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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Christchurch?

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 Christchurch 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a cultural, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Khao Lak and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Christchurch?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Christchurch. Although Khao Lak and Christchurch are popular destinations, Christchurch has more sights and attractions for tourists. Christchurch is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Christchurch is famous for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also well known for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Khao Lak different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Christchurch 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 Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

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 Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Christchurch 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, Christchurch makes for a great culinary experience. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

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 Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Christchurch know how to have a good time. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

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 Christchurch Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is well known for its resorts. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is terrific for the beache. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch 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 Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Christchurch?

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

Christchurch is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

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 Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Christchurch is a great area if you're traveling as a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

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

Khao Lak and Christchurch are excellent 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 Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch 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 Christchurch.

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 Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Khao Lak or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Christchurch is very walkable. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Khao Lak or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Khao Lak due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

One day in Khao Lak or Christchurch?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this serene area offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. 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 Christchurch?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Christchurch 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Christchurch, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Christchurch?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this laid back destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch 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 Christchurch?

Khao Lak is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Christchurch 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 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

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

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 Christchurch Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Christchurch, 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 Christchurch?

Christchurch 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 Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch 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, many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Khao Lak is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Christchurch averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

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

It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Christchurchin April. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin April. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 161 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 Christchurchin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 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 Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Christchurch. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Christchurch in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F)in July.

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Christchurchin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Christchurch in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Christchurch. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin October. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the spring. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 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 Christchurch and Khao Lak