.
Piera Point
Best viewpoint in Koh Tao for travelers looking for a hidden gem.
Can you keep a secret? There are still free viewpoints in Koh Tao, and Piera Point might just be the nicest one. Have a unique view of Aow Leuk Beach among stunning greenery, in a peaceful surrounding – we were absolutely alone when we visited.
If you are driving, park your scooter next to the wind generator (don’t worry, you will see it) and walk the remaining 2 minutes. You will see two slightly overgrown paths – take the one on the right. Keep going until you spot a big boulder overlooking Aow Leuk Beach. You have reached Piera Point.
For a smoother ride, go via Sai Daeng Beach, where the road is paved all the way to the wind generator.
Summit Viewpoint
Highest viewpoint in Koh Tao.
With sweeping views of the west coast, stretching from Sairee Beach to Jansom Bay, the Summit Viewpoint holds the title of the highest viewpoint in Koh Tao. However, claiming this view requires determination. The viewpoint is accessed via a steep and challenging road, where a 125cc scooter will at times struggle to carry two people. We strongly recommend avoiding this viewpoint on rainy days, as the road can be quite slippery and dangerous.
Google Maps will leave you stranded at a certain point along the route. From Sairee Beach, follow the road towards Mango Bay, and turn left at the very top of the hill when you spot the "Jim View Bar" sign. Play it safe, park at the bar and hike the rest of the way.
The Summit Viewpoint has a 100 baht (2,80€) entrance fee, which includes one drink. There is a tiny rustic shed that operates as a bar at the viewpoint, with a wooden platform, floor cushions, and a boulder perfect for photos. Alternatively, you can park and relax without lifting a finger by staying at Jim View Bar. The view is nearly identical, the bar is simple but spacious, and the staff is friendly. You won’t miss much if you choose to stay there instead.
Top Point Viewpoint
Best viewpoint in Koh Tao from which to see Koh Nang Yuan.
Top Point Viewpoint was a delightful surprise, and we had it all to ourselves. It is located on the northwest side of the island, far from the more popular Koh Tao viewpoints, and the path to get here is easy to miss. From the top of its huge boulder, you get stunning panoramic views of Koh Nang Yuan and Sairee Beach.
Like most viewpoints in Koh Tao, there is an entrance fee of 100 baht (2,80€), which includes a drink.
Google Maps will take you down the road to Dusit Buncha Resort and ask you to figure it out from there. You actually want to stop your scooter earlier and turn right [here] – you will see the concrete road that leads to Top Point Viewpoint. We strongly recommend parking at the bottom of the road and hiking up, which will take you around 25 minutes.
The road is extremely steep and challenging, getting worse the closer you get to the viewpoint. We wouldn’t recommend you even attempting to drive up unless you are highly skilled at riding a motorbike – and even then, proceed with caution.
Adventurers who haven’t had enough hiking for the day can continue up the same steep road to find some of the most remote Koh Tao viewpoints, such as Grape Viewpoint and Grandfather Rock Lagoon Viewpoint.
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint
The most easily accessible viewpoint in Koh Tao (and with the most photo opps).
This is one of the original Koh Tao viewpoints, overlooking the east side of the island and offering a great view of Tanote Bay. While it is neither the highest nor the best viewpoint in Koh Tao (in our opinion), its easy access makes it a no-brainer to stop at on your way to Tanote Bay for a smoothie with a view.
Visiting this viewpoint requires zero effort – you literally park in front of the family-run cafe that owns the land. We went straight to the netted beds and bean bags (which we shared with a friendly orange cat), but you can also take advantage of the many photo opportunities set up in the spacious garden.
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint charges a 20 baht (0,60€) entrance fee, which only applies to those who don't make a purchase at the cafe.
Bar Viewpoints in Koh Tao
Most Koh Tao viewpoints that charge an entrance fee add a “free” beverage to the mix so it sounds like a better deal. However, if you are looking for a viewpoint that doubles as one of the best sunset spots in Koh Tao – without the climbing, sweating, and offering a wider menu than just canned Chang and Coca-Cola – these might be exactly what you are looking for:
Secret Bar
Our favorite viewpoint bar in Koh Tao – a cozy wooden platform on top of boulders, with bean bags and a laid-back vibe. The menu offers a great selection of cocktails, beers, non-alcoholic beverages, and tasty bites. While service can get a bit messy when it's crowded, everything eventually finds its way to the right people. Plus, there is no minimum consumption required.
The road to the bar is a bit steep, but manageable even with two people on a scooter. Arrive early to secure a great spot for sunset.
High the Moon Bar
Offering yoga classes with the island’s best views by day and delightful cocktails to sip as the sun sets – sounds like a winning formula to me. This viewpoint bar has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, with reggae music often playing in the background and moon lanterns lighting up the night, staying true to its name.
There is a covered area, which is perfect for enjoying a coffee during the day without burning under the sun. Oh, and they have plant-based milk!
Sun Suwan 360° View & Bar
Sun Suwan 360°, also known simply as the 360° Viewpoint, is one of the viewpoints in Koh Tao with the best sunset panoramic views. Chill on a hammock, or go up the observation tower to capture photos of its premium location between Shark Bay and Chalok Bay.
Sun Suwan 360° charges a 50 baht (1,40€) fee, which is credited towards your first drink.
Hotels Worth a Viewpoint
Exploring Koh Tao viewpoints can be a fun adventure, but sometimes you just want to sip on a cocktail by your hotel’s pool while admiring the surrounding natural beauty. With that in mind, we have found the best cliffside hotels in Koh Tao, offering stunning views from their pool, rooms, or restaurant, so you can make the most of your time on the island.
Here are the best hotels in Koh Tao, that are worth a viewpoint:
Don’t assume that great views always come with hefty price tags. If you are on a budget, check out Deishaview Jungle Hostel*. While they only offer bunk bed rooms, they provide a privileged view of Chalok Baan Kao Bay and its village.
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