Over the course of several trips to Koh Tao, I’ve discovered that this little island is far more than just a diver’s paradise. Its dramatic mountainous landscapes, lush hillsides, and sweeping ocean vistas make it a dream for anyone who loves chasing incredible views.
Whether you’re after an adrenaline-pumping climb to a rocky boulder summit, a quiet mountain bar to watch the sunrise behind Koh Nang Yuan, or a hidden sunset spot with no one else around, one of the best things to do on Koh Tao is chasing views!
Here are my absolute favorite viewpoints on Koh Tao and how to find them.
Fraggle Rock
Fraggle Rock is one of Koh Tao’s top viewpoints, offering sweeping views of Sairee Beach, Mae Haad Bay, and Koh Nang Yuan. It’s easily accessible with a 5-minute hike from Exotic Hive, a vibrant restaurant serving as the trailhead.
The 100 THB entrance fee includes access to both Fraggle Rock and a bamboo platform viewpoint nearby (as well as some climbing boulders if you're into that).
The trail is short and easy, with a few steep sections supported by ropes where moss can make it slippery. At the top, the unique "rabbit ears" rock formation frames the panoramic views, creating a perfect backdrop for photos or a sunset timelapse. While less crowded than other viewpoints like John Suwan, Fraggle Rock offers different but equally spectacular scenery and a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere close to Sairee.
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint is arguably one of the most iconic and photogenic spots near Koh Tao, if not in all of the Gulf of Thailand.
This epic viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the sandbar connecting the famous island's three lush islets. The short hike begins right at the pier and takes only 10 minutes to reach the top, climbing concrete steps through shaded jungle (watch out for mosquitos!). At the summit, you’ll find massive boulders framing panoramic views of turquoise waters and white sand.
It’s a National Park area, so there’s a 250 THB entrance fee, and the island strictly prohibits single-use plastics (they check at the entrance).
To avoid long, sweaty lines at the viewpoint, I recommend starting right at the 10 a.m. opening or stay overnight at Koh Nang Yuan Dive Resort to enjoy the view after the day-trippers leave.
Logistics: Getting to Koh Nang Yuan involves a boat or longtail from Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Koh Phangan. You can also visit the viewpoint and snorkel at the Japanese Gardens site on a boat tour around the island (see below).
John Suwan Viewpoint
John Suwan Viewpoint, located at the southern tip of Koh Tao, is a must-visit for its breathtaking views over both the east and west coasts of the island. The short 500-meter hike begins near Freedom Beach, making it easily accessible by motorbike or taxi from Sairee. While the trail is pretty short, it’s steep and includes some rock scramblin but ropes are provided for assistance.
The viewpoint itself is a small rocky outcrop accommodating around 10–15 people, so it can feel crowded during sunset hours. I recommend arriving early in the day to beat the heat and avoid the busiest times as it's a good Koh Tao viewpoint for sunrise as well!
The 100 THB entrance fee supports the landowners, and in return, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular panoramic views on Koh Tao.
From the top, you’ll see an almost symmetrical coastline dotted with lush palm trees and, if you’re lucky, turtles swimming in Shark Bay below.
West Coast Viewpoint
West Coast Viewpoint offers some of the most stunning sunset views on Koh Tao, overlooking Sairee Beach, Mae Haad, and Koh Nang Yuan. Located near the island’s center, this spot is easily accessible via a short trail from Two View Restaurant on the road to Tanote Bay.
The hike itself is less than 500 meters and involves a gentle incline through shaded jungle, making it an easy one for most people.
The viewpoint is marked by two massive boulders leaning together, creating a natural doorway that opens up to a wide, flat rock platform. From here, you can soak in an epic panorama of the island’s west coast, with the golden sun dipping below the horizon. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and capture incredible photos, especially during sunset!
Tip: The 100 THB entrance fee includes access to the private trail and a drink at Two View as well as access to Tanote Peak (below).
Tanote Peak
Tanote Peak is one of Koh Tao’s highest and most scenic viewpoints, offering sweeping views of the island’s east coast, including Tanote Bay and Aow Leuk Beach. The hike starts at the same trailhead as West Coast Viewpoint above, right near Two View Restaurant, making it the perfect spot to visit first before ending your day with sunset at West View.
The trail is short and easy, taking just five minutes through a shaded forest to reach the rocky summit. Standing 350 meters above sea level, the views are incredible, and on clear days, you might even catch glimpses of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui in the distance. Tanote Peak is especially magical at sunrise, with soft golden light illuminating the coastline—well worth the early wake-up!
