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A complete travel guide to the best viewpoints in Koh Tao. You don’t want to miss these when visiting this stunning Thai island!
Planning a trip to the islands in the Gulf of Thailand? Then you’re probably wondering what to do in Koh Tao.
It may be the smallest of the Gulf islands, but there are plenty of incredible things to keep you occupied in this slice of paradise.
Koh Tao is famous for its scuba diving, snorkelling and white sandy beaches, but no trip to the island is complete without checking out some of its epic viewpoints. It is home to some of my favourite views across the whole of Thailand!
So, keep reading for a complete guide to visiting four breathtaking viewpoints on the Thai paradise of Koh Tao!
Where to Find The Best Koh Tao Viewpoints – Koh Tao Map
Below is a map of Koh Tao in which I’ve pinned all four viewpoints to help you find them easily.
4 Epic Viewpoints In Koh Tao
For stunning vistas over Koh Tao, these are the places you need to go! From the greens of the jungle interior to the ocean blues, you really are spoiled with a few great choices!
1. Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
Ok, this one may not actually be on Koh Tao itself, but rather the neighbouring island of Koh Nang Yuan. Only a 20-minute taxi boat ride from Koh Tao, this island is unique, tranquil and the definition of postcard-worthy! It really is one of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever visited!
The view here is one of the most iconic in Thailand and needs to be on your Koh Tao itinerary!
How to get to Koh Nang Yuan From Koh Tao
The easiest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Nang Yuan is by taking a taxi boat from the northern end of Sairee Beach. This is also the cheapest option too!
The taxi boats usually start operating around 9am and cost 250 baht per person for a return. Remember to organise a pick-up time with your captain.
Alternatively, you can organise a day trip with one of the tour operators on Koh Tao. But, expect to pay a bit more for this option.
Once you have arrived on Koh Nang Yuan, take a left along the beach until you reach the wooden walkway. From here, head left until you see an opening on the right. Follow this path to the top and you’ll be welcomed with one of Thailand’s most impressive views.
Entrance Fee
The cost to enter the island is 250 baht per person. This is another reason to make a day of it and enjoy cooling off in the beautiful clear water.
What To Expect
The hike up to the viewpoint isn’t very strenuous and should only take around 15 minutes. It does get hot though, so the earlier in the day the better! As a day visitor, you can enter the island from 9am.
Another reason to get there early is that it’s not a secret spot and the tour groups will start rolling in before 10.30am. The view is even more magical when the beach is empty!
We made it to the viewpoint by 10am with only two other people and the view was peaceful and impeccable! We left at 10.30am just as lots of people arrived at the top. There was definitely not much room for 2-way traffic on the narrow path!
2. John Suwan Viewpoint
Located at the very south of Koh Tao, the John Suwan Viewpoint is a unique lookout. The view of Chalok Baan Kao Bay to the left and Shark Bay to the right is split down the middle by a palm tree-covered ridge.
Many people regard this as one of the best viewpoints in Koh Tao for its unique perspective of the island. It’s definitely a must-do activity!
How to get there
The best way to get here (and around Koh Tao in general) is by scooter. There are a few rental shops around but I’d recommend Paanta Motorbike Rentals, a few streets from Mae Haad Pier. We hired a scooter here for 180 baht per day and they take cash deposits as opposed to your passport.
Once you have your scooter drive south to the entrance of Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort. The drive is easy and takes only 10 minutes from Sairee Beach. The viewpoint is located within the resort’s private land so you need to park up outside the gatehouse and pay to enter the resort.
From the entrance, follow the sign for the viewpoint by heading up the hill to the left.
The path is a little steep in places and a bit harder than I was expecting but nothing crazy. Thankfully there’s a rope to pull yourself up over the rocky parts.
Entrance Fee
The fee to enter the resort is 50 baht per person. As well as the viewpoint, this fee also includes access to Freedom Beach, a sun lounger and the toilet/showering facilities. Therefore, it’s worth scheduling some beach time after reaching the summit.
You are free to leave and re-enter to enjoy Freedom Beach later in the day. However, make sure to get stamped at the ticket booth so you aren’t charged twice.
What To Expect
The hike will take around 20 minutes and, as with the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint (and much of Thailand in general), it gets sweaty so the earlier you’re there the better. The hike isn’t too strenuous and we managed fine in flip flops. However, I’d recommend trainers for extra grip as you are scrambling up boulders in places.
Once at the top, you can catch your breath while taking in this incredible view! Remember to pack your camera as you’ll want to capture some epic landscape shots!
3. Summit Viewpoint
For a bird’s eye view of the island’s west coast, this is the one.
