A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a glamourous, vibrant, and colorful coastline. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Khao Lak and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gold Coast than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gold Coast is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Khao Lak and is popular for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. Also, Gold Coast is famous for the long sandy beaches. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Khao Lak different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

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 Gold Coast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gold Coast 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, Gold Coast makes for a great culinary experience. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

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 Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

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

Gold Coast has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

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

Gold Coast is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

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 Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Khao Lak and Gold Coast offer excellent 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 Gold Coast. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Is Khao Lak or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Gold Coast are considered to be terrific 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.

Gold Coast offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Is Khao Lak or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

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

Gold Coast is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

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 Gold Coast Better for Families?

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

Gold Coast is an extremely popular coastline to visit for families. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Gold Coast are terrific 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.

Gold Coast is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Is Khao Lak or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Gold Coast is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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 Gold Coast Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

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 Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Gold Coast is a coastline with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored 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 Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

With shopping and nightlife around the serene area of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The coastline of Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast?

Khao Lak, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Khao Lak is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast has to offer. This coastline 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Gold Coast, we can see that Khao Lak 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 Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Khao Lak during the summer 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 Gold Coast in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Gold Coastin January. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin January. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Gold Coastin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Gold Coast. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Gold Coast in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Gold Coast receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Gold Coastin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Gold Coast. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Gold Coastin July. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Gold Coastin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Gold Coast in the Spring?

Both Gold Coast and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

In April, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Gold Coastin October. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coast during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Gold Coastin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Khao Lak