A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kaikoura vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a biologically diverse, unique, and nature-oriented town. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Kaikoura and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Kaikoura 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 nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Kaikoura attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Kaikoura and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Kaikoura is famous for its local Sperm Whale population, abundance of marine life, and local crayfish (lobster) recipes.

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

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

Plenty of people visit the reasonable sights and museums in both Kaikoura and Koh Pha Ngan.

Kaikoura offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There aren't many museums in the area, but it's worth learning more about the region's history with a visit to Kaikoura Museum.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kaikoura is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kaikoura makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood lovers will be in heaven in this town! There are many local, freshly caught favorites such as cod, mussels, and crayfish (which is actually lobster). You'll find plenty of casual eateries, including an authentic American diner.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Koh Pha Ngan just to party. 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 Kaikoura. This is a small town so the nightlife scene is limited, but there are a few restaurants with bars around town.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its resorts. However, Kaikoura is not a resort destination.

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.

Kaikoura is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kaikoura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Kaikoura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

Kaikoura is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many black pebble beaches in the area, which are great for wildlife spotting, but not so good for swimming. Gooch's Beach is one of the most popular, and it's sandier than many of the other beaches. South Bay is another popular area to visit.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Kaikoura and Koh Pha Ngan both have great trails.

Kaikoura is a popular spot for hiking. There are many coastal walks in the area that will take you through a variety of landscapes. This is also a great way to see the many diverse types of wildlife throughout the peninsula.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kaikoura is very good for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Kaikoura is a great destination for shopping. There are local shops where you can pick up some interesting products that are unique to the area.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Kaikoura is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Kaikoura is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids who love animals will appreciate all of the wildlife in the area. This is one of the best places in the country to see dolphins, whales, and seals. There are world class whale watching trips as well as opportunities to swim with the dolphins and get close to the seals. There is also kayaking, a coastal train, and even sheep shearing. Minigolf is also a fun activity in the area.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Kaikoura is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Kaikoura frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The town is all about wildlife, so if whale watching trips, dolphin spotting, and experiencing amazing local wildlife is your thing, then this is your spot! There are also beautiful coastal sights with a dramatic mountain backdrop.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kaikoura. There are a decent number of hostels in the area and plenty of fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a moderate party island for its public transit. However, Kaikoura is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Kaikoura. The town is very small and there is no real public transit in the area.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Kaikoura and Koh Pha Ngan both are nice when exploring on foot.

Kaikoura is a somewhat walkable place. There are many coastal walks in the area, which is a great way to soak up the beauty and see the wildlife. The town itself is small and most of the accommodation is along Beach Road, so it's relatively easy to reach places on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

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

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

How long in Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kaikoura, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Kaikoura, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this nature-oriented town 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.

The beautiful party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kaikoura is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the biologically diverse destination of Kaikoura. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Pha Ngan, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kaikoura is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This party island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaikoura and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Kaikoura is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kaikoura is in Pacific and Koh Pha Ngan is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Kaikoura would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kaikoura or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kaikoura. When comparing the sizes of Kaikoura 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.