A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Samui vs. Hat Yai for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hat Yai? 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 laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Samui as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a festive, colorful, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Hat Yai travel costs.

Koh Samui and Hat Yai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Hat Yai are popular destinations, Koh Samui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Samui is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hat Yai attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Samui is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also well known for The Big Buddha Temple. Hat Yai is famous for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Koh Samui different from Hat Yai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hat Yai. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hat Yai is an amazing city 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, Hat Yai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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 Hat Yai Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Koh Samui is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai is a great city 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 Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

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 Hat Yai More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Samui as well. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Families?

Koh Samui is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Samui is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is notable for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Samui is a very popular resort island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Koh Samui is a resort island with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Koh Samui or Hat Yai a more walkable city?

Koh Samui and Hat Yai are reasonable 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.

Hat Yai is generally not very walkable. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Hat Yai or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Samui and Hat Yai. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Hat Yai. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hat Yai.

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

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hat Yai. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hat Yai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

In Koh Samui, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hat Yai. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the festive city of Hat Yai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

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

Hat Yai is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand, The Best Yoga Tours and Retreats in Thailand, and The Best Honeymoon Tours in Thailand.

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

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 Hat Yai Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Hat Yai, 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 Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai in the Summer?

Both Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai year-round.

Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in July than Hat Yai. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Samui is cooler than Hat Yai in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Hat Yai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hat Yai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Hat Yai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Hat Yai 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, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai. Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Hat Yai. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Koh Samui is cooler than Hat Yai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Samui in October average around 24°C (75°F), and Hat Yai averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hat Yai in the Winter?

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

Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in January than Hat Yai. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 22°C (72°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hat Yai in the Spring?

Both Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

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

Koh Samui is cooler than Hat Yai in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in April, and Hat Yai fluctuates around 30°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Hat Yai and Koh Samui