A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lipe vs. Koh Chang for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

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 Koh Chang can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a local, tranquil, and idyllic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a tranquil, scenic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Koh Lipe and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less hiking options
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Koh Chang are both popular with visitors, Koh Lipe has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Lipe is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and hiking, while Koh Chang is known for its nightlife. Koh Chang is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. It is also home to Sunrise Beach.

How is Koh Lipe different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Neither Koh Lipe or Koh Chang offer quality museums and landmarks.

Koh Lipe offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Chang. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.


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

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Both Koh Lipe and Koh Chang offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Koh Lipe offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Koh Chang has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Chang is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

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 Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Koh Lipe and Koh Chang.

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.

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.


Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Lipe is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Koh Lipe specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Lipe and Koh Chang are terrific choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lipe is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Lipe is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Lipe. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.


Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Shopping is a popular activity in both Koh Chang 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, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Koh Chang.

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, Koh Chang is very family-friendly. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Both Koh Lipe and Koh Chang are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. 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.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.


Is Koh Lipe or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. 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.

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

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe
Koh Chang

Koh Lipe is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. 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.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.


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

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

In either Koh Lipe or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe than Koh Chang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

Families should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang than Koh Lipe 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 Chang.


  • How many days in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Lipe 3-7 
    Koh Chang 3-5

One day in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Lipe. 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.

The beautiful island of Koh Chang offers food and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the tranquil destination of Koh Lipe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Koh Chang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the local island of Koh Lipe. 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.

Koh Chang 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 Chang, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand.


Which place is cheaper, Koh Chang or Koh Lipe?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Lipe is $86, while the average daily cost in Koh Chang is $49. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koh Lipe and Koh Chang in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Lipe $44
    Koh Chang $24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Lipe $88
    Koh Chang $48
Compare Hotels in Koh Lipe and Koh Chang

Looking for a hotel in Koh Lipe or Koh Chang? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koh Lipe


Hotels in Koh Chang


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koh Lipe Hotel Prices and Koh Chang Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Lipe $18
    Koh Chang $13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Lipe

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Koh Lipe:

  • Private Transfer Pak Bara Pier to Hatyai Airport by Van: $71
  • Minibus and Speedboat Transfer from Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport : $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Chang

Also for Koh Chang, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Bangkok Airport Private Transfer : Trat/ Koh Chang: $118
  • Departure Private Airport Transfer : Koh Chang to Bangkok Airport: $118
  • Private Transfer from Koh Chang to Bangkok Airport or Don Muang Airport: $199
  • Private Transfer from Trat to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $218
  • Private Transfer from Trat to Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport: $212
  • Trat Airport: Shared Transfers to/from Koh Chang with Ferry: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

Prices for flights to both Koh Chang and Koh Lipe change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koh Lipe $27
    Koh Chang $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Lipe $23
    Koh Chang $5.51

Tours and Activities in Koh Lipe

Here are a few actual costs in Koh Lipe for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours Tour Sunset Cruise Around Lipe: $16
  • Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) 1 day Experience: $113
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands: $22
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Frontier in the Eastern Adang Archipelago: $25
  • Full-Day Koh Lipe 5 Islands Snorkeling Experience with Lunch: $21
  • Full-Day Koh Lipe 7 Islands Snorkeling Experience with Lunch: $24
  • Full-Day Koh Lipe East Zone Snorkeling Experience with Lunch: $18

Tours and Activities in Koh Chang

For Koh Chang, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Kayak Experience in Bang Bao Bay with Lunch: $23
  • Full-Day Koh Chang Tour with Lunch : $54
  • Bubblemaker, experience dive for kids from 8 to 10 years old (Koh Chang): $85
  • PADI Discover Scuba Dive Experience: $155
  • 1-Day Adventure in Diving in Koh Chang: $286

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Lipe $8.27
    Koh Chang $4.73


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Lipe and Koh Chang, we can see that Koh Lipe is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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 Koh Chang Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Koh Chang?

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 Lipe or Koh Chang in the Summer?

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

It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lipe usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Koh Lipe 27°C (81°F) 
    Koh Chang 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In October, Koh Lipe usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Chang. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lipe in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 27°C (81°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Koh Lipe 27°C (81°F) 
    Koh Chang 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Chang in the Winter?

Both Koh Chang and Koh Lipe during the winter 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 Koh Chang year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in January than Koh Chang. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Koh Lipe is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Koh Lipe 27°C (80°F) 
    Koh Chang 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Chang in the Spring?

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

December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Koh Lipe 29°C (85°F) 
    Koh Chang 29°C (84°F)

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe Koh Chang
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 50 mm (2 in) 26°C (79°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 27°C (81°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 51 mm (2 in) 28°C (82°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 29°C (85°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 29°C (84°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 244 mm (9.6 in) 28°C (83°F) 356 mm (14 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 224 mm (8.8 in) 28°C (82°F) 513 mm (20.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 269 mm (10.6 in) 28°C (82°F) 440 mm (17.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 262 mm (10.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 514 mm (20.2 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 355 mm (14 in) 27°C (81°F) 476 mm (18.7 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 281 mm (11.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 280 mm (11 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 204 mm (8 in) 27°C (80°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)