A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Hat Yai vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a lively, festive, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a high energy, funky, and beautiful party island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hat Yai and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan than Hat Yai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Pha Ngan is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hat Yai is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for the Full Moon Parties. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Hat Yai is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

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

Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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 Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. 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.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Is Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Hat Yai is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

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 Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan as a family destination.

Hat Yai is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Koh Pha Ngan is not always a place people visit with their families. 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 Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good party island for couples to visit. 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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular party island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Both Hat Yai and Koh Pha Ngan offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

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 Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable party island. 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.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hat Yai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hat Yai 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 Koh Pha Ngan.

One day in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Hat Yai, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this festive city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This party island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hat Yai is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hat Yai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Pha Ngan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hat Yai is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Koh Pha Ngan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Bangkok.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hat Yai and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Koh Pha Ngan is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Koh Pha Ngan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Pha Ngan than you might in Hat Yai.

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

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

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

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hat Yai in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

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

May to December in Hat Yai 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. Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Hat Yai is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

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

The dry season in Hat Yai is January to April. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In January, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Hat Yai is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Hat Yai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

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

January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Hat Yai 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 the spring, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hat Yai in April average around 30°C (85°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Hat Yai