23rd March 2025
Highlights
John-Suwan Viewpoint offers panoramic views of Chalok Baan Kao Bay and Shark Bay.
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint offers a famous overlook accessible by a short boat ride.
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is renowned for its beautiful views of Tanote Bay and easy access.
Sunset Viewpoint offers captivating sunset views over the island’s western coast.
Mango Viewpoint is ideal for those who enjoy hiking to panoramic island views.
Discover the Beautiful Viewpoints of Koh Tao
Welcome to Koh Tao, a tropical paradise in Thailand known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Beyond its underwater wonders, Koh Tao also boasts some of the most stunning viewpoints in the area. These natural lookout points offer sweeping panoramas that showcase the island’s lush landscapes and blue seas, making them a must-visit for any traveler seeking a bit of adventure and a whole lot of beauty.
A Look at the Best Viewpoints on Koh Tao
Koh Tao is home to a multitude of viewpoints, each providing a different view and experience. Whether you’re looking for something easily accessible or a bit more off the beaten path, there’s a viewpoint for you. Here are the top viewpoints you need to check out:
John-Suwan Viewpoint
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint
Sunset Viewpoint
Mango Viewpoint
John-Suwan Viewpoint
Located on the southernmost tip of Koh Tao, John-Suwan Viewpoint is widely regarded as one of the most iconic views on the island. The viewpoint was named after two friends, John and Suwan, who stumbled upon this breathtaking location. From this vantage point, you can see all the way from Chalok Baan Kao Bay to Shark Bay.
Stunning views of Chalok Baan Kao Bay and Shark Bay
From the top of this viewpoint, you’ll get an amazing view of the greenery merging with the bright blue waters. On one side, you’ll find the peaceful Chalok Baan Kao Bay, and on the other, the beautiful Shark Bay, known for its snorkeling and marine life. The view is divided by a thin strip of land, creating a captivating view that is perfect for photography lovers.
First and foremost, the fusion of lush green hills and pristine clear waters is a sight for sore eyes, providing a peek into the natural charm that Koh Tao is famous for.
When to Go: Dawn or Dusk
John-Suwan Viewpoint is most spectacular at dawn or dusk. Dawn brings the day’s first light, casting a rosy, orange glow across the sky, while dusk bathes the landscape in a warm, golden light. These times of day are also cooler, making the climb up more pleasant.
The Viewpoint at Koh Nang Yuan
Not too far from Koh Tao, you’ll find the beautiful island of Koh Nang Yuan. This island is famous for its sandbar, which connects three smaller islands, and it’s a favorite spot for day-trippers who want to see its natural splendor. If you’re in Koh Tao, you must visit the viewpoint here.
Stunning View on Nearby Island
The Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint delivers a memorable sweeping view of the sandbar and the surrounding bright blue waters. From the top, you can see the distinctive formation of the islands and the colorful coral reefs under the surface. This viewpoint is a photographer’s paradise, offering a unique vantage point that captures the true spirit of a tropical paradise.
Due to its distinct natural structures, the viewpoint at Koh Nang Yuan is frequently regarded as one of the most famous views in the Gulf of Thailand.
How to get to Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Tao
You can reach Koh Nang Yuan by taking a brief boat trip from the main pier on Koh Tao, which typically lasts around 15 minutes. Upon arrival, you’ll need to pay a minor entrance fee to access the island and its amenities. From there, you’ll have a brief hike to the viewpoint, where you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views.
Remember that the island has certain regulations, like not allowing plastic bottles, to maintain its natural beauty. So, prepare accordingly and enjoy your trip to this amazing viewpoint.
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint
On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find Love Koh Tao Viewpoint. This spot offers a unique view of Koh Tao’s beautiful landscape. With a charming café and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery. For more information on other stunning Koh Tao viewpoints, be sure to check out this guide.
Tanote Bay’s Picturesque Scenery
Love Koh Tao offers a panoramic view of Tanote Bay and the eastern shoreline. This viewpoint offers a peaceful ambiance, complete with a quaint café where you can enjoy a cool beverage while appreciating the view. It’s the perfect place for those who want to relax and get away from the island’s more crowded areas.
Convenient Location and Amenities
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is a convenient destination, thanks to its proximity to the main road. You can quickly reach the viewpoint from the island’s central locations. Plus, the viewpoint has clear signs, so you won’t have any trouble finding it. Once you’re there, you can take advantage of the basic amenities, such as restrooms and a café, to make your visit more enjoyable.
In addition to this, the laid-back ambiance and breathtaking panoramas make it a hit with tourists looking for a serene getaway. For those interested in exploring the island’s underwater beauty, the best diving spots in Koh Tao offer an unforgettable experience.
Koh Tao’s Sunset Viewpoint
End your day on Koh Tao at the perfect spot, Sunset Viewpoint. This viewpoint provides a unique experience as the sun sets below the horizon, illuminating the sky with bright red, orange, and pink colors. It’s a breathtaking sight that mesmerizes tourists and leaves them with unforgettable memories. After enjoying the sunset, you might want to explore some of the best beach bars on the island to continue your evening.
Where to Find Sunset Views and What to Expect
Sunset Viewpoint is situated on the west side of the island and is a breeze to reach by scooter or taxi. Once you get there, you’ll find a path that leads up to the viewpoint. This is where you can sit back, relax, and watch the sunset. It’s a very laid-back atmosphere with other tourists gathering to take in the view and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. For those interested in exploring more of what Koh Tao has to offer, check out the best beach bars on the island.
