A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Krabi vs. Koh Lipe for Beaches, Couples, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Krabi or Koh Lipe?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Krabi and Koh Lipe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Krabi

Krabi is a colorful, stunning, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a local, tranquil, and idyllic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Krabi and Koh Lipe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Krabi and Koh Lipe are both popular with visitors, Koh Lipe has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Lipe is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Krabi is known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Krabi is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its easy access to inland adventures and nearby island hopping as well as its lively night market. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. It is also home to Sunrise Beach.

How is Krabi different from Koh Lipe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Krabi is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Krabi specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. In the area you'll find mountain top temples such as Wat Tham Suea and natural spots such as Khao Khanap Nam Cave. In town there's the stunning Wat Kaew Korawaram temple as well.

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.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Krabi and Koh Lipe can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Krabi. It's not particularly known for its culinary scene, but Krabi Town does have great street food and a lively night market. For some of the best restaurants, head to Chao Fah Road.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Lipe. 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 Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Nightlife?

Krabi is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Krabi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a decent live music scene, but in general the town is quiet at night. There's also a good night market.

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 Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lipe. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Krabi offers a few options. There's no real beach in town, so the better resorts are found at nearby beach towns.

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

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Krabi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe is not to be missed. 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.

Krabi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for the beache.

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.

You can check out the beach in Krabi. The town itself has no beach, so you'll need to take a day trip to nearby Railay Beach or Ao Nang.

Is Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Lipe. 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.

Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Krabi is a great destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Krabi is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town's night market is fun to explore. There's also the popular Krabi Town Walking Street (where you'll find the night market) as well as some larger stores and small malls near town.

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 Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Krabi or Koh Lipe.

Krabi is a very family-friendly destination. The town makes a great base for island hopping and exploring the province of Krabi. Nearby you'll find Krabi Fun Park, which includes a ropes course. There are also caves nearby to explore and plenty of stunning natural beauty.

Koh Lipe is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Krabi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There's easy access to many beautiful areas with caves, viewpoints, and beaches. Krabi Walking Street also has great restaurants and a lively night market.

Is Krabi or Koh Lipe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Krabi and Koh Lipe are both good destinations for backpackers.

Krabi is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a more local vibe, as many backpackers head on to Ao Nang or Railay Beach. You'll find affordable accommodation here though, as well as easy access to some great excursions.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Krabi and Koh Lipe.

Public transit is mostly limited in Krabi. There's no real public transit so you'll need to get around by rental car, motorbike, or songthaew truck (pickup trucks with seats in back).

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Krabi or Koh Lipe a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. 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.

Krabi is a somewhat walkable place. There's a walking street and a few parts of town that are relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Lipe or Krabi?

How long in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

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

Families should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Krabi. 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 Krabi. 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 Lipe than Krabi 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 Lipe.

One day in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

The town of Krabi offers food and shopping. 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.

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this idyllic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Krabi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Krabi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Krabi is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Koh Lipe is a fun place to experience. In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Krabi or Koh Lipe?

Krabi is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this local destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Krabi and Koh Lipe, we can see that Koh Lipe is more expensive. And not only is Krabi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Krabi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Krabi 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 Krabi.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Krabi Expensive? and Is Koh Lipe Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Krabi 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 Krabi or Koh Lipe in the Summer?

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

August to October is the rainy season in Krabi. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Lipe. Krabi gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Krabi is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe in the summer. The daily temperature in Krabi averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Koh Lipe in the Autumn?

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

December to March in Krabi is the dry season. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Krabi. 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 autumn. Krabi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Krabi usually receives more rain than Koh Lipe. Krabi gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Krabi is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Krabi in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Lipe averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Koh Lipe in the Winter?

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

Also, December to March in Krabi is the dry season. Krabi usually gets less rain in January than Koh Lipe. Krabi gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Krabi is generally around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Daily temperatures in Krabi average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Koh Lipe in the Spring?

Both Koh Lipe and Krabi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Krabi 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 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 Krabi. In April, Krabi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Lipe. Krabi gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Krabi is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe in the spring. The daily temperature in Krabi averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lipe and Krabi