Summit Viewpoint is the highest Koh Tao viewpoint and has epic coastal and jungle views. The view stretches from Sairee Beach all the way down to Jansom Bay.
How to get there
Summit Viewpoint is a steep scooter drive north of Sairee Beach. Follow the the road north towards Mango Bay, and turn left onto the dirt road when you see the signpost for Mango Viewpoint at the top of the hill. From here, the track up to the viewpoint is steep and not in the best condition.
It can also become dangerous and slippery if it has been raining so keep that in mind. Although, even in the dry less experienced drivers could struggle to drive here safely.
We had a 125cc scooter and no rain but there were still a couple of parts where Lucy had to get off to let me drive up solo.
Entrance Fee
Entrance to Summit Viewpoint costs 100 baht per person because it is on private land. This also includes a cold drink.
What To Expect
Once you’ve paid to enter, you can take in the view from the wooden sheltered platform. Although there are cushions to sit back and enjoy your drink, it’s very rustic and not as developed as Love Koh Tao (detailed below).
There is also a boulder that you can walk out on to capture some amazing photos.
Related Post: Awesome Things To Do On Koh Phangan
4. Love Koh Tao Viewpoint
With Summit Viewpoint providing views over the west coast, Love Koh Tao serves epic views to the east!
How to Get There
By now you’ve probably realised that renting a scooter is the best way to explore Koh Tao.
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is a 10-15 minute easy but hilly ride from Sairee Beach towards Tanote Bay. As you near Tanote Bay look out for a sharp left at the top of one of the hills. This is the access road to Love Koh Tao and you can follow the well-paved road to the top.
Google Maps also provides accurate directions which makes finding Love Koh Tao easy!
Entrance Fee
The price to enter Love Koh Tao Viewpoint in 20 baht. However, this fee is waived if you buy something from the cafe.
We arrived mid-afternoon and picked up a couple of coffees to chill out and enjoy the view.
What To Expect
There’s no walking to this one – just park up, enter the friendly family-run cafe and take in the view over Tanote Bay. You’ll even find netted beds here to really kick back and chill out on.
This viewpoint can get quite busy as it is very well known. However, we still managed to grab some floor cushions to enjoy the view with our coffees.
Related Post: Awesome Things To Do On Koh Lipe
How to Get to Koh Tao
Being an island in the Gulf of Thailand with no airport, it’s inevitable that the last leg of your journey to Koh Tao will be by ferry. However, depending on where you are travelling from you will likely have to get a flight, train, or bus first.
Transport to Koh Tao can be booked with local tour agencies in all the touristy parts of Thailand. Or you can book online in advance.
12Go Asia is our favourite platform for booking transport across Thailand and other destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s great for conveniently booking combination tickets to have all your transfers from A to B included in one booking.
Bangkok to Koh Tao
The quickest and most convenient way to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao is by taking a flight to nearby Koh Samui. You can then catch the ferry over to Koh Tao. However, unless you grab a steal this is also going to be the most expensive option.
The alternative (and cheaper) route is to take a bus or train down to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then a ferry from there.
Koh Samui / Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
The neighbouring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are the most convenient places to reach Koh Tao.
Ferries to Koh Tao depart multiple times a day from both islands. Tickets can be bought in person at the ferry terminal, through a travel agency, or online at 12Go Asia.
Phuket to Koh Tao
To get to Koh Tao from Phuket you need to first take a bus or minivan to Surat Thani. From there you can take the ferry to Koh Tao.
The best way to organise this is to book a bus + ferry combination ticket. This type of ticket can be organised through a local travel agency or online with 12Go Asia.
Chiang Mai to Koh Tao
To get to Koh Tao from Chiang Mai or other destinations in the north of Thailand is quite a distance.
The best option is to take a flight to Koh Samui and then the ferry to Koh Tao.
An overland journey is not very practical unless you break up the very long trip with a night in Bangkok. However, even then it’s a long time to spend on buses or trains. Although, I must admit that I’ve seen crazier things done to save a few pennies!
Where to Stay on Koh Tao
You can find accommodation on the island for every budget. Koh Tao has a great variety of hotels, resorts, beach bungalows, hostels and Airbnbs.
However, choosing an area to stay on the island will depend on what vibe you are looking for.
To be close to all the action, amenities and restaurants, the best area to stay on Koh Tao is Sairee Beach. Here you’ll find accommodation for all budgets and the best selection of restaurants, shops, and bars. Sairee Beach is also a practical middle base for exploring other parts of the island.
If you’re looking for a more chilled vibe but not too far from amenities, then I’d suggest staying around the southern beaches – such as Chalok Baan Kao Bay or Shark Bay.
Or if disconnecting from everything is more your style, the north of the island is the quietest. It also feels the furthest from the bustle and buzzing bars of Sairee Beach.
