A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lanta vs. Khao Lak for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak 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 tranquil, peaceful, and quiet island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a idyllic, serene, and laid back area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Lanta and Khao Lak: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lanta. Although Koh Lanta and Khao Lak are popular destinations, Koh Lanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lanta is very popular for its food and hiking, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its shopping. Khao Lak is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park. It is also well known for Long Beach.

How is Koh Lanta different from Khao Lak?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Neither Koh Lanta or Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Lanta is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Koh Lanta or Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak have great options.

In Koh Lanta, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak offer great 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 Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak are considered to be world-class 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.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

Khao Lak is a area with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Khao Lak offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

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 Khao Lak Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak are great 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 Khao Lak. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak are world-class 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.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Khao Lak Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Khao Lak is a great area to visit for backpackers. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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 Khao Lak Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a area 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 Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

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 Khao Lak a more walkable city?

Khao Lak is a area with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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 Khao Lak Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Khao Lak or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

The beautiful island of Koh Lanta offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the area of Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak?

Koh Lanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. 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 area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the friendly area of Khao Lak. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this area 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 area has to offer.

A week in Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak, 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 Cultural Tours in Thailand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Khao Lak?

Koh Lanta has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Khao Lak, 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 Khao Lak?

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 Lanta or Khao Lak in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of rain as Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak during summer. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Khao Lak in the Autumn?

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

November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Khao Lak 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 less rain in October than Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 181 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Khao Lak in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Khao Lak in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Khao Lak. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. In January, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak during winter. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lanta in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Khao Lak in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Khao Lak. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year.

Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in April than Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the spring, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 249 hours of full sun.

In April, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 29°C (85°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Typical Weather for Khao Lak and Koh Lanta