A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Bali for Food, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Similan Islands or Bali?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Bali 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Similan Islands and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Bali?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bali than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bali is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Bali? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Bali have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Nightlife?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Bali has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Resorts?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Similan Islands and Bali offer amazing scuba diving or snorkeling.

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Beaches?

Both Similan Islands and Bali are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Hiking?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Similan Islands offers some nice hiking trails. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Bali?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bali is well-known for its shopping. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Families?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bali is very family-friendly. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Couples?

Both Similan Islands and Bali are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bali is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Bali Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Bali a more walkable city?

Similan Islands is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable place. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island chain. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Bali?

Similan Islands and Bali both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bali than Similan Islands because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 7-14 days is enough time in Bali.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Similan Islands 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 Bali.

One day in Similan Islands or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The spiritual destination of Bali offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Bali?

Similan Islands is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The island of Bali offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Similan Islands or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the remote destination of Similan Islands. This island chain offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bali is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it.

A week in Similan Islands or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote island chain of Similan Islands. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

The cultural island of Bali offers shopping and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Bali?

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 Similan Islands or Bali in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Bali. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Bali. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Bali. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 253 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Bali in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Bali in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Bali is October to March. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Bali. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

It's quite sunny in Bali. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bali during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 266 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Bali. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Bali in the Winter?

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

October to March is the rainy season in Bali. Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Bali. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Bali. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 170 hours of full sun.

In January, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Bali. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Bali in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Bali. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands. April to September in Bali is the dry season. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Bali. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Bali during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Bali in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Similan Islands