A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Sendai for Beaches, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Sendai?

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 Sendai 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 friendly, idyllic, and serene area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Sendai

Sendai is a high energy, vibrant, and cosmopolitan city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Khao Lak and Sendai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Sendai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sendai. Although Khao Lak and Sendai are popular destinations, Sendai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sendai is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Sendai is famous for the Tanabata Festival, which is the largest of its kind and held every August. It is also well known for the statue of Lord Masamune.

How is Khao Lak different from Sendai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sendai 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 Sendai. The city grew up as a castle town, and today the castle ruins are a popular tourist destination. A park surrounds the area, Aobayama Park, and while only the stonewalls remain, you can visit the Sendai City Museum in the park as well. Zuihoden Temple is another landmark worth visiting, as is the AER observation terrace.

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 Sendai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Khao Lak and Sendai can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Khao Lak offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Sendai has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local specialties in the area and if you're an adventurous eater, then this is your place. Many of the dishes are influenced by the city's proximity to the ocean. Make sure you try the harako-meshi (rice with fish eggs), sea squirts, and sashimi. Another local favorite is beef tongue.

Is Khao Lak or Sendai Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Sendai know how to have a good time. Head to Kokubuncho for the best nightlife scene in the area. This downtown neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and karaoke that come alive in the evening. For live music, check out Rensa, which is one of the city's largest live music venues.

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 Sendai Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sendai is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Sendai is not a resort destination.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sendai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Khao Lak to enjoy 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.

Sendai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Sendai Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is renowned for the beache. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Khao Lak are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sendai. There are a number of beaches in the area, but for the best options you'll want to head a bit out of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Sendai?

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

Sendai is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find shopping arcades in the downtown area like Ichibancho, which is one of the most popular shopping districts in the city. If you head out of town towards the suburbs, you'll find malls and other outlet stores.

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 Sendai Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Sendai are high quality 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, Sendai is very family-friendly. The city has a number of green spaces that kids will enjoy including parks and playgrounds. There are also kid-focused museums like the Anpanman Children's Museum and the 3M Sendai City Science Museum. If the young ones really need a break from the history, you can check out Yagiyama Beny Land.

Is Khao Lak or Sendai Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Khao Lak has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Sendai is a good area for couples to visit. The city boasts beautiful temples as well as nice natural areas, parks, and gardens. If you have time to get out of town, Okama is a volcanic lake that is one of the most beautiful spots in the region, and well worth the excursion.

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

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Sendai is a good area to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around the town and many of the activities are free as they involve strolling through parks or wandering down shopping streets.

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

Sendai 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 Sendai is fairly effecient and thorough. There are two subway lines the north-south Namboku Line and the east-west Tozai Line. These lines cross at Sendai Station.

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 Sendai a more walkable city?

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

Sendai is very walkable. There are many parts of the city that are walkable, especially around Sendai Station as well as in the Chuo-dori arcade and the the Kokubuncho neighborhood.

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 Sendai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sendai or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Sendai?

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

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

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 city of Sendai 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 Sendai?

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.

Sendai 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 Sendai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Sendai?

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.

Sendai 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 Sendai?

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

Sendai 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Sendai, 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sendai Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Sendai?

Sendai has a larger population, and is about 610 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Sendai, 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 Sendai?

Sendai 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 Sendai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Sendai. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Sendai because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Sendai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Sendai averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Sendai. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sendai receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sendai. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Sendai. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sendai in the Autumn?

Both Sendai 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, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sendai this time of year.

In October, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Sendai. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Sendai fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Sendai during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Sendai receives 149 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sendai. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Sendai. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 103 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 Sendai in the Winter?

Both Sendai 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, many travelers come to Sendai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sendai. Khao Lak is much warmer than Sendai in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Sendai fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Sendai. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sendai receives 149 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sendai. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sendai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Sendai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many visitors come to Sendai in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Sendai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Sendai averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Sendai during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Sendai receives 188 hours of full sun in the spring.

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Sendai. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 94 mm (3.7 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 Sendai and Khao Lak