A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Byron Bay for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Byron Bay, 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 in Koh Chang as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a carefree, Bohemian, and relaxed town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Byron Bay is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Koh Chang and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Byron Bay. Although Koh Chang and Byron Bay are popular destinations, Byron Bay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Byron Bay is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Byron Bay is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. It is also well known for Cape Byron Lighthouse. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Byron Bay is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Byron Bay is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Byron Bay. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Byron Bay is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Byron Bay has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, high quality resorts can be found in both Koh Chang and Byron Bay.

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

In Byron Bay, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for its diving and snorkeling. However, Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Koh Chang. 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.

Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Chang and Byron Bay have first-rate 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.

Byron Bay is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Byron Bay is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Byron Bay has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

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 Byron Bay?

Byron Bay is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

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 Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Chang as well. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Koh Chang is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly island. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Koh Chang is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Byron Bay are both high quality 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.

Byron Bay is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

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

Koh Chang is a island with good options for its public transit. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Koh Chang has a few 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Koh Chang or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Byron Bay is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Byron Bay is somewhat walkable. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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 Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay.

One day in Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Koh Chang. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Byron Bay. 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 Byron Bay?

You'll find food and nightlife around the scenic destination of Koh Chang. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the Bohemian destination of Byron Bay. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Byron Bay?

You'll find nightlife and food around the idyllic island of Koh Chang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxed town of Byron Bay. 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. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay, 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Byron Bay, we can see that Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Byron Bay?

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Byron Bay. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Chang is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Chang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Byron Bay. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Byron Bayin January. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

Both Byron Bay 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, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koh Chang is generally a little warmer than Byron Bayin April. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 27°C (81°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Byron Bay. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin April. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 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 Byron Bay in the Winter?

Both Byron Bay 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, most visitors come to Byron Bay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Koh Chang is much warmer than Byron Bay in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in July.

Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Byron Bayin July. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Byron Bay in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Byron Bay. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Chang is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Chang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin October. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Koh Chang