A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Airlie Beach for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Airlie Beach, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a paradise, laid back, and slow-paced town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Koh Chang and Airlie Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Airlie Beach. Although Koh Chang and Airlie Beach are both popular with visitors, Airlie Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Airlie Beach is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its tours and transportation that visit the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. It is also home to the Airlie Beach Lagoon. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Airlie Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Airlie Beach and Koh Chang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Neither Koh Chang or Airlie Beach offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Chang. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Airlie Beach offers a few options for museum-goers. Oceanfront beauty is what this town is all about, so you won't find much is the form of museums and manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Airlie Beach. There's a good selection of restaurants in town that offer everything from freshly caught local seafood to fine dining or casual. Try to pick a place with a view.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Nightlife?

Both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Airlie Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has a number of nightlife venues that include DJ hosted parties, beachfront cocktail lounges, and mellow local bars.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Resorts?

Airlie Beach is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Airlie Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There's everything from posh resorts and luxury hotels to family-friendly campgrounds. There are also hostels that cater to the budget crowd.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Airlie Beach is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Airlie Beach specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. You can't snorkel right off the shore because the water is murky and mucky, but there are excursions that will take you to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many day cruises that will take you out on the reef to several sights where you may see beautiful coral, sea turtles, or even reef sharks.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Airlie Beach is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Near town there are world class beaches that range from secluded and idyllic to those lined with luxury resorts. For an escape, head to Hideaway Bay or Dingo Beach. If you don't want to leave town, there's also Airlie Beach, which is right off the Main Street. You likely won't want to swim here, but you can enjoy a picnic. Whatever beach you chose, do confirm that there's a stinger net.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Hiking?

Airlie Beach is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Airlie Beach draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find many incredible hiking trails in the area. Conway National Park is a great place to hike through the rainforest and Conway State Forest is another nice spot.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Airlie Beach. Head to the town's main street for your typical souvenir shops and holiday stores.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Airlie Beach are both great destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Airlie Beach is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy playing in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, visiting the markets, or hanging out at the local beaches or playgrounds. If you're hoping to swim in the ocean, be very aware of the season and the conditions.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Airlie Beach are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Airlie Beach is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples often use this as a gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. The dining scene is good and there are countless outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. There are also many different resorts in the area.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Airlie Beach are both great destinations for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Airlie Beach is a great island to visit for backpackers. If you're hoping to visit the Whitsunday Islands, then is a good place to base yourself as a backpacker. It has a decent selection of hostels and there are a number of restaurants and other dining options.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

You'll find some public transit in Airlie Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a public bus that runs from Proserpine to Shute Harbour. The main bus station is near the city center and the main beach.

Is Koh Chang or Airlie Beach a more walkable city?

Airlie Beach is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Airlie Beach is very walkable. The town itself is walkable, but the surrounding area is hilly and requires a car.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Airlie Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Airlie Beach or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Airlie Beach than in Koh Chang. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 4-7 days is enough time in Airlie Beach.

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

Couples should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Koh Chang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Airlie Beach that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Koh Chang 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 Airlie Beach.

One day in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this serene island offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Airlie Beach. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Airlie Beach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this tranquil destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the slow-paced town of Airlie Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Koh Chang is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Airlie Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Airlie Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Chang Expensive? and Is Airlie Beach Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Chang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Airlie Beach. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Airlie Beach in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Airlie Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin January. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 285 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Airlie Beach. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Airlie Beachin January. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 331 mm (13 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach in the Autumn?

Both Airlie Beach and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Airlie Beach for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Koh Chang is a little warmer than Airlie Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Chang in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Airlie Beach averages at about 23°C (73°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Airlie Beach. Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Airlie Beach during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 207 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Airlie Beachin April. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach in the Winter?

Both Airlie Beach and Koh Chang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Airlie Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Airlie Beachin July. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 26°C (79°F), and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In Airlie Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the winter, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Airlie Beachin July. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 226 hours of full sun.

Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Airlie Beachin July. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Airlie Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Airlie Beach. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Airlie Beach this time of year.

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Airlie Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Airlie Beach this time of the year. In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives less sunshine than Airlie Beach during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 298 hours of full sun in the spring.

Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Airlie Beachin October. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Airlie Beach and Koh Chang