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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Canberra?

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 Canberra 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 laid back, relaxed, and friendly area. Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Canberra

Canberra is a under-rated, cultural, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Canberra travel costs.

Khao Lak and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Canberra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Canberra. Although Khao Lak and Canberra are popular destinations, Canberra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Canberra is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and big city activities, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Canberra is famous for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. It is also well known for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Khao Lak different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Canberra is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Canberra. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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 Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Canberra is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Canberra makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

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 Canberra Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Canberra has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Canberra has a few options to choose from. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is terrific for the beach. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Canberra?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Canberra and Khao Lak.

Khao Lak is a great destination for shopping. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Canberra. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Canberra are excellent 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, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Khao Lak makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Canberra is a good area for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra 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 Canberra.

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 Canberra offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Khao Lak or Canberra a more walkable city?

Canberra is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Canberra is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Canberra. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Canberra. 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 Khao Lak than Canberra 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Canberra?

The beautiful area of Khao Lak offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The city of Canberra offers food and shopping. 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 Canberra?

Khao Lak 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.

Canberra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Canberra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Canberra?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Canberra is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Canberra?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. This area offers something for everyone.

Canberra is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Canberra, we can see that Canberra is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Khao Lak is in Asia and Canberra is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Canberra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Canberra?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

Canberra 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 Canberra in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Canberra. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Canberra in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Canberra averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Canberrain January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Canberrain April. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Canberra. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Canberrain April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Canberra in the Winter?

Both Canberra and Khao Lak during the winter 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, the winter months attract visitors to Canberra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Canberra in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

Khao Lak usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Canberrain July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Canberra. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Canberra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Canberra averages at about 15°C (60°F)in October.

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Canberrain October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Khao Lak