A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Hoi An for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Hoi An?

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 Hoi An 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 remote, spectacular, and idyllic island chain. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a beautiful, traditional, and quaint town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Similan Islands and Hoi An: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hoi An. Although Similan Islands and Hoi An are popular destinations, Hoi An has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hoi An is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Similan Islands attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also well known for the Fukian Assembly Hall. Similan Islands is famous for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Hoi An?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Hoi An is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Many restaurants in Hoi An have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

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 Hoi An Better for Nightlife?

Hoi An is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hoi An. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

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 Hoi An Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Similan Islands. 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.

Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hoi An Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is terrific for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

Similan Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Is Similan Islands or Hoi An Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Hoi An Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

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

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Hoi An draws large crowds to its stores. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hoi An Better for Families?

Hoi An 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, Hoi An is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

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 Hoi An Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is terrific for romance. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Similan Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Similan Islands or Hoi An Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hoi An is extremely popular for backpackers. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

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

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

Hoi An has some public transit options. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

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 Hoi An a more walkable city?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hoi An. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hoi An or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Similan Islands and Hoi An. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than in Hoi An. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hoi An.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

One day in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Similan Islands. 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.

The peaceful destination of Hoi An offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Hoi An?

Similan Islands 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.

The town of Hoi An offers museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. 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.

Hoi An is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Hoi An?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote destination of Similan Islands. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Hoi An, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

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 Hoi An Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Hoi An?

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 Similan Islands or Hoi An in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September. The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Hoi An during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Hoi An receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Hoi An. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Hoi An fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hoi An in the Autumn?

Both Hoi An and Similan Islands during the autumn 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 Hoi An year-round.

October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets less rain in October than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hoi An receives 158 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Hoi An in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hoi An fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hoi An in the Winter?

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

February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An. Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Hoi An during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Hoi An receives 136 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Hoi An. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hoi An averages at about 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hoi An in the Spring?

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

Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in April than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Hoi An. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hoi An receives 210 hours of full sun.

In April, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Hoi An. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Hoi An fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Hoi An and Similan Islands