Are you planning a trip to the islands in the Gulf of Thailand? You may be wondering what to do in Koh Tao. Despite being the smallest of the Gulf Islands, this slice of paradise provides a plethora of exciting activities. Koh Tao is famous for its amazing scuba diving, snorkeling, and gorgeous white-sand beaches. But trust me, no trip there is truly complete without checking out some of its stunning viewpoints. Some of my favorite views in all of Thailand can be found here.
So, keep reading for your ultimate guide to exploring stunning Koh Tao viewpoints in the Thai paradise of Koh Tao!
Table of Contents
Best Viewpoints In Koh Tao, Thailand
Map
Summit Viewpoint
Summit Viewpoint on Koh Tao reigns supreme as the island’s highest viewpoint, gracing visitors with unparalleled panoramic vistas. Imagine sprawling emerald jungles meeting the turquoise embrace of the ocean, all stretching out before you. On a day blessed with clear skies, you might even catch a glimpse of islands speckling the Thai mainland.
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- Location: 4R7M+96, 4R7M+96G, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani, Thailand
- Entry fee: There is a 100 THB entrance fee to access the viewpoint and the bar.
- Breathtaking Views: Yes, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the island, the ocean, and nearby islands on a clear day.
- Easy Accessibility: No, the road to the viewpoint is steep and unpaved and can be challenging to navigate, especially after rain or for less experienced drivers.
- Perfect for Sunsets: Yes, due to its west coast location, the viewpoint offers stunning sunset views.
Mango Viewpoint
Mango Viewpoint is considered one of the best viewpoints on Koh Tao Island, especially for sunsets. It’s located high in the hills on the island’s north side, offering stunning panoramic views of the west coast, including Sairee Beach and Mango Bay. There’s a small restaurant with lounge spots where you can relax, enjoy the view, and grab refreshments. They even have a unique feature where you can leave a message and your name on the walls with paint and a brush provided!
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- Location:4R6M+FV6, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
- Entry fee: No entrance fee is mentioned for Mango Viewpoint.
- Breathtaking Views: Yes! The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of Koh Tao’s west coast, including bays, beaches, and the surrounding turquoise waters.
- Easy Accessibility: No. Reaching Mango Viewpoint requires a hike up a steep, sometimes unmarked trail. It’s not recommended for those who are unfit or uncomfortable with hiking.
- Perfect for Sunsets: Yes! The viewpoint’s west coast location offers unobstructed views of magical sunset scenery.
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
The Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint is one of the most famous viewpoints in Thailand, and for good reason. It offers stunning views of the three islands that make up Koh Nang Yuan, as well as the surrounding turquoise waters. The viewpoint is a short hike from the beach, but the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. The panorama from the summit is genuinely awe-inspiring. You can see all of Koh Nang Yuan, as well as the nearby island of Koh Tao. The water is so clear that you can see the coral reefs and fish swimming below.
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- Location: Koh Nang Yuan Island, off the west coast of Koh Tao, Thailand.
- Entry fee: There is a 100 baht fee to enter Koh Nang Yuan Island, which includes access to the viewpoint.
- Breathtaking Views: Absolutely! The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the three islands of Koh Nang Yuan, as well as the turquoise waters and surrounding limestone cliffs.
- Easy Accessibility: The hike to the viewpoint is a short, 15-minute walk along a concrete path and stairs. There is a short scramble over some rocks at the end, but otherwise, it is considered an easy walk.
- Perfect for Sunsets: Yes! The viewpoint faces west, so you’ll get stunning views of the sunset over the water.
John Suwan Viewpoint
John Suwan Viewpoint is one of the most beloved and iconic spots on Koh Tao, offering stunning views of the island from the south side. The short walk up to the viewpoint is also scenic, winding through coconut groves. Here’s a snippet from the web: John Suwan Viewpoint Koh Tao: The Funky Turtle
John Suwan viewpoint is approximately 4.5 kilometers from Sairee Beach and offers breathtaking views of Koh Tao from the south side of the island facing north. It looks over both the east and west coasts of Koh Tao.
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- Location: Koh Tao, Thailand (southernmost tip of the island)
- Entry fee: 50 baht
- Breathtaking Views: Yes! Offers panoramic views of the island, including Chalok Bay, Shark Bay (Thian Og), Sai Daeng Bay, Shark Island, and dense green jungle in the centre.
- Easy Accessibility: Somewhat. The viewpoint is a short walk (15-20 minutes) up a moderately steep path. The path can be uneven and rocky, so proper footwear is recommended. Also, the heat and humidity can make the hike more challenging.
