A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Samui vs. Koh Lanta for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Lanta? 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a quiet, beautiful, and off-the-beaten-path island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Samui and Koh Lanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Koh Lanta are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Koh Lanta is known for its museums. Koh Samui is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Koh Lanta is popular for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Samui different from Koh Lanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Lanta is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Koh Lanta can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Lanta makes for a great culinary experience. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Koh Samui just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Lanta has a few options to choose from. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

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

There's excellent scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Koh Samui and Koh Lanta.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Koh Lanta are terrific 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, Koh Lanta is a very popular vacation destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Koh Lanta both have excellent 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.

Koh Lanta is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

Koh Samui is a resort island with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Koh Samui offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Families?

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

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.

Koh Lanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta Better for Couples?

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

Koh Lanta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

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 Koh Lanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Koh Samui is a great resort island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Samui, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lanta a more walkable city?

Koh Samui is a resort island with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable resort island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Lanta or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

In either Koh Samui or Koh Lanta, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than Koh Lanta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-5 days is enough time in Koh Lanta.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Koh Lanta. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Koh Samui. 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.

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

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Koh Samui. 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 resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the peaceful destination of Koh Lanta. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lush resort island of Koh Samui. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the tranquil island of Koh Lanta. 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. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

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

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Samui and Koh Lanta, we can see that Koh Samui 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Koh Lanta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Koh Lanta?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Koh Lanta, 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 Koh Lanta?

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 Koh Lanta in the Summer?

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

June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in July than Koh Lanta. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Lanta in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February. The rainy season in Koh Samui is October to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In October, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Koh Lanta. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Lanta in the Winter?

Both Koh Lanta and Koh Samui during the winter 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 Koh Lanta year-round.

December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. Koh Samui usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Koh Lanta. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Koh Samui is cooler than Koh Lanta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Lanta averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Lanta in the Spring?

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

January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Koh Lanta. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Koh Lanta. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Koh Lanta fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lanta and Koh Samui