John-Suwan Viewpoint | Koh Tao

John-Suwan Viewpoint – The Best Panoramic View on Koh Tao

John-Suwan Viewpoint is one of the most spectacular viewpoints on Koh Tao, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the island. From the top, you can see Chalok Baan Kao Bay, Shark Bay, and the lush green hills of Koh Tao, making it one of the best spots for photography and sightseeing.

Location and Overview

• Where: The viewpoint is located at the southern tip of Koh Tao, near Chalok Baan Kao Bay and Shark Bay.
• Access: Requires a 20–30-minute hike from the parking area. The trail is steep and rocky but manageable with proper footwear.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and the best lighting conditions.
• Entrance Fee: 50 THB per person, which often includes access to Freedom Beach.

Why Visit John-Suwan Viewpoint?

• Best panoramic views – You get a 360-degree view of Koh Tao, including the twin bays of Chalok Baan Kao and Shark Bay.
• Breathtaking sunrise and sunset – The viewpoint offers stunning sunrise views over the Gulf of Thailand and beautiful sunsets in the evening.
• Adventure and hiking – The trek up to the viewpoint is fun and challenging, adding an adventurous element to your visit.
• Great photo opportunities – The scenery from the top is perfect for panoramic photos and Instagram-worthy shots.

What to Expect on the Hike

• Duration: About 20–30 minutes from the parking area to the top.
• Difficulty: Moderate – The trail is steep, rocky, and sometimes requires using your hands to climb over boulders.
• Trail Conditions: The path is not well-marked but is relatively easy to follow.
• Recommended Gear:
  • Good hiking shoes or sneakers (avoid flip-flops).
  • Plenty of water (it gets hot quickly).
  • Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning views.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) – Best for catching the sunrise and avoiding the midday heat.
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) – Ideal for sunset views and cooler temperatures.
• Avoid midday (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) as it can be very hot, making the hike more difficult.

How to Get to John-Suwan Viewpoint

• By Motorbike or Taxi: Ride to Freedom Beach parking area, which is the starting point of the trail.
• By Foot: If you’re staying in Chalok Baan Kao, you can walk to the starting point in 15–20 minutes.
• Hiking Start Point: Near Freedom Beach Resort, where you’ll see signs pointing towards the viewpoint.

Nearby Attractions

• Freedom Beach – A small, quiet beach with clear water and great snorkeling, located at the base of the viewpoint.
• Shark Bay – A stunning bay known for its snorkeling and occasional blacktip reef shark sightings.
• Taa Toh Beach – A peaceful beach nearby, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Final Thoughts

John-Suwan Viewpoint is a must-visit on Koh Tao for anyone looking for stunning panoramic views and a bit of adventure. The short but rewarding hike leads to one of the most breathtaking spots on the island, making it perfect for photography, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience Koh Tao’s natural beauty from above.