- Perfect for Sunsets: Yes! John Suwan Viewpoint is a popular spot to watch the sunset over the island.
Two View Bar & Restaurant Viewpoint
Two View Bar & Restaurant Viewpoint is a restaurant in Koh Tao, Thailand, that offers stunning views of the west coast of the island and Koh Nang Yuan. It’s a great place to relax with a drink or some Thai food and take in the scenery. The restaurant is also home to a friendly couple, at least one dog, and a couple of cats.
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- Location: Koh Tao, Thailand
- Entry fee: Free
- Breathtaking Views: Yes
- Easy Accessibility: Somewhat. Accessible by motorbike or on foot, one can journey from Sairee Beach along a scenic hiking trail to reach this destination.
- Perfect for Sunsets: Yes
4-day itinerary Koh Tao viewpoint
Day – 1
Summit Viewpoint & Sairee Beach
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- Morning: Rise early and head to Summit Viewpoint, the highest viewpoint on Koh Tao. Enjoy panoramic sunrise views of the island and the surrounding turquoise waters.
- Lunch: After soaking in the views, head down to Sairee Beach, the island’s main tourist hub. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants that serve fresh seafood and Thai specialties.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach, go for a swim in the clear waters, or try your hand at some water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Break: In the afternoon heat, take a break at Sairee Cottage, a charming cafe with hammocks and beanbags offering refreshing drinks and light bites
- Dinner: Treat yourself to a beachfront dinner at The Beach Club, a popular restaurant with stunning sunset views and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Sleep: Spend the night at Sairee Beach Bungalows, a laid-back resort with comfortable bungalows nestled amidst lush greenery, just steps away from the beach.
Day – 2
Mango Viewpoint & Tanote Bay
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- Morning: Make your way to Mango Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Bay.
- Lunch: Grab a quick and delicious lunch at Mango Bay Restaurant, located near the viewpoint, serving Thai dishes and international cuisine.
- Afternoon: Head to Tanote Bay, a beautiful and secluded beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Explore the nearby coral reefs, teeming with colorful marine life.
- Break: Enjoy refreshing coconut water or a local Thai iced tea from any of the vendors on the beach while soaking up the sun.
- Dinner: In the evening, head back to Sairee Beach and enjoy a delicious dinner at Coco Tam’s, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Thai curries and fresh seafood dishes.
- Sleep: Rest comfortably for another night at Sairee Beach Bungalows.
Day – 3
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint & Koh Nang Yuan
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- Morning: Take a boat trip from Sairee Beach or Mae Haad to Koh Nang Yuan, a tiny island with a unique three-way sandbar formation. Hike up the viewpoint on the main island for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and the neighbouring islands.
- Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the beachside restaurant on Koh Nang Yuan, offering stunning views and a variety of Thai and international dishes.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon swimming, snorkelling, or sunbathing on the pristine beaches of Koh Nang Yuan.
- Break: Relax under the shade of palm trees on the beach and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
- Dinner: Upon returning to Koh Tao, have a celebratory dinner at Fizz Beach Boutique Resort, a beachfront restaurant with a romantic ambience and delectable seafood dishes.
- Sleep: Spend your last night at Simple Life Resort, a charming beachfront resort offering comfortable bungalows and stunning sunset views.
Day – 4
John Suwan Viewpoint & Relaxation
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- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and then head to John Suwan Viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views of the east coast of Koh Tao and the neighbouring islands.
- Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at the viewpoint’s restaurant, offering Thai dishes and refreshing drinks with a view.
- Afternoon: Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the pool at your hotel or exploring the nearby shops and markets in Sairee Beach.
- Break: In the afternoon, indulge in a pampering massage at any of the numerous massage parlours in Sairee Beach.
- Dinner: Enjoy your final farewell dinner at The Gallery Restaurant, a fine-dining restaurant with an elegant ambience and exquisite Thai and international cuisine.
- Departure: Depending on your departure time, you can relax at your
How to reach Koh Tao viewpoint
To reach the Koh Tao viewpoint, you can follow these general steps:
Reach Koh Tao Island:
If you’re not already on Koh Tao Island, you’ll need to get there first. Koh Tao is a small island in Thailand, known for its diving spots and scenic beauty. You can reach Koh Tao by ferry from various points in Thailand, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or the mainland (Chumphon or Surat Thani).
