Phuket Viewpoints: 20 Breathtaking Views

Phuket is a top choice for a trip to Thailand because the country’s largest island has a lot to offer. There are plenty of temples, markets, beaches, and more that you can explore with our Phuket tips and attractions. You will also find many viewpoints in Phuket that you can visit. Some are located in the main areas like Patong or Karon, while others are in Phuket Town or even off the beaten path at Cape Panwa.

Phuket from Above: 20 Fantastic Phuket Viewpoints

During a short vacation in Phuket, you may not be able to see them all. But we want to give you a selection of 20 Phuket viewpoints so you can make the most of your trip. All these spots are spread across the island, and depending on where you’re staying, some of them are sure to be nearby.

How to get to Phuket

There are many ways to get to Phuket, the most chosen one is the airplane. Phuket airport is approached by several airlines within Thailand, but also by flights from Europe, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and more. All flights as well as duration, connections and prices are best compared on Skyscanner.

Furthermore, you can travel by bus from many different places in Thailand, such as Krabi, Bangkok, Khao Lak etc. or just take the boat to Phuket. There are e.g. ferries from Koh Phi Phi or Koh Yao Yai. You can find more bus and boat connections on 12go.asia. There you can also book tickets directly. A train to Phuket does currently not exist.

Accommodation in Phuket – Our Hotel Recommendation

The JonoX Phuket Karon Hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from Karon Beach. It is a very new and modern hotel with a beautiful rooftop swimming pool. The rooms are equipped with all amenities, and there are also family rooms with an additional bunk bed (ideal for 4 people) available. Furthermore, a simple breakfast buffet is offered, and there is a small room with toys for children at the reception. A great starting point to explore Karon itself without a scooter or car.

Phuket offers a wide range of accommodations for various budgets. If JonoX doesn’t suit you, feel free to check out other hotels here. There will definitely be the right one for you.

1. Khao Rang Viewpoint

The Khao Rang Viewpoint, also known as the Phuket City Viewpoint, is located on Khao Rang Hill. Surrounded by greenery, there is a viewing platform here that offers a spectacular view of Phuket Town, Chalong Bay, and the turquoise sea.

The easiest way to get there is by scooter or car. Alternatively, you can walk or take a taxi. Along the way to the top, you’ll find several cafes and restaurants that are perfect for a break. Once at the top, there is free parking, and entry is also free. You will usually find a few visitors enjoying the view. For us, it’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints and one of the best tips from Phuket Town.

2. Monkey Hill Viewpoint

The Monkey Hill Viewpoint is located on Khao To Sae Hill, one of the highest hills in the city. It gets its name from the many macaque monkeys that live there. As a visitor, you should be a bit cautious, as the monkeys often steal from bags, thinking there’s food inside. You can drive up the hill to the parking area, but the last part must be done on foot.

There are several viewpoints along the way, and at the top, you’ll find an impressive panoramic view of the city, the sea, and the islands in the distance – at least on a clear day. A visit is free and especially popular in the morning or late afternoon when it’s not too hot. There are also a few cafes and restaurants on Monkey Hill to provide you with food and drinks for a refreshment.

3. Wat Charoen Samanakit (Wat Charoen Samanakij)

This Phuket viewpoint is still one of the hidden gems, as you will rarely encounter visitors there. The Wat Charoen Samanakij temple is located on a hill behind the Phuket Court, which is why it is also called Wat Lang San, meaning “behind the court.” By the way, when you pronounce the temple’s name, it sounds more like Wat Charoen Samanakit – translations from Thai are not always straightforward in their spelling.

The temple was built in 2012, making it relatively new and still unknown to many tourists. You can find the entrance on Soi To Chae, which leads to Monkey Hill. The temple spans nine levels, accessible by stairs and pathways. The ordination hall is located on the highest, ninth level, where you can also drive your own vehicle. A highlight of the temple complex is the beautiful view from the Chedi platform overlooking Phuket Town.

4. Big Buddha

Built in 2004, the Big Buddha of Phuket has quickly become a landmark of the island. It stands 45 meters tall and majestically overlooks the island from Nakkerd Hill. You can see it from many parts of the island. It’s open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, and it’s absolutely worth a visit.

In addition to the large, white Buddha statue, there are many smaller statues scattered throughout the grounds. There are also shops to buy souvenirs, or monks who can give you a blessing. Another highlight is the view of the surrounding landscape, Chalong, and the sea. A truly beautiful view of Phuket and one of the island’s highest points.

5. Promthep Cape

This is perhaps the most famous of the Phuket viewpoints. Promthep Cape, known in Thai as Laem Promthep, attracts crowds of visitors every day. It can get very busy, especially at sunset, with both locals and tourists alike.