As the sun sets, it bathes the island in a warm, golden light that highlights the beauty of the surroundings and creates a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to unwind and reflect after a day of adventure.
Photo Ops from the Rock
Sunset Viewpoint is a must-see, not least because of the giant rock that gives you the perfect spot for your photos. From this point, you can take amazing pictures of the sunset, with the island’s rough coastline as a dramatic backdrop. The rock’s high position gives you a clear, unobstructed view, making it a favorite among photographers.
If you’re a professional or just love taking pictures, Sunset Viewpoint provides plenty of chances to capture the essence of Koh Tao’s natural beauty.
Mango Viewpoint
Another gem on Koh Tao is Mango Viewpoint. This spot offers breathtaking views of the island’s lush interior. It is known for its panoramic views and peaceful setting. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective. After enjoying the view, consider exploring the best beach bars on Koh Tao to unwind and enjoy the island’s atmosphere.
Situated in the north of Koh Tao
Provides views of the island’s inner and coastal areas
Can be reached by a picturesque hike
Perfect for those who love nature and photography
From Mango Viewpoint, the island’s undulating hills and thick forests can be seen, creating a striking contrast with the blue waters below. It’s a view that displays the varied landscapes of Koh Tao, giving a peek into its abundant natural heritage.
Not only are the views amazing, but getting to Mango Viewpoint is an adventure all on its own, involving a picturesque hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes on the island.
Take a Hike to Mango Viewpoint
While it might take some effort to get to Mango Viewpoint, the payoff is more than worth it. The hike is moderately challenging, taking you through lush forests and along winding trails. It’s a journey that immerses you in the island’s natural beauty, offering a chance to explore its diverse ecosystems.
As you ascend, you’ll come across different types of flora and possibly some native fauna. It’s important to wear shoes that you feel comfortable in and to carry a lot of water, as the climb can be strenuous, particularly in hot weather. For those interested in exploring the underwater world, consider checking out the top dive centers on Koh Tao for a refreshing adventure.
Off the Beaten Path: Lesser-Known Viewpoints
Though all of viewpoints on Koh Tao are a must-see, there are a few off-the-beaten-path locations that offer views just as breathtaking. These hidden treasures offer a more private experience, away from the hustle and bustle and closer to the tranquility of nature.
Checking out these off-the-beaten-path viewpoints is an excellent method to uncover the island’s hidden gems and experience some serenity and peace. What’s more, these locations provide distinctive viewpoints of Koh Tao’s scenery, with vistas that are every bit as stunning as the more well-known spots.
Tips for Hiking to Hidden Viewpoints
When you’re venturing out to these less-traveled viewpoints, make sure you’re ready. The trails to these spots aren’t always as well-maintained as the ones leading to the more popular spots, so you’ll need good shoes and a keen sense of direction. Also, be sure to pack enough water and a few snacks, since these viewpoints are usually more off the beaten path and may not have any amenities nearby.
More than anything, remember to slow down and relish the experience. The climb to these viewpoints is an adventure in itself, giving you an opportunity to commune with nature and appreciate the island’s beauty firsthand.
Wrapping Up on Koh Tao’s Viewpoints
The viewpoints of Koh Tao are more than just picturesque locations; they are portals to the spirit of the island, offering peeks into its natural allure and serene appeal. Whether you’re climbing to a secluded viewpoint or taking in a casual view from a café, each viewpoint offers a different angle of the island’s varied terrains.
Top Picks for Must-Visit Locations
If it’s your first time visiting, I suggest you start with the John-Suwan Viewpoint for its awe-inspiring panoramic views, then head to Koh Nang Yuan for its famous sandbar vistas. The Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is ideal for a laid-back afternoon, while the Sunset Viewpoint offers an unforgettable way to wrap up your day. If you’re a fan of hiking, the Mango Viewpoint offers a challenging trek with amazing views of the interior.
Common Questions
As you get ready for your trip to Koh Tao, you might have a few questions about the viewpoints. Here are some typical questions and useful answers to help you plan, including where to find the best parties in Koh Tao to enjoy after a day of exploring.
Which viewpoint is the most accessible on Koh Tao?
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is the most accessible, with its prime location near the main road and on-site amenities. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy the island’s views in a quick and easy way.
Do any viewpoints have entrance fees?
Most viewpoints on Koh Tao are free to visit, but Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint and John-Suwan does have a small entrance fee. The fee is used to keep up the island’s facilities and protect its natural beauty.
Are these viewpoints open all year?
Indeed, Koh Tao’s viewpoints are open all year. Nonetheless, the optimal time to visit is during the dry season, from March to September, when the weather is perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. During the rainy season, some trails might be slippery or hard to reach.
Can I get a guide for hiking to remote spots?
Not as such, there aren’t really guides for these viewpoints but there are groups that regularly go so it might be worth asking to come along, especially if you are not an experienced hiker.
What do I need to bring for a day of viewpoint exploration?
If you’re planning to explore the viewpoints of Koh Tao, don’t forget to bring necessities like hiking shoes that are comfortable to walk in, sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, a hat, and enough water to keep you hydrated. Don’t forget to bring a camera to take pictures of the breathtaking views, and a light snack to keep you energized during longer treks.
Dive with LBD: Your Gateway to Underwater Exploration
Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned pro, our school is your portal to the wonders of scuba diving. Join us into the world beneath the waves.
READY TO GET STARTED?
Check our diving courses in Koh Tao


