A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Noosa Heads for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

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 Noosa Heads 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 idyllic, serene, and laid back area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a laid back, relaxed, and peaceful coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Khao Lak and Noosa Heads: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Noosa Heads. Although Khao Lak and Noosa Heads are popular destinations, Noosa Heads has more sights and attractions for tourists. Noosa Heads is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, and small town charm, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Noosa Heads is famous for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture. It is also well known for Noosa Main Beach.

How is Khao Lak different from Noosa Heads?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Noosa Heads is a coastal town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Noosa Heads offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.

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 Noosa Heads? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Noosa Heads 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, Noosa Heads makes for a great culinary experience. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads has a few options to choose from. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great area for its luxury resorts. However, Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

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.

Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for its diving and snorkeling. However, Noosa Heads is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Noosa Heads is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Noosa Heads are considered to be world-class 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.

Noosa Heads offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Hiking?

Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Noosa Heads are great 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, Noosa Heads is very family-friendly. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for couples.

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.

Noosa Heads is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Noosa Heads are great 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 Noosa Heads. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads.

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 Noosa Heads offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

Is Khao Lak or Noosa Heads a more walkable city?

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

Noosa Heads is very walkable. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.

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 Noosa Heads Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Noosa Heads or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

It's fun to spend time in either Khao Lak or Noosa Heads. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Khao Lak due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-4 days is enough time in Noosa Heads.

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

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Noosa Heads. 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 Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads.

One day in Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene area of Khao Lak. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Noosa Heads is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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 Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back destination of Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This area offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Noosa Heads is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Noosa Heads, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic area of Khao Lak. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Noosa Heads is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Khao Lak. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this area.

Noosa Heads is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Noosa Heads, 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 Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Noosa Heads?

Noosa Heads has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Noosa Heads, 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 Noosa Heads?

Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads in the Summer?

Both Noosa Heads 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, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Noosa Heads this time of year.

In the summer, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Noosa Heads. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 20°C (67°F)in January.

Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Headsin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Noosa Heads in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Noosa Heads. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Noosa Heads for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Noosa Headsin April. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Noosa Headsin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 47 mm (1.9 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 Noosa Heads in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Noosa Heads. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Noosa Heads in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Noosa Heads in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 7°C (44°F)in July.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Noosa Headsin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Noosa Heads in the Spring?

Both Noosa Heads 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, most visitors come to Noosa Heads for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Noosa Heads. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 14°C (57°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Noosa Headsin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 76 mm (3 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 Noosa Heads and Khao Lak