A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Samui vs. Koh Lipe for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Koh Lipe?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Lipe? 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Samui and Koh Lipe: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Koh Lipe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Koh Lipe is more popular for its museums and scuba diving & snorkeling. Koh Samui is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Koh Lipe is well known for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Samui different from Koh Lipe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui 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, 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.

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 Samui or Koh Lipe Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

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 Samui or Koh Lipe Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Samui is a perfect 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.

Koh Lipe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

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

Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

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 Koh Lipe Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Koh Lipe 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, 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.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lipe Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Koh Lipe 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.

Koh Lipe is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Koh Lipe?

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

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.

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 Samui or Koh Lipe Better for Families?

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

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 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.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lipe Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 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 Lipe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui 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 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.

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

Koh Samui 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 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 mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Lipe a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a great island for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

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

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

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

How long in Koh Samui or Koh Lipe?

Both Koh Samui and Koh Lipe have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Koh Samui has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Koh Samui than Koh Lipe. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Koh Lipe?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

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

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the idyllic destination of Koh Lipe. 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 Koh Lipe?

Koh Samui is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Samui, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Samui has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe, 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 Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Koh Lipe, we can see that Koh Lipe 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 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 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 Koh Lipe Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Samui or Koh Lipe?

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 Lipe in the Summer?

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

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

In the summer, Koh Samui is cooler than Koh Lipe. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Samui in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Koh Lipe averages at about 27°C (81°F).

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

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

In October, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Koh Lipe. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (75°F), and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

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

Both Koh Lipe 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 Lipe year-round.

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

Koh Samui is cooler than Koh Lipe in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 22°C (72°F) in January, and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

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

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

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

In the spring, Koh Samui is cooler than Koh Lipe. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Samui in April average around 24°C (76°F), and Koh Lipe averages at about 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lipe and Koh Samui