Viewpoints · South of Kata Noi, above Nai Harn
Black Rock Viewpoint
A rocky hilltop above Nai Harn, reached by a dirt road and a short, steep climb on foot, with a view over the bay and Promthep Cape.
Access
On foot from the road
Time to allow
A short, steep climb from where you park
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, not at midday
Why go
For a view of Nai Harn and Promthep Cape from above, with fewer people than at the roadside viewpoints, if you do not mind a dirt road and a steep few minutes on foot.
What you will find
The viewpoint is a rocky hilltop, called Pa Hin Dam in Thai. It looks down over Nai Harn bay towards Promthep Cape.
There is little here but the view. Photographers come at sunrise and sunset, according to one guide; otherwise it is usually quiet.
Getting there
From Karon Viewpoint, continue south towards Nai Harn and turn off on the road to Nui Beach. A dirt road, in poor condition in places, leads uphill; park at the top and follow a small, steep trail, about 300 m long according to one guide. The same guide finds a scooter copes better than a car, and warns that the small wooden sign at the start of the trail can go missing.
Before you go
Not for you if you are unsteady on steep ground, or in flip-flops: the climb is short but steep.
The midday sun is hot on a clear day: bring water, and avoid the middle of the day.
None of the sources we read mentions an entry fee.
Where this place leads
Common questions
How do I get to Black Rock Viewpoint?
Turn off the coast road south of Karon Viewpoint onto the road to Nui Beach, follow the dirt road uphill, park, then climb a short, steep trail on foot.
Is the Black Rock Viewpoint walk hard?
It is short but steep: about 300 m according to one guide. Wear proper shoes and bring water.