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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Surfers Paradise is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Khao Lak is more popular for its impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Khao Lak and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Also, Surfers Paradise is famous for the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Khao Lak different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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 Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Surfers Paradise has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise offer high quality scuba diving or snorkeling.

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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise are considered to be first-rate 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.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Surfers Paradise is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Khao Lak is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Surfers Paradise is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

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 Surfers Paradise offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

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

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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 Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Both Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Surfers Paradise has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Surfers Paradise than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

Couples should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Khao Lak. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Surfers Paradise that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Surfers Paradise offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the serene area of Khao Lak. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Surfers Paradise 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.

Five days in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Surfers Paradise, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. 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 Surfers Paradise has to offer. 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise, 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 Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise, 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 Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Surfers Paradise. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Surfers Paradisein January. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise 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 hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 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 Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Surfers Paradise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Surfers Paradisein October. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradise during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Surfers Paradise 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 more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 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 Surfers Paradise and Khao Lak