Tip: If you plan to visit both viewpoints, I recommend starting with Tanote Peak if you’re hiking in the afternoon, then doubling back to West Coast Viewpoint for sunset.
Koh Tao Lighthouse
The Koh Tao Lighthouse hike is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeking stunning views and crystal-clear snorkeling. Located at Gluay Teun Bay on the island's remote northeastern coast, this trail combines a steep jungle trek with the unique reward of climbing to the top of an old lighthouse for awesome views of Koh Tao's rugged coastline.
Once you find the trailhead at the abandoned Por Jai View restaurant, the trail is well-marked with red and white dots, so it's easy to follow despite the dense jungle and overgrown sections. The hike is moderate, covering 3.2 km round trip with steep ascents on the return. Once you reach Lighthouse Bay, the water is perfect for snorkeling but make sure to continue further to the lighthouse for one of my favorite remote viewpoints on Koh Tao!
Moondance Magic Resort
Moondance Magic Resort is a hidden gem on Koh Tao’s remote east coast, perched near Aow Leuk Beach. It's a resort but it also has a bar that is open to the public for free. I found it when I was searching for deep sections on the east coast for freediving– this is now my favorite freediving spot on Koh Tao (and a great viewpoint too).
Moondance's high decks with hammocks are perfect for sipping a drink while gazing out at the deep blue sea. There’s no entrance fee, but it’s a good idea to grab something from the bar to enjoy the facilities.
After taking in the view, walk down the steps to the deep water right from the rocks at the resort’s edge—an excellent Koh Tao snorkeling spot as well!
Dusit Buncha Resort
Dusit Buncha Resort offers one of Koh Tao’s most tranquil and under-the-radar sunset spots, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds at Sairee Beach or John Suwan. Located on the island’s northwest side, just 10 minutes from Sairee, this resort deck viewpoint boasts unobstructed views of Koh Nang Yuan and the sun dipping below the horizon.
You don’t need to stay at the resort to enjoy the view—simply park at the top and walk down through the resort toward the water. The terrace is a great place to relax, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can wander down to the rocky shoreline for a great photography spot or even rent a kayak or go snorkeling!
The best part? It’s completely free, though grabbing a drink or snack at the restaurant is a nice way to support the spot.
Tip: If you’ve got a drone, it’s also one of the best spots to capture Koh Nang Yuan from above without the hassle of crowds just don't launch it from the resort itself.
Top Point Viewpoint
Top Point is one of Koh Tao’s most rewarding viewpoints, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of Koh Nang Yuan, Sairee Beach, and Mae Haad. Perched high on the island’s northwest side, this massive boulder is accessible via a short but steep 1 km hike that starts just before Dusit Buncha Resort (above).
The trail is a very steep concrete road that is demanding, but the payoff is absolutely worth the effort, especially since there are a few more viewpoints afterwards as well (below).
The climb takes about 25 minutes and while you can attempt it by motorbike, I recommend leaving your bike near the bottom and tackling the hike on foot unless you’re confident on winding slippery roads. There’s a small bamboo bar at the top where you’ll pay a 100 THB entrance fee, which includes a cold drink—just no beer, damn!
Once you reach the top, the bamboo deck provides shade and a front-row seat to some of Koh Tao’s most spectacular views. From here, you can see Koh Nang Yuan’s famous sandbar in vivid detail and even spot Sairee’s coastline stretching out below.
Grape Viewpoint
Grape Viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular views of Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao’s northern coastline. Tucked away on the island’s northwest corner, this spot is accessible via the same challenging hike as Top Point starting near Dusit Buncha Resort, or from the Mango Bay Road side as well.
The hike begins gently but quickly turns steep, with a few flat sections offering a chance to catch your breath. About 20 minutes in, you’ll pass Top Point but the final stretch cuts through the lush jungle and eventually opens to a small restaurant and bar perched on the hilltop.
The 100 THB entrance fee includes a drink, and the setup here is fantastic—spacious decks, comfy cushions, and sweeping views of Koh Nang Yuan.
Grandfather Rock Lagoon
Grandfather Rock Lagoon is an abandoned hidden gem viewpoint on Koh Tao’s northwest corner, offering secluded views of Koh Nang Yuan and the northern coastline. Accessible via the same steep road as Top Point and Grape Viewpoint, it’s perfect for those craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure with absolutely nobody around!
Again, the hike starts near Dusit Buncha Resort and follows the same concrete trail that leads to Top Point. After a quick stop there, continue on to this abandoned viewpoint, passing the turn off to Grape View marked by a large boulder with a weathered bamboo deck on top.
