A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast 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 quiet, beautiful, and off-the-beaten-path island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a glamourous, vibrant, and colorful coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Lanta and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gold Coast. Although Koh Lanta and Gold Coast are both popular with visitors, Gold Coast has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gold Coast is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is known for its impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches. Koh Lanta is popular for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Gold Coast is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Gold Coast. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Lanta. 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.

Gold Coast has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Gold Coast just to party. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Lanta has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

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

Gold Coast is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

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 Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast offer excellent scuba diving or snorkeling.

Koh Lanta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Gold Coast. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast are considered to be terrific 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.

Gold Coast offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lanta. 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.

Many visitors go to Gold Coast for the hiking trails. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Gold Coast is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

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 Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular coastline to visit for families. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Lanta. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast are terrific 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.

Gold Coast is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Is Koh Lanta or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Gold Coast. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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 Gold Coast Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gold Coast is a great destination for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Gold Coast can get you to some places easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

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 Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Gold Coast is a coastline with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Gold Coast is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

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 Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gold Coast than in Koh Lanta. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Gold Coast.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the peaceful island of Koh Lanta, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastline of Gold Coast. 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 Gold Coast?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Lanta, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the high energy destination of Gold Coast. 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 coastline offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Koh Lanta, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the glamourous coastline of Gold Coast. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastline makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastline has to offer.

A week in Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Koh Lanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast, 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Gold Coast, 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 Koh Lanta or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Koh Lanta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Gold Coast in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Gold Coast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lanta in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin January. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Gold Coastin January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Gold Coast. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Also, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Gold Coastin April. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Gold Coast receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Gold Coastin April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Gold Coast. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Gold Coast in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Gold Coastin July. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in January than Gold Coastin July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Gold Coast in the Spring?

Both Gold Coast and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

In the spring, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lanta in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coast during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Gold Coastin October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April. The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Koh Lanta