A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Beijing for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Beijing?

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 Beijing 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 idyllic, serene, and laid back area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beijing

Beijing is a historic, massive, and jam-packed city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Khao Lak and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Beijing?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beijing than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beijing is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Khao Lak and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Khao Lak different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beijing 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 Beijing?

Beijing is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Beijing that are not to be missed. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Beijing is an amazing city 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 Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

In Khao Lak, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Khao Lak is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Beijing Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

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.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Beijing?

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

Beijing is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Beijing Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is known to be 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Khao Lak or Beijing Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

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

Khao Lak and Beijing are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Many backpackers visit Beijing. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Khao Lak or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is a great destination for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

Beijing is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Beijing is fairly effecient and thorough. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Beijing a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Beijing both are respectable 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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable area. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Beijing?

Both Khao Lak and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Beijing has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beijing than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing 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 Beijing.

One day in Khao Lak or Beijing?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Beijing?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Beijing?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, 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 Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. This city 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Beijing, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.

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 Beijing Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Beijing?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 4400 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Beijing, 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 Beijing?

Beijing has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Khao Lak experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Beijing in the Summer?

Both Beijing and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Beijing. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Beijing. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Beijing in the Autumn?

Both Beijing and Khao Lak during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Beijing in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Beijing in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Beijing. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Beijing averages at about -4°C (26°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Beijing during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Beijing. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Beijing in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Beijing. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the spring. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Beijing. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Khao Lak