The John Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao is easily the best viewpoint on the entire island. Enjoy panoramic views over Shark Bay, Chalok Baan Kao Bay, and the north of Koh Tao.
However, there is a decent trek to reach the summit of this viewpoint, so it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted. Not to mention, there are constant stunning views along the entire walk, so no matter where you are, be sure to take a look around!
I highly recommend enjoying this adventure with a friend so you can get some pictures at the top! Continue reading my insider’s guide for information on reaching the lookout, what you need to bring, and other things you can do in the area.
John Suwan Viewpoint, Koh Tao
How to Get to the Viewpoint
To begin the adventure, you will need to head south toward the viewpoint. The drive from Sairee Beach will only take you about 12 minutes. Then, park your scooter at Freedom Beach and pay a 50 Baht admission fee. Moreover, this grants you access to the two beaches and viewpoints, so it’s a great location to hang out for the afternoon and sunset.
Once you’ve parked at Freedom Beach, follow the signage towards the viewpoint, and then there will be a clear marking with a blue sign for the beginning of the trail.
Firstly, the trail starts off quite easy with a simple dirt track, but you will soon need to climb boulders and rocks while using a rope to hoist yourself up. Therefore, it’s best to bring some sturdy footwear and a backpack to stash your things away.
Continue following the ropes all the way up the trail; It’s pretty clear to see where the track takes you, so don’t fear getting lost. However, the last boulder to reach the top of the viewpoint is the trickiest. It’s very large and requires some skilled foot placement as well as a bit of upper-body strength to pull yourself up. Take it easy and slowly when completing the last bit of the hike.
After you’ve enjoyed the views for some time and taken plenty of photos, head down the same way to reach the car park.
Time duration: 1-hour return
Admission fee: 50 Thai Baht per person
Opening hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Address: John Suwan Viewpoint, 3R6H+3QG, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
What to Bring
For the most part, I would avoid wearing flip flops / thongs or open-toed shoes as you wouldn’t want to stub your toe, roll your ankle or slip down any of the rocks. So, plan ahead and wear some closed-toe footwear to be safe!
Additionally, if you plan to bring a few things, I advise putting all your gear into a backpack so that you have both hands free to use the ropes for climbing.
- Water bottle
- Camera or phone
- Sturdy footwear
- Snacks for the top
- Hat or sunglasses
When to Visit the Viewpoint
To be honest, you could visit this viewpoint and any time of the day would be absolutely magnificent. You can enjoy both sunrise and sunset views at this stunning location depending on opening hours. Nonetheless, anytime during the day is great, but try to make it an early trip to skip the heat of the day!
Please don’t visit this viewpoint when it’s raining, as the rocks will be incredibly slippery and it won’t be much fun if you slip. Also, try to avoid visiting just after rain as everything will still be wet. So, try to look out for a dry and clear day to visit this viewpoint!
Read more: Koh Tao Pub Crawl: Thailands Best Pub Crawl
Why You Should Visit the John Suwan Viewpoint
The John Suwan Viewpoint is easily the most beautiful lookout location in Koh Tao. And, it has to be one of Thailand’s most beautiful lookouts!
Moreover, the panoramic views are truly hard to beat, and the tropical feeling makes it insanely idyllic. From this location, you will be able to see boats zooming around, people wandering on the nearby beaches, the north of Koh Tao, the jungle and so much more.
Finally, this is my favourite viewpoint on Koh Tao and the effort to reach the top is absolutely worth the reward!
Things to Do in the Area
Since you’ve likely parked your scooter or been dropped off at the Freedom Beach entrance, there are a few things you can do in the area to make the most of your time down the South of Koh Tao.
Firstly, I recommend checking out Freedom Beach. Moreover, this is the perfect spot for snorkelling, swimming, relaxing on the beach, and even grabbing a bite to eat. It’s an absolutely gorgeous spot to relax for an afternoon before hiking up to the John Suwan Viewpoint.
Secondly, Taa Toh Lagoon is another gorgeous place to explore. And, you can also do some much-needed resting and relaxing in this idyllic location. Besides, this is the ultimate sunset spot if you’re too tired to hike to the viewpoint.
Additionally, you could head around to Shark Bay to enjoy some more gorgeous white sand beaches and enjoy some time snorkelling in the water.
Finally, if you’re looking for a bite to eat, stay local and have some food at Freedom Beach bar, or head a little further up the road to Big Fish restaurant or Big Bubble restaurant.
Read more: 12 Things to Do in Koh Tao, Thailand: An Insiders Guide
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, this is the ultimate viewpoint to visit on Koh Tao, especially if you have limited time to enjoy the island. Besides, this is a great area to enjoy for the day with multiple beaches and bays to explore.
So, set yourself up for an afternoon of hiking, stunning views, relaxing beaches, and lunch or dinner at the local restaurants.
Finally, don’t miss this incredible viewpoint. It will be a major highlight on your time in Koh Tao!
Are you planning to visit the John Suwan Viewpoint?
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