A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Phuket vs. Koh Chang for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Phuket or Koh Chang?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Koh Chang, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a stunning, activity-filled, and energetic resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a tranquil, scenic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Phuket and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Koh Chang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Koh Chang are popular destinations, Phuket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phuket is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also well known for The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Phuket different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Koh Chang?

Koh Chang is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Koh Chang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Koh Chang can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Koh Chang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is very popular for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Phuket is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Phuket is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Phuket to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Koh Chang have amazing beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in the world. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Koh Chang?

Phuket is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Phuket. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Koh Chang is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a great destination for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Chang is a great island to visit for backpackers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Koh Chang.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Koh Chang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Phuket or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Phuket is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Phuket is somewhat walkable. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Koh Chang?

In either Phuket or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than Koh Chang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang than Phuket 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 Chang.

One day in Phuket or Koh Chang?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Koh Chang?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the activity-filled destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Phuket or Koh Chang?

You'll find nightlife and food around the energetic resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Phuket or Koh Chang?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tranquil destination of Koh Chang. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

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

When is the best time to visit Phuket or Koh Chang?

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 Phuket or Koh Chang in the Summer?

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

It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the summer, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Koh Chang. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Phuket is December to March. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Phuket usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang during autumn. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Chang in the Winter?

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

December to March is the dry season in Phuket. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. Phuket usually gets more rain in January than Koh Chang. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the winter, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Phuket is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Chang in the Spring?

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

Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang during spring. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Phuket