A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Da Nang for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Da Nang can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small, local, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lipe as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Lipe travel costs.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a accessible, authentic, and coastal city. It's also known for beaches, museums, and nightlife. See Da Nang travel costs.

Koh Lipe and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Da Nang are popular destinations, Koh Lipe has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lipe is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Koh Lipe is famous for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. It is also well known for Sunrise Beach. Da Nang is famous for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Koh Lipe different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Da Nang and Koh Lipe. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

Da Nang is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Da Nang is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Da Nang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Da Nang makes for a great culinary experience. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is a great destination for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Da Nang know how to have a good time. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Koh Lipe and Da Nang.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lipe. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Da Nang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Lipe a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is terrific for the beach. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Lipe. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Many people head to Da Nang to enjoy the beach. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Koh Lipe is a popular spot for hiking. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Da Nang and Koh Lipe.

Koh Lipe is a good destination for shopping. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

If you're looking to go shopping, Da Nang has some nice offerings. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang More Beautiful?

Koh Lipe is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lipe as well. Many visitors consider this to be one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It still holds on to that undiscovered quality and the nearby national park offers excellent nature to explore.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Da Nang.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Da Nang is very family-friendly. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Koh Lipe makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe and Da Nang are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lipe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

It's common for backpackers to visit Da Nang. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Da Nang is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Da Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Da Nang a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable island. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Da Nang is not a very walkable island. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Da Nang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Da Nang or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Lipe or Da Nang to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Lipe than Da Nang because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 1-2 days is enough time in Da Nang.

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

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

One day in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

In Koh Lipe, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Da Nang offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

In Koh Lipe, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

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

Da Nang is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. In Koh Lipe, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Da Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Lipe and Da Nang, we can see that Koh Lipe is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Da Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Da Nang 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 Lipe would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Lipe than you might in Da Nang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Lipe Expensive? and Is Da Nang Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Da Nang?

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 Lipe or Da Nang in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lipe and Da Nang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lipe year-round. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Da Nang. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Da Nang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lipe in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Da Nang averages at about 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Da Nang in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Da Nang. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year.

Also, December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. May to October in Koh Lipe is the rainy season. August to December in Da Nang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Da Nang. Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe usually gets less rain in October than Da Nang. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Koh Lipe is generally around the same temperature as Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (81°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Da Nang in the Winter?

Both Da Nang and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. In January, Koh Lipe usually receives less rain than Da Nang. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Da Nang in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Da Nang fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Da Nang in the Spring?

Both Da Nang and Koh Lipe during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lipe because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round.

December to April is the dry season in Koh Lipe. May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in April than Da Nang. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the spring, Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Da Nang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lipe in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Da Nang averages at about 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Da Nang and Koh Lipe