The hike takes about 40 minutes in total, including a steep section near the end. Once there, you’ll find no entrance fee, no crowds, and a peaceful perch overlooking the coastline. Climbing the bamboo deck can feel a bit sketcghy, but the solitude and views of Koh Nang Yuan make it worth the effort.
Koh Tao Summit Viewpoint
Summit Viewpoint Bar is the highest viewpoint on Koh Tao, offering sweeping views of the west coast, including Sairee Beach and Jansom Bay. On clear days, you can even spot Koh Phangan and Koh Samui on the horizon.
The viewpoint is accessed via a steep and challenging road near Mango Bay. If you're confident on a motorbike, you can ride most of the way up, but the unsealed and slippery sections make it a tricky ascent, especially after rain. For a safer option, consider hiking the final stretch after parking at the fork near Jim View Bar. The 100 THB entrance fee includes access to both Summit Viewpoint and Jim View, along with a cold drink at the family-run bar.
The view is framed by the island’s lush jungle, and the rustic wooden platform provides a cozy spot to relax with a drink while taking it all in.
360 Viewpoint
Perched perfectly between Shark Bay and Chalok Bay, 360° Viewpoint (also known as Sun Suwan 360° View & Bar) offers some of the best panoramic views on Koh Tao. With its relaxed vibe, this is one of my favorite spots to soak in the island's scenery from a comfortable bar.
The viewpoint features net hammocks for lounging and a high observation tower for capturing incredible photos. At just 50 THB, the entrance fee is one of the cheapest of the viewpoint bars on Koh Tao—it also includes a free soft drink or water, or you can use it as credit toward a beer or cocktail.
To find 360°, look for the entrance on the left, about 100 meters past the Shark Bay parking area. If you end up at the Freedom Beach parking lot, you’ve gone too far. This spot’s chilled atmosphere and unbeatable views make it a must-visit, especially if you’re exploring the southern side of Koh Tao. It’s an ideal spot to relax and take in the island's beauty from above.
High the Moon Bar
High the Moon Bar is a spot I discovered on my most recent trip to Koh Tao. While I mentioned 360 view above is my favorite view in terms of bars– this one might just take the crown now. Sitting higher than 360° Viewpoint, this spot offers an unbeatable perspective of the coastline and lush hills below.
The vibe is laid-back and a little trippy, with reggae music usually playing in the background. There’s a huge moon-shaped light that glows after dark, and moon-themed electric candles on the tables. It's a great spot for a full-moon if you prefer a quiet drink away from the party scene at Koh Phangan.
There's a huge wooden deck as well which you can do sunrise yoga at, or simply lounging with a cold beer. The food is decent, and the owners are really friendly!
Love Koh Tao Viewpoint
Love @ Koh Tao is one of the island’s original viewpoints, offering panoramic views over the eastern coast, including Tanote Bay and further into the Gulf. On clear days, you can even spot Koh Phangan and Koh Samui in the distance. While it’s not ideal for sunsets due to its east-facing orientation, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxed morning or midday visit (or continue up to West Coast Viewpoint on the same road afterwards).
The viewpoint is easily accessible with good road access, making it a great option for those who prefer to skip the hike. From Sairee or Mae Haad, the journey takes about 15 minutes by scooter or 1.5 hours on foot. Be prepared for a few steep inclines and sharp bends along the way, especially near the entrance.
There's a cheap 20 THB entrance fee but it's waived if you grab a drink or snack from the restaurant. The setup here is perfect for couples and families, with spacious gardens, net hammocks, and colorful signs like the iconic “Love Koh Tao” sign, which are great for photos.
Pierra Point
Pierra Point is a lesser-known gem tucked away near Koh Tao’s iconic (and famously non-functional) wind generator. While the view is slightly overgrown these days, it’s still worth a stop if you’re driving between Chalok and Tanote Bay, especially for the unique perspective it offers of Aow Leuk Beach below.
To get there, head to the wind generator and turn left. The road gets rough toward the end, so you might need to park your bike and walk the final stretch. The viewpoint itself is quiet and hidden within the jungle, making it a peaceful escape from the island’s busier spots.
What makes Pierra Point special is its solitude and the distinct angle of Aow Leuk Beach framed by dense greenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can wander down further through the jungle to find a secluded boulder—you’re almost guaranteed to have it all to yourself!
And that's a wrap! I hope my Koh Tao viewpoint guide has helped you find some epic jungle, beach, or bar spots to enjoy the epic view over my favorite island in Thailand!
While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides I've written to the island:
Check out my guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!