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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi? 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 tropical, rainforest-covered, and lush resort island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning 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 Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Koh Phi Phi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its museums and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Koh Samui is known for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Koh Samui is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Koh Phi Phi is popular for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also home to Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay.

How is Koh Samui different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Samui has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Koh Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi offer a relatively similar set of first-rate 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, Koh Phi Phi is a perfect choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

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

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

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 Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi are first-rate 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 Phi Phi is a very popular vacation destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi both have high quality 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 Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

Koh Samui is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Koh Samui. 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.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Koh Samui is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Samui is very family-friendly. 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 Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

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 Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Koh Phi Phi, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

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

Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi 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.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Koh Phi Phi is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable island. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

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 Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical resort island of Koh Samui. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 island of Koh Phi Phi. 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the rainforest-covered destination of Koh Samui. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This resort island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the lush resort island of Koh Samui. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic island of Koh Phi Phi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Samui. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this resort island.

Koh Phi Phi 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Phi Phi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

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

Both Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui during the autumn 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 Phi Phi year-round.

December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi. Koh Phi Phi 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 less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

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

December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. In January, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Koh Samui is cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

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

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

May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui