A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Wollongong for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong 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.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Lanta and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wollongong. Although Koh Lanta and Wollongong are both popular with visitors, Wollongong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wollongong is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Wollongong is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive. 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 Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

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 Wollongong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Wollongong 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.

Wollongong has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Koh Lanta or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wollongong is not a resort destination.

Koh Lanta is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Wollongong is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lanta is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Lanta. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Is Koh Lanta or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is great for hiking. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

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

Wollongong offers some nice shopping areas. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

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 Wollongong Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Wollongong are excellent 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 Wollongong. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Wollongong Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Koh Lanta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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

Koh Lanta and Wollongong are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lanta is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Wollongong. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Koh Lanta or Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for students. However, Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

Wollongong is popular with students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong can get you to some places easily. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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 Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Lanta or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Lanta due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wollongong 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 Wollongong.

One day in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quiet 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 shopping and museums around the coastal city of Wollongong. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Wollongong?

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 museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Wollongong. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the trendy coastal city of Wollongong. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

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.

Wollongong is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wollongong in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lanta in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Wollongong averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

In Wollongong, 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 Wollongongin January. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Wollongongin January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Wollongong in the Autumn?

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

In October, Koh Lanta is generally much warmer than Wollongongin April. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongong during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Wollongongin April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Wollongong in the Winter?

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

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Wollongong in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. 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 Wollongongin July. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Wollongongin July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 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 Wollongong in the Spring?

Both Wollongong 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 Wollongong this time of year.

In the spring, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lanta in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Wollongong averages at about 17°C (63°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. 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 Wollongong during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Wollongongin October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 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 Wollongong and Koh Lanta