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

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise 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. Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Koh Lanta is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. 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 Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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 Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise just to party. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

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

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise offer high quality 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 Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Is Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Is Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Surfers Paradise make it a world-class shopping destination. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

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 Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Surfers Paradise is a city 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 Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

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 Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Surfers Paradise is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable place. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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 Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Both Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Lanta. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Surfers Paradise. 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find nightlife and food around the off-the-beaten-path island of Koh Lanta. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the glamourous destination of Surfers Paradise. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise, 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise, 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 Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Surfers Paradise. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Koh Lanta during the winter 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, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Surfers Paradise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Koh Lanta