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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Bali?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Bali 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a relaxed, friendly, and idyllic area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Khao Lak and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Bali?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bali. Although Khao Lak and Bali are popular destinations, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and shopping, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its museums. Bali is more touristy than Khao Lak and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Khao Lak different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Bali?

Khao Lak is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Khao Lak offers a few options for museum-goers. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Bali? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bali have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Nightlife?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Bali has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Resorts?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

Bali is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Bali are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bali. 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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Bali?

Bali is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Bali are superb to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bali is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Bali are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bali is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Is Khao Lak or Bali Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Khao Lak and Bali.

You'll find some public transit in Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

While Bali offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Khao Lak or Bali a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Bali both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

Bali is generally not a very walkable area. 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 Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Bali?

Both Khao Lak and Bali have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bali than Khao Lak. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful island of Bali offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Khao Lak or Bali?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Bali is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Khao Lak or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. This area offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bali, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed area of Khao Lak. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bali is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bali has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Bali?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Bali, 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 Khao Lak or Bali?

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 Khao Lak or Bali in the Summer?

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

April to September in Bali is the dry season. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Bali. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Bali during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 253 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Bali. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Bali in the Autumn?

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

Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season. October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Bali. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Bali. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 266 hours of full sun.

In October, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Bali. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Bali in the Winter?

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

The rainy season in Bali is October to March. In January, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Bali. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Bali during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Bali in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Bali in the Spring?

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

November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. April to September is the dry season in Bali. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Bali. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Bali. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 226 hours of full sun.

In the spring, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Bali. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Khao Lak