A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Chang vs. Pattaya for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Koh Chang or Pattaya?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Pattaya, 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 scenic, idyllic, and serene island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang and Pattaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pattaya. Although Koh Chang and Pattaya are popular destinations, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Pattaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pattaya is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Pattaya is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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 Pattaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pattaya 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 Pattaya. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is very popular for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Pattaya is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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 Pattaya Better for Resorts?

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

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 Pattaya, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Is Koh Chang or Pattaya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Pattaya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

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 Pattaya Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Koh Chang or Pattaya Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is adequate for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

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.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

Pattaya 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 Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

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 Pattaya Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Pattaya are both high quality 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.

Pattaya is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Is Koh Chang or Pattaya Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city 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.

Pattaya is a good island for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Koh Chang or Pattaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Koh Chang and Pattaya.

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 Pattaya, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Is Koh Chang or Pattaya a more walkable city?

Koh Chang and Pattaya are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable island. 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.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Pattaya or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

In Koh Chang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the resort city of Pattaya. 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 Pattaya?

In Koh Chang, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the high energy destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort city has to offer. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Chang has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active resort city of Pattaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Pattaya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Pattaya 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, and The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Pattaya, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Pattaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pattaya 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 Pattaya Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Pattaya?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Pattaya in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Pattaya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Koh Chang usually receives less sunshine than Pattaya during summer. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Pattaya receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Pattaya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Chang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Pattaya averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Chang or Pattaya in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Pattaya. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year.

Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Pattaya. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. In the autumn, Koh Chang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pattaya receives 206 hours of full sun.

In October, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Pattaya. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 27°C (81°F), and Pattaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Chang or Pattaya in the Winter?

Both Pattaya and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya during winter. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Pattaya receives 276 hours of full sun in the winter.

Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Pattaya in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Pattaya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Koh Chang or Pattaya in the Spring?

Both Pattaya and Koh Chang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round.

June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in April than Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the spring, Koh Chang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pattaya receives 262 hours of full sun.

In the spring, Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Pattaya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Chang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Pattaya averages at about 30°C (86°F).

Typical Weather for Pattaya and Koh Chang