A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Lombok for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Lombok?

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 Lombok 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 serene, laid back, and relaxed area. Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a laid back, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Khao Lak and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Lombok?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Khao Lak and Lombok are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani.

How is Khao Lak different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lombok is a island with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Lombok is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

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 Lombok? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok 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, Lombok makes for a great culinary experience. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

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 Lombok Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Lombok 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 Lombok has a few options to choose from. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Khao Lak or Lombok Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Khao Lak and Lombok have very good 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 Lombok to choose from. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

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

Lombok 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.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

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 Lombok Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Lombok are considered to be fantastic 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.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Is Khao Lak or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Lombok 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 Lombok. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Lombok?

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

Lombok is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

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 Lombok More Beautiful?

Khao Lak and Lombok both are comparable with their fantastic scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Khao Lak is one of the main draws. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Is Khao Lak or Lombok Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Lombok are very good 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, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Is Khao Lak or Lombok Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Lombok are fantastic 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.

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

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

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

Lombok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

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

Khao Lak is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok 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 Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Khao Lak or Lombok a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Lombok both are reasonable 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.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable area. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

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

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Lombok?

Khao Lak and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Khao Lak because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok 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 Lombok.

One day in Khao Lak or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful island of Lombok 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 Lombok?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lombok 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 Lombok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lombok is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it. 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 Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.

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

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 Lombok Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Lombok?

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 Lombok in the Summer?

Both Lombok 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 Lombok year-round.

May to September is the dry season in Lombok. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Lombok. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Lombok. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Lombok averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Lombok in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Lombok. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Lombok 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, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. Lombok 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 Lombok. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Lombok. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Lombok in the Winter?

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

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Lombok. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 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 winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Lombok. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Lombok in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Lombok in the Spring?

Both Lombok 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 Lombok 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 Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Lombok. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In the spring, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Lombok. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Lombok and Khao Lak