Viewpoints — Surat Thani

A viewpoint located right on the beach rather than in the hills. It isn’t very high, but it offers a great view of the sea and coastal cliffs. There’s also a small, semi‑abandoned pagoda. You can see only a sliver of the sunset from here. Although it’s not the prettiest spot, it attracts quite a few people who come to eat, hang out with friends or read a book.

All roads heading into the island’s interior have very steep slopes, which means you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and neighbouring islands just a few kilometres from the highway. One of the best spots for that is the Maenam Soi 7 viewpoint tucked into the hills. It’s barely equipped — there are only a few chairs, and they’re often full of ants. You won’t get spectacular sunsets here, but the view is very wide. The road to the viewpoint is sharply inclined and can be difficult for inexperienced drivers.

Nathon's waterfront offers some of the most beautiful sunsets. In the evening there is a strong low tide near the pier; children play on the exposed sandbanks, Thais walk their dogs and street musicians perform. It's always busy here on holidays.

On Mae Island the crater of an extinct volcano is filled with turquoise water — the lake known as Thale Nai. The island also has a viewpoint offering views over the park and the volcanic crater.

A viewpoint that doubles as a parking area with views of the sunset. Every evening about a dozen tourists gather here, mesmerized as the huge red sun slips into the sea. The viewpoint is quite high and the descent is very steep — be careful with your brakes.