The picturesque scenery, with the small island of Koh Man off the coast, offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. The sun sets into the sea on the horizon, giving way to the night. On-site, you can also visit a lighthouse, a small maritime museum, or several elephant statues.

By the way, if you’re up for it, you can even walk down to the very tip of the cape. The path is well-trodden and easy to manage. Most visitors don’t do this, so you’ll likely have the spot all to yourself.

6. Promthep Monastery

The Promthep Monastery, also known as Wat Phra Prom, is a Buddhist temple near Promthep Cape. It is often overlooked as it’s relatively hidden, and only a few tourists find their way here. Built on a hillside, the complex offers a view of Promthep Cape from a different angle.

As a visitor, you can explore the temple complex for free and see the statue of the Buddhist monk Luang Pu Supha, who is highly revered in Thailand. The temple offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, along with a fantastic view of Promthep Cape from a slightly different perspective.

7. Black Rock Viewpoint

The Black Rock Viewpoint offers a stunning view of the bay of Naiharn and Promthep Cape. It is moderately hidden, but the view makes it absolutely worth the visit. To reach the viewpoint, you’ll have to take at least a short hike.

To get there, take the entrance to Nui Beach between Rawai and Kata. Follow the road toward Nui Beach, and then continue left uphill. The roads are partially in poor condition, so it might be better to walk. Once at the top, you can park your vehicle and continue into the jungle.

Upon arriving at the Black Rock Viewpoint, you’ll be rewarded for the somewhat challenging journey. There are usually few people around, and the view is simply fantastic. Take photos, enjoy the peace and the breeze. Let this highlight simply sink in.

8. Windmill Hill

Windmill Hill, also known as the Ya Nui Viewpoint, offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape, Ya Nui Beach, part of Naiharn Beach, and the sea. The name comes from the wind turbine you see on the hill. You can’t miss the viewpoint along the coastal route.

It’s usually quiet here, but it can get a bit busier around sunset, although most visitors head to Promthep Cape. You might also see paragliders practicing or launching from the hill.

9. Karon Viewpoint

Khao Sam Haad, as Karon Viewpoint is sometimes called, is one of the most famous Phuket viewpoints. It is located just south of Kata, along the road heading up the hills toward Rawai. You can’t miss, it as it’s right by the road.

The name Karon Viewpoint is a bit misleading, as it’s actually located in Kata. However, we mention it in our Karon tips. There is some parking available on-site. You can visit the viewpoint for free at any time, including sunrise or sunset. The view is fantastic and stretches across the three bays and beaches of Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon.

10. Wat Doi Thep Nimit Monastery

A lesser-known Phuket viewpoint is the Wat Doi Thep Nimit Monastery. It is somewhat hidden in the hills above Patong. However, you can spot the white pagoda from many places, and it’s worth a visit. Not only does it offer a great view of Patong, but the temple grounds are also beautifully designed.

The entrance is easy to miss. Right next to the Chinese shrine, if you’re driving from Patong towards Phuket Town, you need to turn off in the middle of the hills. Follow the road uphill, and you’ll end up at Wat Doi Thep Nimit Monastery. You can find out more in our Patong tips.

11. Sea Sky Cafe

Staying in Patong for the next Phuket viewpoint, it is also located in the hills above Patong, and it’s one of our favorite spots in the tourist hotspot. The small Sea Sky Cafe is more of a restaurant than a cafe and is usually not very busy. Nevertheless, the food is really delicious in a relaxed atmosphere. And one thing we have to say is that, despite the location, the prices are really affordable and fair.

The highlight here is the 180-degree panoramic view of Patong Bay. You can have something to eat and drink while taking amazing photos. The view is especially worth it at sunset, when Patong is bathed in a sea of lights. It’s still one of our hidden gems that you shouldn’t miss.

12. Kalim Viewpoint

The Kalim Viewpoint sits high up in the mountains and is accessible via a more or less drivable road. To get there, turn off the coastal road right next to the Orchid Hotel & Spa onto Prabaramee Soi 7. Now drive for about 2 kilometers inland, always heading uphill. If you are experienced at riding a scooter, the ride should be no problem.

Otherwise, many visitors enjoy using the path for hiking. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by a welcome sign, and you can enjoy the impressive view of Kalim Bay. There is also a rental place where you can do ATV tours and ride through the mountains. A real adventure.

Tip: If you’re in the mood for more hiking, there are longer trails, such as from the Kathu Waterfall. Here, you can find a helpful overview of hiking trails.

