A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Khao Lak vs. Hat Yai for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Hat Yai 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a idyllic, serene, and laid back area. You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a lively, festive, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hat Yai travel costs.

Khao Lak and Hat Yai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hat Yai than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hat Yai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples. Also, Hat Yai is famous for Wat Hat Yai Nai.

How is Khao Lak different from Hat Yai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hat Yai and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Hat Yai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hat Yai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Hat Yai has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Hat Yai has a few options to choose from. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is notable for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

In Khao Lak, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Khao Lak is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Hat Yai is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Families?

Khao Lak is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is notable for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Khao Lak is a very popular area for backpackers and budget travelers. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a area with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Khao Lak or Hat Yai a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Hat Yai both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable area. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hat Yai or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Hat Yai. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Hat Yai. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hat Yai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Hat Yai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak than Hat Yai 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Hat Yai offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Hat Yai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hat Yai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hat Yai is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hat Yai is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Hat Yai Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Hat Yai, 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 Khao Lak or Hat Yai?

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 Khao Lak or Hat Yai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Hat Yai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hat Yai during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hat Yai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Hat Yai. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season. May to December in Hat Yai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 182 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Hat Yai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hat Yai fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hat Yai in the Winter?

Both Hat Yai and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hat Yai is January to April. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. In January, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Hat Yai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Hat Yai during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 221 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hat Yai in the Spring?

Both Hat Yai and Khao Lak during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hat Yai. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 265 hours of full sun.

In April, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 30°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Hat Yai and Khao Lak