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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

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 Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a rural, traditional, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Rockhampton travel costs.

Khao Lak and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rockhampton than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rockhampton is better known for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and small town charm, 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. Rockhampton is well known for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. Also, Rockhampton is famous for the Rockhampton Heritage Village.

How is Khao Lak different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway 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 Rockhampton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rockhampton 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, Rockhampton makes for a great culinary experience. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

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 Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton has a few options to choose from. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Rockhampton are excellent 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, Rockhampton is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rockhampton 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.

Couples visit Rockhampton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Rockhampton is a town with good options for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Rockhampton is popular with students. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

Khao Lak is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Rockhampton is lacking in options for its public transit.

Khao Lak has some public transit options. 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 Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Khao Lak or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

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

Rockhampton is somewhat walkable. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct 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 Rockhampton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Khao Lak or Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back 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.

The town of Rockhampton offers food and shopping. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxed 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.

Rockhampton 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rockhampton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back 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.

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

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.

Rockhampton 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 Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton is more expensive. And not only is Khao Lak much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Khao Lak is in Asia and Rockhampton 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 Khao Lak would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Khao Lak 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 Rockhampton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rockhampton than you might in Khao Lak.

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 Rockhampton Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Rockhampton, 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 Rockhampton?

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Rockhampton. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Rockhampton. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Rockhamptonin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

Both Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Rockhampton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 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 Rockhampton in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 16°C (61°F)in July.

Khao Lak usually gets more rain in January than Rockhamptonin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Rockhampton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year.

In April, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Rockhamptonin October. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 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 Rockhampton and Khao Lak