A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Tarutao vs. Khao Lak for Beaches, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a beautiful, undiscovered, and secluded island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Khao Lak than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Khao Lak is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its hiking. Khao Lak is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Also, Khao Lak is famous for Khao Sok National Park. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Khao Lak?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Neither Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Tarutao. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Khao Lak offers a few options for museum-goers. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Khao Lak is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Khao Lak. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak both offer fantastic beaches.

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Khao Lak has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Khao Lak. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Khao Lak has some public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Tarutao is generally not a very walkable island. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Khao Lak or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Both Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 5-7 days is enough time in Khao Lak.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak than Koh Tarutao 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

The beautiful island of Koh Tarutao offers . 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly area of Khao Lak. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Koh Tarutao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tarutao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the friendly destination of Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This area offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Koh Tarutao is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed area of Khao Lak. 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.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Khao Lak. 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. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this area.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, and The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak, we can see that Khao Lak 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 Tarutao Expensive? and Is Khao Lak Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak?

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 Tarutao or Khao Lak in the Summer?

Both Khao Lak and Koh Tarutao during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round.

Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Khao Lak. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Khao Lak. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak in the Winter?

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

Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in January than Khao Lak. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Khao Lak in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Khao Lak in the Spring?

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

The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 29°C (83°F).

Typical Weather for Khao Lak and Koh Tarutao