A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Phuket vs. Koh Lipe for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Phuket or Koh Lipe?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Koh Lipe, 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 activity-filled, energetic, and party-hard resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe

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

Phuket and Koh Lipe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Koh Lipe are popular destinations, Phuket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phuket is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Koh Lipe attracts visitors for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is known 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 Lipe is famous for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Phuket different from Koh Lipe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Lipe 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 Lipe?

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

Koh Lipe offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Koh Lipe 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 Lipe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Phuket or Koh Lipe Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Phuket is a world class party destination. 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.

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 Phuket or Koh Lipe Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Phuket is a perfect choice. 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.

Koh Lipe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

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

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel to Koh Lipe specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Is Phuket or Koh Lipe Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Koh Lipe have terrific 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 Lipe is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Is Phuket or Koh Lipe Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Phuket is very good for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Phuket is a great destination for shopping. 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 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 Phuket or Koh Lipe Better for Families?

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

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 Lipe Better for Couples?

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

Koh Lipe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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 Lipe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

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

Phuket is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

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

Is Phuket or Koh Lipe a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable island. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Lipe or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Both Phuket and Koh Lipe have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Koh Lipe has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Lipe than Phuket. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Phuket or Koh Lipe?

The resort island of Phuket offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Koh Lipe. 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 Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Phuket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Koh Lipe 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 Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Lipe. 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 Phuket or Koh Lipe?

Phuket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phuket has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tranquil destination of Koh Lipe. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Lipe, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lipe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Lipe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lipe 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 Lipe.

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 Lipe Expensive?.

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Lipe in the Summer?

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Lipe. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Lipe in the Autumn?

Both Koh Lipe and Phuket during the autumn 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 Lipe year-round.

December to March is the dry season in Phuket. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. December to April is the dry season in Koh Lipe. May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Koh Lipe. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Lipe in the Winter?

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

December to March in Phuket is the dry season. In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Koh Lipe. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Phuket is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Lipe averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Koh Lipe in the Spring?

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

June to October in Phuket is the rainy season. Also, December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. May to October in Koh Lipe is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Koh Lipe. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lipe and Phuket