Sunset at John-Suwan Viewpoint to say Goodbye to 2025

Koh Tao on New Year's Eve is electric. Sairee Beach will already be thumping with bass, and fire dancers will be preparing their midnight shows. But before you dive into the neon chaos to welcome 2026, there is a quieter, more profound way to close the chapter on 2025.

You need to get high above the island. You need to sweat a little for the reward. You need to be at the John-Suwan Viewpoint for the final sunset of the year.

Here is why this iconic southern peak is the perfect place to say your goodbyes to the last 365 days.

The View: A Panorama of Two Bays

John-Suwan isn't just any viewpoint; it’s the viewpoint of Koh Tao. Located at the southernmost tip of the island, it offers a stunning 180-degree panorama.

Looking out, you see a perfect spine of land separating two turquoise bays: Chalok Baan Kao Bay on the left and Thian Og Bay (Shark Bay) on the right. It is the most photographed spot on the island for a reason.

On New Year's Eve, as the sun drops toward the horizon on the west, the entire sky over this southern tip explodes into gradients of orange, purple, and deep blue. It feels like you are standing at the edge of the world, the perfect setting for end-of-year reflection.

The Reality of the Hike (Earn Your Sunset)

This isn't a paved stroll. To get the best view of 2025’s finale, you have to work for it.

• The Trail: It’s short (about 15-20 minutes from the parking area) but intense. It involves steep dirt paths, scrambling over boulders, and using ropes to pull yourself up the final section.
• The Heat: Even at 5:00 PM, it will be humid. You will arrive at the top sweaty and out of breath.
• The Reward: That feeling of accomplishment makes the cold beer you packed taste infinitely better at the summit.

NYE Survival Guide: Tips for Dec 31st

Because this is arguably the best spot on the island, you won't be alone on New Year's Eve.

1. Timing is Everything: Sunset on Dec 31st is around 6:10 PM. Please don't arrive at 6:00 PM. The small rocky outcrop at the top gets crowded fast.

• Pro Tip: Aim to start hiking by 5:00 PM - 5:15 PM. This gives you time to handle the entrance fee, do the hike without rushing, and secure a good rock to sit on before the main show begins.

2. Footwear Matters: Please, do not attempt this in flimsy flip-flops. You will see people doing it, and you will also see them slipping. Wear trainers or strapped sandals.

3. The Entrance Fee: There is usually a small fee (around 50-100 THB) to access the land leading to the viewpoint. Bring cash.

4. BYO Celebration: There are no bars at the summit. Pack plenty of water and perhaps a couple of Changs or Leos in a backpack to toast the sunset.

The Descent (Crucial Safety Warning)

This is the most important part. Once the sun sets, it gets dark fast in the jungle. The path that was tricky on the way up is downright dangerous on the way down in the dark.

Don't rely on phone flashlights: They aren't strong enough for the uneven terrain.

Leave at twilight: Start heading down as soon as the sun disappears below the horizon, while there is still ambient light. Don't wait for total darkness.

Conclusion

Watching the sun dip below the Gulf of Thailand from John-Suwan is a powerful way to center yourself before the madness of the NYE parties begins. It’s a moment of gratitude for the year past, and excitement for the one ahead. See you at the top!