A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lanta vs. Koh Tao for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

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 Koh Tao 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 off-the-beaten-path, tranquil, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Koh Lanta and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Koh Lanta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Koh Lanta is well known for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Neither Koh Lanta or Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Koh Tao both to be high quality 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.

Koh Tao has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Koh Tao know how to have a good time. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Koh Lanta and Koh Tao have high quality 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 Koh Tao to choose from. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

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 Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Koh Tao are considered to be first-rate 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.

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Both Koh Lanta and Koh Tao are destinations which offer high quality 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 Koh Tao for the hiking trails. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

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 Koh Tao Better for Families?

Koh Lanta is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Lanta is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Koh Lanta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Tao is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

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 Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

In Koh Lanta, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao?

In Koh Lanta, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Lanta has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

Koh Lanta 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 Lanta has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid back island of Koh Tao. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lanta. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Koh Lanta. 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.

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao, 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 Koh Tao, we can see that Koh Lanta is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Koh Lanta would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Lanta than you might in Koh Tao.

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 Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Koh Tao?

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta. Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

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

Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao. Koh Tao 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 around the same amount of rain as Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lanta in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Koh Tao in the Winter?

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

Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

In January, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao 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. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April. The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Koh Lanta