A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Khao Lak vs. Koh Chang for Beaches, Couples, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

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 Koh Chang 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 friendly, idyllic, and serene area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a tranquil, scenic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Khao Lak and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Khao Lak. Although Khao Lak and Koh Chang are both popular with visitors, Khao Lak has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Khao Lak is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping, while Koh Chang is known for its hiking. Khao Lak is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. It is also home to Khao Sok National Park. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Khao Lak different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Neither Khao Lak or Koh Chang offer quality museums and landmarks.

Khao Lak offers a few options for museum-goers. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Chang. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Khao Lak and Koh Chang can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Khao Lak offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Koh Chang has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang has a few options to choose from. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Khao Lak and Koh Chang have high quality 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 Koh Chang to choose from. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Khao Lak to enjoy 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.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Chang are considered to be first-rate 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.

Koh Chang offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Koh Chang has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Chang are high quality 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, Koh Chang is very family-friendly. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Chang are first-rate 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.

Koh Chang is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Koh Chang are high quality 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 Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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 Koh Chang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Koh Chang both are decent 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.

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable area. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

In either Khao Lak or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than Koh Chang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful island of Koh Chang offers food and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the idyllic destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxed area of Khao Lak. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer.

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang, 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 Koh Chang?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand.

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

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 Koh Chang Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Koh Chang. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

Both Koh Chang 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. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang in the Winter?

Both Koh Chang 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in January than Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun.

In January, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koh Chang in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Khao Lak