Viewpoints · On the hill road between Kata Noi and Nai Harn
Karon Viewpoint
A roadside viewpoint above Kata Noi, Kata and Karon: three bays in a row, free to visit at any hour.
Access
By road
Entry
Free
Time to allow
A short stop by the road
Best time
Late afternoon or early morning
Why go
For the classic view of the west coast: the three bays of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon lined up one behind the other. It is a stop on the way south, not a destination.
What you will find
Despite its name, the viewpoint stands above Kata, not Karon: Kata Noi is directly below, Kata next, and Karon furthest away to the north. It used to be called Kata Viewpoint.
According to one guide, there is a shaded gazebo and a couple of drink and snack stalls a few steps below, and the light is best between about 4 and 5 pm; early morning is quieter.
Getting there
By road: continue south past Kata and Kata Noi on the hill road towards Nai Harn. The viewpoint is right by the road, with parking.
Before you go
According to one guide, the car park fills up in the late afternoon in the high season: come before about 4 pm.
Not for you at midday if you come for photos: according to the same guide, the light is least interesting then.
Where this place leads
Common questions
Is Karon Viewpoint free?
Yes. It is free and open at all hours, according to two guides.
Why is it called Karon Viewpoint if it is above Kata?
It used to be called Kata Viewpoint. It stands above Kata and Kata Noi; Karon is the furthest of the three bays in the view.