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

Should you visit Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Atami and Koh Pha Ngan 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.

Atami

Atami is a overlooked, nostalgic, and authentic town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Atami travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a party-oriented, high energy, and funky party island. The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Atami and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Atami and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atami attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Atami and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Atami is famous for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

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

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

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

Atami is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Atami and Koh Pha Ngan.

Atami has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Pha Ngan area. 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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Atami is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Atami is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for the beach. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Is Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Atami is not a hiking destination.

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.

Atami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Atami is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Atami is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Both Atami and Koh Pha Ngan are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Atami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Pha Ngan is extremely popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

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

Atami 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 Atami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Atami and Koh Pha Ngan are nice when it comes to walkability.

Atami is a somewhat walkable place. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Atami Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Atami 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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Atami, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this high energy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

Atami is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the overlooked destination of Atami. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

Atami is a popular place to visit. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atami and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Atami is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Atami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atami 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 Atami Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

Atami has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Atami 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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan?

Atami 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 Atami or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Atami during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atami in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In July, Atami is generally around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Atami average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atami. Atami usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Atami gets 202 mm (8 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atami and Koh Pha Ngan. Most visitors come to Atami for the shopping scene during these months. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Atami is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atami averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Atami usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Atami gets 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Atami as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The winter months attract visitors to Atami because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In the winter, Atami is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atami in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Atami usually gets more rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Atami gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Atami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Atami this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Atami is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Atami average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite rainy in Atami. In April, Atami usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Atami gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Atami