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

Should you visit Picton 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 Picton 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.

Picton

Picton is a relaxing, picturesque, and scenic 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 food.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a high energy, funky, and beautiful party island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Picton and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan than Picton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Pha Ngan is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Picton is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and small town charm. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Picton and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for the Full Moon Parties. Picton is well known for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Picton 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 Picton. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

Picton 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, Picton makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

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

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. 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.

Picton is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for the beach. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Koh Pha Ngan offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Is Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

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

Picton is a popular spot for hiking. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Picton is a great destination for shopping. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

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

Picton is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Picton is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Picton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for backpackers. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular party island to visit 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.

Picton is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

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

Picton 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 Picton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Picton is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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.

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

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

How long in Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Picton 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 Picton because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Picton, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Picton than Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Picton 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 Picton 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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Picton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

Picton is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Picton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

Picton 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 funky 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Family-Friendly 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 Picton and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Picton is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Picton 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 Picton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Picton 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 Picton Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Picton 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 Picton or Koh Pha Ngan?

Picton has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Picton or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Picton and Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Picton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the summer, Picton is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Picton in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in July.

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Picton usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Nganin July. Picton gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Picton as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors come to Picton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In April, Picton is generally much colder than Koh Pha Nganin October. Daily temperatures in Picton average around 15°C (58°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Picton usually gets less rain in April than Koh Pha Nganin October. Picton gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. October and November in Koh Pha Ngan is the rainy season.

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Picton are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Picton is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Picton averages around 10°C (49°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Picton. In July, Picton usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Nganin January. Picton gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March.

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Picton during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches and the small town charm. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the spring, Picton is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Picton in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in April.

Picton usually gets more rain in October than Koh Pha Nganin April. Picton gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Picton