A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Milford Sound for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Milford Sound? 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 beautiful, tropical, and rainforest-covered resort island. Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a iconic, breathtaking, and world renowned fiord. Many visitors also come to Milford Sound because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the skiing and hiking. See Milford Sound travel costs.

Koh Samui and Milford Sound: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Milford Sound are popular destinations, Koh Samui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Samui is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Milford Sound attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Milford Sound and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also well known for The Big Buddha Temple. Milford Sound is famous for its iconic hiking trails, stunning boat tours, and dramatic mountains.

How is Koh Samui different from Milford Sound?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Skiing?

Milford Sound is a great fiord for skiing. However, Koh Samui is not a skiing destination.

Milford Sound draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. Many locals head to the snow-capped peaks to enjoy skiing, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, a ski tour is your best option.

Koh Samui is not a skiing destination.

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

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Milford Sound is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. You'll find a restaurant or two in the small town of Milford Sound. Your best option is the Milford Sound Lodge. In the park you'll want to come prepared with your own food. Many organized tours include a picnic lunch.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for its evening party scene. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Milford Sound. Things get quiet at night and there's little in the form of nightlife.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Koh Samui for its luxury resorts. 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.

Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milford Sound is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Milford Sound is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for the beach. However, Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Hiking?

Milford Sound is an amazing fiord to visit for hiking. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Milford Sound specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The Milford Track has long been considered one of the world's best hikes. It's also, arguably, the most famous hike in New Zealand. The 53 kilometer trek takes you from Lake Te Anau through stunning scenery, alpine settings, and across spectacular suspension bridges.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Koh Samui is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of amazing scenery and beauty in both Koh Samui and Milford Sound.

Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

You'll find world class beauty in Milford Sound as well. This is one of the most spectacular natural settings in New Zealand. The remoteness, combined with the mountains, waterfalls, and stunning views make this a true bucket list destination.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Milford Sound.

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.

Milford Sound is a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wonders will impress the kids as much as the adults. There are shorter walks that are family-friendly and the boat rides are also fun for the whole family. You can take a scenic flight or visit the stunning Mirror Lakes. This really is a playground for both kids and adults.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Milford Sound make for a superb place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Milford Sound is a very popular place to visit for couples. This is one of the most stunning natural areas in the world, and the romance comes from the spectacular beauty, world class hikes, and breathtaking surroundings that will leave you awed and inspired.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milford Sound is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Milford Sound. The area's remoteness and high price tag make it a bit challenging for backpackers and budget travelers. If you have plenty of time and enough money, it is truly a not to be missed destination.

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

Koh Samui is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its public transit.

Koh Samui has some 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 generally limited in Milford Sound. There are buses in the area, but private vehicles or organized tours are your best option for getting around.

Is Koh Samui or Milford Sound a more walkable city?

Koh Samui is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its 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.

Milford Sound is not a walkable resort island. This is one of the most remote places in New Zealand so you really must have a car or organized transportation to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Milford Sound or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Koh Samui and Milford Sound both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Samui than Milford Sound because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-6 days is enough time in Milford Sound.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Milford Sound. 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 Milford Sound. 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 Milford Sound 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 Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Samui. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find skiing around the fiord of Milford Sound. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Milford Sound?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find skiing around the world renowned destination of Milford Sound. 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 fiord has to offer. This fiord offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Koh Samui. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find skiing around the iconic fiord of Milford Sound. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this fiord makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this fiord has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful resort island of Koh Samui. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Milford Sound is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Milford Sound, we can see that Milford Sound is more expensive. And not only is Koh Samui much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koh Samui is in Asia and Milford Sound is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Milford Sound would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milford Sound 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 Milford Sound Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Milford Sound?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Milford Sound. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Milford Sound, 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.