Samet Nangshe Viewpoint Phuket
A breathtaking hilltop viewpoint in Phuket offering iconic vistas of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts, famous from James Bond films.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint Phuket
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking hilltop viewpoint in Phuket offering iconic vistas of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts, famous from James Bond films.
"Waking up to this sunrise view was a DREAM!"
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the best light and fewer crowds. It's a truly magical experience!
🥾 Shuttle or Hike?
Choose between a shuttle or a steep hike to reach the viewpoint. Wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Phang Nga Bay
Main viewpoint
Witness the breathtaking vista of limestone karsts jutting out of emerald waters, a scene famously featured in James Bond films.

Sunrise Spectacle
Main viewpoint
Experience the magic of the sun painting the sky with vibrant colors as it rises over the iconic karsts.

Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel
Adjacent to viewpoint
Enjoy unparalleled views from this eco-hotel, offering a luxurious stay with the bay as your backdrop.

Bay View Cafe
Near viewpoint
Sip on coffee or a refreshing drink while soaking in the stunning scenery from this elevated cafe.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Iconic View
Getting There: Shuttle or Hike?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the best light and fewer crowds. It's a truly magical experience!
🥾 Shuttle or Hike?
Choose between a shuttle or a steep hike to reach the viewpoint. Wear comfortable shoes!
☕ Coffee with a View
Grab a coffee at the Bay View Cafe for a relaxed appreciation of the scenery.
📸 Photography Paradise
Bring your camera! The views are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the best light and fewer crowds. It's a truly magical experience!
🥾 Shuttle or Hike?
Choose between a shuttle or a steep hike to reach the viewpoint. Wear comfortable shoes!
☕ Coffee with a View
Grab a coffee at the Bay View Cafe for a relaxed appreciation of the scenery.
📸 Photography Paradise
Bring your camera! The views are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🏨 Consider Staying
For an unforgettable experience, book a room at Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay, often describing it as a 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience, especially during sunrise. The convenience of the shuttle and the option to stay at the boutique hotel are also highlights. Some find the hike challenging and note that it can get crowded during peak times.
"Tickets to reach the summit are 90 baht ($2) for each way truck ride or 30 baht ($1) for a self-guided hike. I highly recommend taking the truck as the terrain is quite challenging. The 3km journey is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, ocean, and numerous islands. Once at the top, you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms, a restaurant, and a coffee shop."
Jerry Napombhejara
"Must visit! The pictures do not do it justice! Please don't base your decision on pictures you see!
Absolutely must visit spot! We started early morning at 5 to reach here by 6:30 and witness the scenery during sunrise! The pictures do not do it justice! This is basically the Ha Long Bay of Vietnam on land!!
If you have the time please stay at one of the nearby hotels is camping sites. Totally worth it!
Please do visit as the view is not something you will see anywhere else in the world!"
Prateek KC
"The best decision to meet the sunrise in this amazing place. It's a place of power! Entrance is 80
Baht and you will be taken to the highest point. There is excellent coffee on site for 30 baht. There are places to stay overnight and meet the sunrise on site. I fell in love with this magical place! I recommend it! ❤️"
YAGOMAGIC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Samet Nangshe Viewpoint from Phuket is by hiring a taxi or a private car. The drive takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can join a tour that includes transportation from Phuket.
Public transport options are limited. While you can take a bus towards Phang Nga town, you'll likely need to arrange a local taxi or songthaew from there to the viewpoint. Hiring a car or joining a tour is generally more convenient.
From the parking area, you have two options: a steep hike up a concrete path or a shuttle service. The hike can be challenging, especially in the heat, while the shuttle is a quicker and easier option.
You can drive to the designated parking area at the base of the viewpoint. From there, you'll need to use the shuttle service or hike up to the actual viewpoint.
Yes, several tour operators offer day trips from Phuket that include Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, often combined with visits to James Bond Island and other attractions in Phang Nga Bay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically a small entrance fee for the viewpoint itself, and an additional fee for the shuttle service if you choose not to hike. Prices can vary, so it's good to have some Thai Baht on hand.
The viewpoint is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check current hours before your visit, especially if you plan to catch the sunrise or sunset.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the parking area or the shuttle station. Advance booking is generally not required for the viewpoint itself, but tours may need to be booked ahead.
There is no admission fee to enter the Bay View Cafe or the Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel grounds, but you are expected to purchase food or drinks if you visit these establishments.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely advertised. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival for any available concessions.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise is incredibly popular for photographers, offering soft, golden light and dramatic skies. Sunset also provides beautiful colors. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panorama. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots to ensure sharpness. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Drone regulations can change, and it's always best to check local rules before flying. Currently, there are no explicit mentions of drone bans, but be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Yes, the hotel offers stunning photo opportunities from its rooms and common areas, providing a unique perspective of Phang Nga Bay.
While Samet Nangshe Viewpoint offers a broader panorama of Phang Nga Bay, the iconic 'James Bond Island' (Khao Phing Kan) is visible in the distance as part of the overall landscape.
🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining
The most convenient option is the Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel, offering rooms with incredible bay views. There are also guesthouses and hotels in nearby Phang Nga town.
There is a cafe at the viewpoint (Bay View Cafe) where you can enjoy drinks and light snacks. The Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel also has a restaurant.
Yes, guests not staying at the hotel can typically dine at its restaurant, though it's advisable to check their policy or make a reservation.
For more budget-friendly meals, you'll need to head back towards Phang Nga town, where you can find local restaurants and street food stalls.
The Bay View Cafe usually offers a selection of beverages like coffee and tea, as well as some light snacks and pastries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
❤️ Couples & Honeymooners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to the Top: Shuttle vs. Hike
Many visitors recommend the shuttle for its ease, especially if visiting during the hottest parts of the day. However, some travelers enjoy the challenge and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing the hike. Consider your fitness level and the weather conditions when making your choice. Regardless of your decision, the effort is well worth the reward of the spectacular view awaiting you at the summit.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
Sunset also offers dramatic skies and a different, yet equally stunning, perspective. For those interested in capturing the iconic 'James Bond Island' scenery, Samet Nangshe provides a panoramic view that includes these famous formations in the distance. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the vastness of the bay, and a tripod can be invaluable for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset to ensure sharp, clear images.
Beyond the main viewpoint, the Samet Nangshe Boutique Hotel and the Bay View Cafe offer unique vantage points for photography. The hotel rooms themselves provide incredible photo opportunities with the bay as a backdrop. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find yourself taking far more photos than you initially planned!
The Samet Nangshe Experience: Beyond the View
Adjacent to the viewpoint, the Bay View Cafe provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a coffee or a light meal while soaking in the scenery. It's a perfect spot to unwind after the journey up or to simply linger and appreciate the natural beauty. For those looking for a more comprehensive tour, options exist that combine a visit to Samet Nangshe with other famous Phang Nga Bay attractions like James Bond Island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit