A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Pattaya vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a vibrant, high energy, and colorful resort city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

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 nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Pattaya 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 beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pattaya attracts visitors for its museums, food, resorts, and shopping. Pattaya is famous for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. 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 Pattaya 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 Pattaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Pattaya is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pattaya 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, Pattaya makes for a great culinary experience. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan.

Pattaya is a must-see party destination. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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

Is Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is well known for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pattaya. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

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.

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

Both Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan offer nice scuba diving or snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great party island for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. 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.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

Pattaya is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Pattaya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Pattaya is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Pattaya is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pattaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good resort city for couples to visit. 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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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

Pattaya 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 Pattaya, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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

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

How long in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Pattaya because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Pattaya 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Pattaya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this high energy resort city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This party island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant destination of Pattaya. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Pha Ngan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

Pattaya is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Koh Pha Ngan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chiang Mai, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Bangkok.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Pattaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pattaya 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 Pattaya Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya 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.

When is the best time to visit Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Pattaya. In October, Pattaya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

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

December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Pattaya is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pattaya in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Pattaya or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Koh Pha Ngan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya. In April, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 30°C (86°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Pattaya