Best Hotels on Koh Tao
To save you some research time, here are some top-rated Koh Tao accommodations with something for every budget:
Best Budget Choice: The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel
This eco-friendly hostel offers both dorms and spacious private rooms. With a bright and aesthetic interior, you can also kick back in the common areas, roof terrace and swimming pool. The hostel is built over 5 levels for great jungle views!
Best Mid-Range Choice: Viewpoint Resort Koh Tao
From deluxe cottages to full holiday homes with private pools. Viewpoint Resort’s reviews speak for themselves! Located 500m from Chalok Baan Kao Beach, guests can choose to relax by the pool or snorkel/kayak from the private beach.
Best Luxury Choice: Jamahkiri Dive Resort & Spa
Overlooking Shark Bay this stunning and luxurious resort is situated in a prime location for snorkelling and exploring the underwater world. From spectacular sea-view rooms to modern open-plan villas with private pools, get ready to unwind in tropical luxury!
Koh Tao FAQs
When is the Best time to visit Koh Tao?
In general, you can have a great island getaway on Koh Tao at any time of the year. This is due to its tropical, sunny climate and steady hot temperatures.
However, when planning your trip it’s helpful to be aware of the weather in Koh Tao and the general seasons that the island experiences. These include:
Dry Season: February through May sees little rain and scorching temperatures making almost every day a perfect beach day. For diving, this is also the time of year with the highest chance of seeing magnificent whale sharks!
Windy Season: June through September is considered Koh Tao’s hot and windy season. Temperatures stay very high but high winds and bigger waves are often present. This period is one of the best for diving on Koh Tao with underwater visibility reaching 30+ metres.
Wet Season: October through January is the coolest and wettest period in Koh Tao. Although, temperatures rarely drop below 26-28 degrees so don’t worry about being cold! The monsoon season peaks in October and November with heavy showers generally making an appearance in the afternoon. Be prepared for it to rain for days in a row during this time but there’s often sunny beach weather around the showers!
Remember: Koh Tao is a tropical destination and while these seasons are a helpful guide, unpredictable weather can occur at any time!
How to get around Koh Tao?
The best way to get around Koh Tao is to rent a scooter. This allows you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore on your own schedule.
Prices can vary depending on the time of year of your visit and how long you want to rent for. You’ll also be required to leave either your passport or cash as a deposit. We highly recommend only ever leaving cash for safety reasons.
We highly recommend Paanta Motorbike Rentals Koh Tao as we received great service from them and their reviews from other customers are also fantastic!
However, if you don’t feel comfortable on a scooter then don’t worry! The best option is to use shared taxis (songtheows) to get around the island.
Pro travel tips: When renting a scooter in Thailand always check Google reviews, only leave cash as a deposit and take thorough pictures of the bike’s condition.
Where to Eat On Koh Tao?
I’m a real lover of Thai food and one of my favourite authentic, family-run restaurants in Thailand is located on Koh Tao – Mama Tam’s. The tasty Thai dishes and backpacker prices mean you’ll need to get there early if you don’t want to wait for a table!
If high-end dining is your style, make sure to check out Barracuda Roof Top Restaurant and Terrace. This restaurant is known for its large variety of Western-style seafood dishes and sharing platters. It’s also a great spot for sunset, cocktails, and live music.
The Factory Cafe is the place to go for tasty coffee and/or brunch. Here you can enjoy healthy dishes with gluten-free, vegan, and extra protein options. This aesthetic cafe is also a popular spot for digital nomads looking to get some laptop work done.
Are There ATMs On Koh Tao?
Cash is king in Thailand and you’ll need it for your time on Koh Tao.
There are several ATMs located on the island – most of which are in the Mae Head and Sairee Beach areas.
While it’s difficult to avoid the 220 baht ATM fees in Thailand, make sure you’re not also hit with an international fee by using a fee-free debit card!
Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?
There are countless stunning tropical islands to visit in Thailand. So, you may be wondering if Koh Tao is a worthy addition to your itinerary – especially if scuba diving isn’t your thing.
Well, I’d say this island packs a punch for its relatively small size! It has a perfect blend of activities, adventure, relaxing beaches, and nightlife to justify at least a couple of days of your trip!
And if scuba diving IS your thing (or you want it to be) Koh Tao is famous for being one of the cheapest places to get PADI Certified.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the viewpoints in Koh Tao was a real highlight of our time on the island. It’s always unique to see somewhere from above and the views here certainly don’t disappoint!
So make sure to check out at least a couple of viewpoints when you visit!
If you have any questions about these viewpoints or Koh Tao, leave a comment below and I’ll get back to you!
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