13. Baanrai I Talay Cafe Phuket

Hidden in the mountains of Kamala, this Phuket viewpoint is especially popular with locals. The Baanrai I Talay Cafe Phuket is a charming farmhouse-style cafe situated on a hill. Many of the ingredients for the shakes or food are grown here and harvested by the staff throughout the day.

They serve Thai food, cakes, coffee, and other drinks. Order something tasty and sit as far forward as possible or on the lower platform. From there, you’ll have the best views of Kamala Bay. A real recommendation from us, even though it’s already quite popular with locals.

14. Kamala Beach Viewpoint

The Kamala Beach Viewpoint is a hidden gem along Phuket’s coastal road. We would even call it a hidden gem despite its obvious location. If you leave Kamala heading north, you’ll find it right on the left side of the road.

A quick stop is worthwhile, as we’ve been there several times and never with other visitors. From this Phuket viewpoint, you can overlook the entire beach of Kamala. Of course, you also have a beautiful panoramic view of Phuket’s hills and the ocean. A great photo location!

15. Laem Singh Viewpoint

On the coastal road, very picturesquely located, you will find the Laem Singh Viewpoint between the towns of Kamala and Surin. It is difficult to overlook, and since it is so evident to all, there are usually other tourists nearby. Nevertheless, this doesn’t detract from its beauty.

From the small hut on-site, you have a spectacular view of Laem Singh Beach, the surrounding hills and mountains, and Kamala Bay. This Phuket viewpoint is also perfect for a stop during a scooter tour to take a break. You will find shade and seating options here.

16. Surin Viewpoint

Between the two Phuket beaches Surin Beach and Pansea Beach lies this viewpoint. The Phuket viewpoint is somewhat hidden and is currently under construction, but you can still access it. In the future, a skywalk is planned to be built there.

To reach the Surin Beach Viewpoint, you can either climb over the rocks from the north or take the path at the northern end of Surin Beach towards the road and then go through the mentioned construction site. In the future, access will, of course, be much easier. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view of the Andaman Sea and Surin Beach through the palm trees. The view towards Pansea Beach with the exclusive The Surin Hotel is slightly obstructed.

17. Koh Siray Temple

On the island of Koh Siray lies the temple of the same name, Koh Siray Temple. The temple is rarely visited by tourists and is particularly popular with Burmese people. This is because there is a replica of the famous Golden Rock from Myanmar here.

In addition to many other statues of Buddha, Wat Koh Siray, as the temple is called in Thai, offers a beautiful view. You can see Phuket Town, the surrounding islands, and enjoy panoramic views of the small island of Koh Siray.

18. Kao Khad Views Point

Kao Khad Views Point is often confused with the Kao Khad Views Tower (see next point). However, it is located directly on Soi Ao Yon Kao Khad, which takes you along the coastline of the Cape Panwa peninsula. The viewpoint is essentially a small rest area. Therefore, you will also find some parking spaces and small huts providing shade.

From here, you can overlook the coastline and Chalong Bay, and in the distance, you can even spot the Big Buddha on the hills. Especially on sunny days, this is a wonderful viewpoint where the water shines in the most vibrant turquoise.

19. Kao Khad Views Tower

The view from Kao Khad Views Tower is truly beautiful and impressed us. However, this Phuket viewpoint is far off the usual tourist routes. During our visit, we were even completely alone on-site. The Kao Khad Views Tower is located on the side arm of Phuket, where Cape Panwa is also situated.

You can visit the Kao Khad Views Tower daily from 6.00 AM to 6.30 PM for free. To reach the top level, you need to climb about 200 steps, but it’s easy to manage. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of Phang Nga Bay, Phuket Town, Koh Sirey, and the ocean. A wonderfully peaceful area that we highly recommend.

20. Cape Panwa Viewpoint

The Cape Panwa Viewpoint is usually not very busy. It’s very remote, located right next to the Phuket Aquarium at the southern tip of the peninsula. From here, you can enjoy a view of Chalong Bay with the island of Koh Lon in the foreground. The latter is often visited for day trips.

A visit is especially popular at sunset, when you can watch the sun disappear behind Phuket’s mountains. You can easily reach this Phuket viewpoint by car or scooter. However, we believe it’s only worth a visit if you combine it with the Phuket Aquarium. Otherwise, the Cape Panwa Viewpoint is quite far off the beaten path.

Phuket: Tours and Tickets

Do you prefer to travel with a guide who knows the area very well? Then we recommend a guided tour with a local. This way you can get to know Phuket in a completely different way. GetYourGuide offers a wide selection of exciting tours for Phuket.

Have you already visited one of the Phuket viewpoints? Which one is the most beautiful viewpoint on the island for you? Let us know in the comments.