Best Viewpoint – John Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao, Thailand

Best Viewpoint – John Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao, Thailand

A useful guide to the John Suwan viewpoint on the southern tip of Koh Tao island. Find out how to get here and what to expect!

Koh Tao is one of those islands that seems to have it all. If you're looking for viewpoints, John Suwan Viewpoint is one of the best.

Offering similar panoramic views to the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint, John Suwan looks out over both the east and west coasts of Koh Tao. Located at the very southern tip of the island, this viewpoint offers a unique view that should be on everyone's list of top things to do on Koh Tao.

How to get to John Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao?

Those coming from the main tourist area of ​​Sairee or Mae Head will need to take a moped to Freedom Beach. It shouldn't take more than 15 minutes to reach this beach from almost anywhere on Koh Tao. The best way to reach the viewpoint is to park your bike at the top of the Freedom Beach Carpark and then walk up the path to the John Suwan Viewpoint.

Once you reach the parking lot, walk past the resort, past the Freedom Beach signs and follow the dirt road that heads left. Follow this road until you reach a small tent set up by the property owner.

John Suwan viewpoint fee

Since this viewpoint is on private property, the owner charges a fee. It costs 15 baht per person to reach the top of the viewpoint.

Hike to the top of the viewpoint

The climb is short, just 500 meters and should only take about 10 minutes. However, as you probably already know, hiking even short distances on Koh Tao can be very hot.

There are also parts that require a bit of crawling. There are some ropes for those who need an extra hand to climb up the rocks. However, the viewpoint can be reached by any physically disabled person.

You might also come across a pack of dogs living in the countryside. Don't worry, these guys are friendly but become extremely territorial when they see or hear other street dogs. I would also be quite territorial with such an epic point of view.

RELATED: The best things to do on Koh Tao

Freedom Beach

Since you're already thinking about visiting the viewpoint, consider checking out the neighboring Freedom Beach. This is my personal favorite beach on Koh Tao. It is usually very quiet, has crystal clear water and hammocks already set up for free use.

FULL BLOG BOST: Check out the list of 8 best beaches in Koh Tao.

The view from John Suwan viewpoint

The view from John Suwan Viewpoint is spectacular. The seemingly endless row of palm trees in the central crater area reveals an almost perfectly symmetrical coastline. Look out for turtles swimming down in Shark Bay.

See also: Find out how to get to the abandoned resort on Koh Tao

Where does the name John Suwan come from?

This viewpoint was discovered by John Suwan, a local landowner, Mr. Suwan, and his friend; John. Hence the name; John Suwan Viewpoint. It is now one of the most popular viewing points on Koh Tao for those looking to leave Sairee.

Where to Stay on Koh Tao – Accommodation Guide

There are several options for travelers who want to stay on the island of Koh Tao. To save you time, I've listed some of the best options below.

HOSTEL RIGHT NEXT TO MAE HEAD PIER FOR $6/NIGHT - BLACK WOOD HOSTELBlack Wood Hostel is one of the top rated hostels on Koh Tao and is just a 5 minute walk from Mae Head Pier. This is the perfect place to stay if you're arriving on a later boat or looking for a central hostel close to the pier.

BEST HOSTEL FOR BACKPACKERS IN SAIREE FOR UNDER $10/NIGHT – BP HOSTELBP Hostel offers shared accommodation options, all of which include air conditioning for the hotter nights on Koh Tao. It is also in the heart of Sairee and close to the beach, Smile Mart and the Koh Tao pub crawl.

TOP GUESTHOUSE ON KOH TAO – NIRVANA GUESTHOUSEThis guesthouse has the best reviews on Koh Tao. It is also very close to Mae Head Pier and several world-class diving schools. It is also another budget-friendly option for couples or solo backpackers.
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MORE KOH TAO BLOGS

I hope this quick guide to John Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao has inspired you to grab a set of wheels and chase the views! Check out the list below for more Koh Tao guides or start with either this guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao or this list of the best beaches on Koh Tao.

Secret freediving spot on Koh Tao

Where to swim with blacktip reef sharks in Koh TaoHow to get to Abandoned Resort on Koh Tao

BEST secret sunset spot on Koh Tao

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