Transportation to the Viewpoint:
Once on Koh Tao Island, you’ll need to get to the viewpoint. There are a few options:
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- Renting a Scooter or Motorcycle: This is one of the most popular options for getting around the island. You can rent a scooter or motorcycle from various rental shops on the island. Always ensure you’re wearing a helmet and prioritize safe driving practices.
- Taxi or Songthaew: You can also hire a taxi or hop on a Songthaew (shared pickup truck) to take you to the viewpoint. Negotiate the price before getting in.
- Hiking: If you’re up for it, you can hike to the viewpoint. Be prepared for a steep and challenging hike, but the views along the way can be rewarding.
Navigating to the Viewpoint:
The exact location of the viewpoint can vary depending on whom you ask, but it’s typically located in the southern part of the island. Ask locals or use a map app to navigate to the viewpoint. It’s often signposted, but the signs can be small and easy to miss.
Enjoying the View:
Once you’ve reached the viewpoint, take your time to enjoy the panoramic views of Koh Tao and its surrounding islands. Ensure to carry water, sunscreen, and a camera to immortalize the stunning landscapes.
Know Before You Go koh tao viewpoint
Here are some travel tips for visitors to the Koh Tao viewpoint:
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- Wear Comfortable Footwear: The hike up to the viewpoint can be quite steep and rocky in some places, so it’s essential to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
- Bring Water and Snacks: Remember to carry enough water to stay hydrated during the hike. Packing some light snacks can also be helpful, especially if you plan to spend some time enjoying the view.
- Sun Protection: Koh Tao can get quite hot, especially during midday. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Start Early: To avoid the midday heat and crowds, consider starting your hike early in the morning. Not only will you have a more pleasant experience, but you’ll also have the chance to witness a stunning sunrise if you time it right.
- Respect the Environment: Koh Tao is known for its natural beauty, so please be mindful of the environment during your visit. Avoid leaving any litter behind and stick to designated paths to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.
- Stay Hydrated: Even if the weather doesn’t feel too hot, hiking can still be dehydrating. Make sure to drink water regularly throughout your hike to avoid fatigue and dehydration.
- Watch Your Step: Some parts of the trail can be uneven or slippery, so watch your step and take your time, especially on the descent.
- Bring a camera: The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Tao and its surrounding islands. Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery.
- Check the Weather: Before embarking on your hike, check the weather forecast to ensure optimal conditions. Rainy or stormy weather can make the trail more challenging and less enjoyable.
- Enjoy the View: Once you reach the viewpoint, take some time to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re admiring the sunrise or sunset, the panoramic views of Koh Tao are sure to leave a lasting impression.
FAQs of Koh Tao Viewpoint
What are the best viewpoints on Koh Tao?
Some of the most popular viewpoints in Koh Tao include the John-Suwan viewpoint, the Mango viewpoint, and the Two Views viewpoint.
How do I get to the viewpoints in Koh Tao?
Most viewpoints in Koh Tao are accessible by hiking trails or motorbike. Some may require a bit of effort to reach, but the stunning views make it worth the journey.
What should I bring to the viewpoints?
It’s recommended to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes if you’re planning to hike to the viewpoints. Additionally, a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery is a must.
Are there entrance fees for Koh Tao viewpoints?
Most viewpoints in Koh Tao are free to visit, but some may have a small entrance fee. It’s always a good idea to check ahead of time, especially for privately owned viewpoints.
What is the best time to visit Koh Tao viewpoints?
Early morning or late afternoon are often the best times to visit viewpoints in Koh Tao to catch the sunrise or sunset and avoid the midday heat.
Are the viewpoints suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Some viewpoints may involve steep or uneven terrain, so it’s essential to assess each viewpoint’s accessibility before bringing children or elderly visitors. Some viewpoints may be more suitable than others.
Can I visit multiple Koh Tao viewpoints in one day?
Yes, it’s possible to visit multiple viewpoints in one day, but it depends on their locations and your mode of transportation. Plan your itinerary so that you can make the most of your time and see the island from various perspectives.
Are there facilities available at the viewpoints?
Facilities such as restrooms or refreshment stands may not be available at all viewpoints, especially those in more remote locations. Don’t forget to bring along any supplies you might need!
Are there guided tours to Koh Tao viewpoints?
Some tour operators on the island offer guided tours that include visits to various viewpoints. These tours typically include transportation and offer valuable local insights into the area.
What should I be cautious of when visiting Koh Tao viewpoints?
Be mindful of your belongings, especially valuables, as theft can occur in tourist areas. Additionally, respect the environment by not littering and staying on designated paths to preserve the natural beauty of the viewpoints.