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

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a peaceful, quiet, and beautiful island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lanta as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a laid back, slow-paced, and idyllic town. The famous beauty of Airlie Beach is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Airlie Beach travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Airlie Beach. Although Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach are popular destinations, Airlie Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Airlie Beach is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and shopping, while Koh Lanta attracts visitors for its food. Airlie Beach is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is known for its tours and transportation that visit the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. It is also well known for the Airlie Beach Lagoon. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Koh Lanta offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Airlie Beach. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Lanta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Airlie Beach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Lanta makes for a great culinary experience. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Airlie Beach has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach has a better nightlife scene.

Koh Lanta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

If you're looking for night time activities Airlie Beach has a few options to choose from. The town has a number of nightlife venues that include DJ hosted parties, beachfront cocktail lounges, and mellow local bars.

Is Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Resorts?

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Airlie Beach is a world class resort vacation destination. There's everything from posh resorts and luxury hotels to family-friendly campgrounds. There are also hostels that cater to the budget crowd.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

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

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Airlie Beach is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Is Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Koh Lanta is considered to be a world-class beach destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Airlie Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Hiking?

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Airlie Beach visitors will find world-class hiking 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 go to Koh Lanta for the hiking trails. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach is a town with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Airlie Beach offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the town's main street for your typical souvenir shops and holiday stores.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

The famous beauty of Koh Lanta is one of the main draws. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Many visitors also come to Airlie Beach because of it's amazing beauty. Serving as a gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, this town is surrounded by some of the world's most idyllic landscapes.

Is Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach are very good to visit with kids.

Koh Lanta is a very kid-friendly island. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Airlie Beach. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Koh Lanta is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Airlie Beach is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Airlie Beach is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Airlie Beach is a great town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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

Airlie Beach is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach a more walkable city?

Airlie Beach is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

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

How long in Koh Lanta or Airlie Beach?

Both Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 4-7 days is enough time in Airlie Beach.

Families should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Koh Lanta. 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 Lanta. 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 Lanta 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach?

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tranquil island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach?

Koh Lanta is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the slow-paced 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach?

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this peaceful destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Lanta or Airlie Beach?

Koh Lanta is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Honeymoon Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach, we can see that Airlie Beach is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koh Lanta 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 Lanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lanta 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 Lanta.

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

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Airlie Beach. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Also, many travelers come to Airlie Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Airlie Beachin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Airlie Beach this time of the year. In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Airlie Beach during summer. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Airlie Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives less rain than Airlie Beachin January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 331 mm (13 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Airlie Beach. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Airlie Beach in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Airlie Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. In the autumn, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin April. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 207 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Airlie Beach. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in October than Airlie Beachin April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Airlie Beach and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Airlie Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Airlie Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lanta in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Airlie Beach averages at about 16°C (62°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Airlie Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Airlie Beach during winter. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Airlie Beachin July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April.

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

Both Airlie Beach and Koh Lanta during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Airlie Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Airlie Beachin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 29°C (85°F), and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Airlie Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the spring, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin October. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 298 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in April than Airlie Beachin October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Typical Weather for Airlie Beach and Koh Lanta