A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paihia vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

Paihia

Paihia is a beautiful, relaxing, and fun-filled coastal town. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a party-oriented, high energy, and funky party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Paihia attracts visitors for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Paihia is famous for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties.

How is Paihia different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Paihia is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Paihia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paihia is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Paihia makes for a great culinary experience. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Paihia is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Paihia is not a resort destination.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Paihia. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan both offer first-rate beaches.

Paihia offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan, and they are high quality.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Paihia. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Paihia is very good for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Paihia is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Paihia is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Paihia is one of the most popular family destinations. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Paihia is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Paihia has plenty to offer. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Pha Ngan is extremely popular for backpackers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Paihia is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paihia is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Paihia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan are nice when it comes to walkability.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable coastal town. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Paihia Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Paihia?

How long in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paihia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paihia than Koh Pha Ngan. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Paihia than Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paihia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Paihia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun-filled coastal town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Paihia is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Paihia, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Paihia is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Paihia is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paihia is in Pacific and Koh Pha Ngan is in Asia, 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 Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Paihia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paihia than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Which is Bigger, Paihia or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Paihia and Koh Pha Ngan, 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.