A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Bali for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Koh Samui or Bali?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Bali? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Bali?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bali. Although Koh Samui and Bali are both popular with visitors, Bali has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Bali is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also home to Pura Lempuyang.

How is Koh Samui different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Bali? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find world-class options in both Koh Samui and Bali.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Bali is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui and Bali offer a relatively similar set of world-class luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Bali are world-class choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Samui. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Bali both have great trails.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Bali?

Bali is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Bali.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Bali is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Couples?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for romance.

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Is Koh Samui or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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

Koh Samui and Bali both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Koh Samui or Bali a more walkable city?

Koh Samui and Bali are decent when it comes to walkability.

Koh Samui is generally not a very walkable resort island. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

Bali is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Bali?

Both Koh Samui and Bali have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bali than Koh Samui. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 5-7 days is enough time in Bali.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Koh Samui 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 Bali.

One day in Koh Samui or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Samui. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Bali. 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.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Bali?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bali. 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.

Five days in Koh Samui or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the laid back destination of Koh Samui. This resort island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the spiritual island of Bali. 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.

A week in Koh Samui or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the rainforest-covered resort island of Koh Samui. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Bali?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Bali, 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 Samui or Bali?

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 Samui or Bali in the Summer?

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

April to September is the dry season in Bali. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in July than Bali. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Bali. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Bali in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Bali. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. Also, October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Bali. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Koh Samui is cooler than Bali in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Bali in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Bali. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in January than Bali. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Koh Samui is cooler than Bali. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Bali averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Bali in the Spring?

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

The dry season in Bali is April to September. In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Bali. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Bali. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Koh Samui