A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Paihia for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Paihia?

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 Paihia 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. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Paihia

Paihia is a beautiful, relaxing, and fun-filled coastal town. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Koh Lipe and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Paihia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paihia. Although Koh Lipe and Paihia are popular destinations, Paihia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paihia is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Koh Lipe attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Paihia is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. It is also well known for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Koh Lipe is famous for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paihia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

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 Paihia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paihia 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, Paihia makes for a great culinary experience. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

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 Paihia Better for Nightlife?

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

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

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 Paihia Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paihia is not a resort destination.

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

Paihia is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lipe is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe. 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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Paihia. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Is Koh Lipe or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe and Paihia are first-rate 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 Paihia are among the best in the world. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Is Koh Lipe or Paihia Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Koh Lipe and Paihia.

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 Paihia for the hiking trails. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Paihia?

Paihia is very good for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Paihia is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. 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.

Is Koh Lipe or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paihia is one of the most popular family destinations. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Lipe is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Koh Lipe or Paihia Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lipe and Paihia are first-rate 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.

Paihia has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

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

Paihia 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 Paihia. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

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

Paihia 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 Paihia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

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 Paihia a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable island. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Paihia?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Lipe or Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Koh Lipe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The coastal town of Paihia offers museums and nightlife. 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 Paihia?

Koh Lipe is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Paihia 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 Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Paihia 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 Paihia, 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 Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local destination of Koh Lipe. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Paihia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Paihia, we can see that Koh Lipe is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Koh Lipe is in Asia and Paihia is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Paihia Expensive?.