A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lipe vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

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

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a tropical, party-oriented, and high energy party island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while Koh Lipe is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Koh Pha Ngan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

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 Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

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 Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is well known for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe is not to be missed. 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 Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan are fantastic 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 Pha Ngan are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

You'll find very good hiking in both Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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 go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Koh Lipe is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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 Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

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 Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koh Lipe and Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe than Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Pha Ngan. 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 Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this small island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Pha Ngan?

Koh Lipe is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Pha Ngan?

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this small destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Pha Ngan?

Koh Lipe is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This party 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.

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

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 Pha Ngan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In July, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Lipe during the autumn 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 Pha Ngan year-round.

December to April is the dry season in Koh Lipe. May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lipe in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

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

December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. In January, Koh Lipe usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

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

Also, December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. May to October in Koh Lipe is the rainy season. Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Lipe