A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Koh Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a spiritual, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Bali and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Bali and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its museums, while Bali attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bali is famous for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties.

How is Bali different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Pha Ngan and Bali. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a moderate party island for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Koh Pha Ngan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Both Bali and Koh Pha Ngan are fantastic when it comes to partying.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-see party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Bali is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali is not to be missed. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Bali and Koh Pha Ngan are fantastic choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

The beaches in Koh Pha Ngan are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

You'll find very good hiking in both Bali and Koh Pha Ngan.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Bali is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Bali is an extremely popular place for shoppers. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Bali is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bali is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Bali is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Koh Pha Ngan are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Pha Ngan, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Bali, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Bali or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Bali?

How long in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Bali or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Koh Pha Ngan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bali, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bali than Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Koh Pha Ngan if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bali.

One day in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Bali is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Bali, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the high energy destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Bali is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The party-oriented party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Bali is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bali would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bali than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Koh Pha Ngan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Koh Pha Ngan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

April to September in Bali is the dry season. Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bali as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. October and November in Koh Pha Ngan is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Bali usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Bali is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Bali is October to March. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. In January, Bali usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Bali is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Bali or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Bali during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

April to September is the dry season in Bali. Bali usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Bali is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Bali