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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

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 Tao 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Khao Lak and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Khao Lak and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Khao Lak different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Neither Khao Lak or Koh Tao 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 Tao. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Koh Tao 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, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

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 Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Koh Tao know how to have a good time. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Khao Lak and Koh Tao 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 Tao to choose from. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

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

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Tao 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 Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Khao Lak is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Khao Lak has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Khao Lak or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

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

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Koh Tao has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Tao than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Koh Tao. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Koh Tao?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao has to offer. 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 Tao, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Tao.

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Koh Tao?

Khao Lak has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Koh Tao, 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 Koh Tao?

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 Tao in the Summer?

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

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

In the summer, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Koh Tao. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Koh Tao 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, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao. Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

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

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

Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

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

Both Koh Tao 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. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao 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 Tao is February to June. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In the spring, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Khao Lak