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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Picton?

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 Picton 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Picton

Picton is a relaxing, picturesque, and scenic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Khao Lak and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Picton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Picton than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Picton is better known for its museums, food, hiking, and small town charm, while Khao Lak is more popular for its nightlife, 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. Picton is well known for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. Also, Picton is famous for the Queen Charlotte Track.

How is Khao Lak different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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 Picton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picton 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, Picton makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

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 Picton Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Khao Lak. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Khao Lak or Picton Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Picton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Picton is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Picton Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is very popular for the beach. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Is Khao Lak or Picton Better for Hiking?

Picton 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 Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Picton?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Picton 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 Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Khao Lak or Picton Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Picton 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, Picton is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Khao Lak or Picton Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is very popular for couples. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

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

Khao Lak and Picton are very good 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 Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Is Khao Lak or Picton 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 Picton.

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 Picton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Khao Lak or Picton a more walkable city?

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

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Khao Lak or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Khao Lak than Picton 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 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Picton. 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 Picton 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 Picton.

One day in Khao Lak or Picton?

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 town of Picton offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Picton?

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.

Picton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this 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 Picton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Picton?

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.

Picton 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 Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic 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.

Picton is a great place to explore. 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 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Picton, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Picton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Khao Lak is in Asia and Picton is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Picton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Picton 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 Picton.

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 Picton Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Picton?

Picton has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Picton, 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 Picton?

Picton 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 Picton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Picton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Pictonin January. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Picton. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Picton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Picton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Pictonin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Picton averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Picton. In January, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton and Khao Lak during the spring 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 spring months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Pictonin October. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Pictonin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Typical Weather for Picton and Khao Lak