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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

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 Coffs Harbour 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a lively, relaxing, and fun vacation town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Coffs Harbour. Although Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour are both popular with visitors, Coffs Harbour has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Coffs Harbour is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Khao Lak is known for its impressive beauty. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Coffs Harbour is popular for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also home to the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

How is Khao Lak different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Coffs Harbour is a vacation town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Coffs Harbour is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

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 Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Coffs Harbour 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, Coffs Harbour makes for a great culinary experience. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

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 Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Coffs Harbour know how to have a good time. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

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 Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour have great options.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Coffs Harbour to choose from. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Is Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour offer great scuba diving or snorkeling.

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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Coffs Harbour. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Is Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour are considered to be world-class 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.

Coffs Harbour offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Is Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

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

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

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 Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is an amazing vacation town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular vacation town to visit for families. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

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 Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is very popular for romance. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Coffs Harbour frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Is Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

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

Khao Lak is a area with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Khao Lak has some public transit options. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Khao Lak is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable area. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

Both Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Coffs Harbour has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour.

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

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Coffs Harbour. 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 Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The vacation town of Coffs Harbour offers museums and nightlife. 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 Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly destination of Khao Lak. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour, 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 Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Coffs Harbour has to offer. This vacation town 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

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 Coffs Harbour Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour, 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 Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Coffs Harbour. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin January. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Coffs Harbourin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

Both Coffs Harbour 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, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 20°C (67°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Coffs Harbourin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 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 Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

Both Coffs Harbour 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, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Coffs Harbourin July. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Coffs Harbourin July. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Coffs Harbourin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Coffs Harbour. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Coffs Harbour in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun in the spring.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the spring. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Coffs Harbourin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 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 Coffs Harbour and Khao Lak