A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Nagasaki for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki 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. Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a welcoming, interesting, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Khao Lak and Nagasaki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nagasaki than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nagasaki is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Nagasaki is well known for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. Also, Nagasaki is famous for the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.

How is Khao Lak different from Nagasaki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

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 Nagasaki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagasaki 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, Nagasaki makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

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 Nagasaki Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Nagasaki know how to have a good time. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

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 Nagasaki Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Nagasaki Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. 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.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Is Khao Lak or Nagasaki More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Nagasaki Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Khao Lak. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

Is Khao Lak or Nagasaki Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Khao Lak makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

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

Khao Lak is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

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 Nagasaki a more walkable city?

Nagasaki is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Nagasaki is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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 Nagasaki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagasaki or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Nagasaki. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Nagasaki. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagasaki.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki?

The beautiful area of Khao Lak offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

The city of Nagasaki offers food and shopping. 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 Nagasaki?

Khao Lak 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.

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

Five days in Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nagasaki is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. This area offers something for everyone.

Nagasaki is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

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 Nagasaki Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Nagasaki?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Nagasaki, 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 Nagasaki?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Nagasaki. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Nagasaki in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 197 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets less rain in July than Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Nagasaki in the Autumn?

Both Nagasaki 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, most visitors come to Nagasaki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Nagasaki in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Nagasaki fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nagasaki during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 104 mm (4.1 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 Nagasaki in the Winter?

Both Nagasaki 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. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Nagasaki. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 112 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Nagasaki in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Nagasaki. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nagasaki 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 less rain than Nagasaki. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 175 mm (6.9 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 Nagasaki and Khao Lak