A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Milford Sound for Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

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 Milford Sound 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 serene, laid back, and relaxed area. Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a remote, iconic, and breathtaking fiord. The famous beauty of Milford Sound is one of the main draws. It's also known for skiing and hiking. See Milford Sound travel costs.

Khao Lak and Milford Sound: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Khao Lak than Milford Sound, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Khao Lak is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Milford Sound is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Khao Lak is more touristy than Milford Sound and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Also, Khao Lak is famous for Khao Sok National Park. Milford Sound is well known for its iconic hiking trails, stunning boat tours, and dramatic mountains.

How is Khao Lak different from Milford Sound?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Skiing?

Milford Sound is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Milford Sound is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Many locals head to the snow-capped peaks to enjoy skiing, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, a ski tour is your best option.

Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Khao Lak is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Milford Sound? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Khao Lak is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

While Milford Sound is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. You'll find a restaurant or two in the small town of Milford Sound. Your best option is the Milford Sound Lodge. In the park you'll want to come prepared with your own food. Many organized tours include a picnic lunch.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Khao Lak. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Milford Sound. Things get quiet at night and there's little in the form of nightlife.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milford Sound is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. 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.

Milford Sound is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is an amazing area to visit for the beach. However, Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Hiking?

Milford Sound is an amazing fiord to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Milford Sound visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The Milford Track has long been considered one of the world's best hikes. It's also, arguably, the most famous hike in New Zealand. The 53 kilometer trek takes you from Lake Te Anau through stunning scenery, alpine settings, and across spectacular suspension bridges.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Khao Lak has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound More Beautiful?

Khao Lak and Milford Sound both are comparable with their fantastic scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Khao Lak is one of the main draws. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Many visitors also come to Milford Sound because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most spectacular natural settings in New Zealand. The remoteness, combined with the mountains, waterfalls, and stunning views make this a true bucket list destination.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Milford Sound are very good to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Milford Sound is very family-friendly. The outdoor wonders will impress the kids as much as the adults. There are shorter walks that are family-friendly and the boat rides are also fun for the whole family. You can take a scenic flight or visit the stunning Mirror Lakes. This really is a playground for both kids and adults.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an amazing area to visit for couples. Also, Milford Sound is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Couples visit Milford Sound frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This is one of the most stunning natural areas in the world, and the romance comes from the spectacular beauty, world class hikes, and breathtaking surroundings that will leave you awed and inspired.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milford Sound is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Milford Sound. The area's remoteness and high price tag make it a bit challenging for backpackers and budget travelers. If you have plenty of time and enough money, it is truly a not to be missed destination.

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

Khao Lak is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its public transit.

Khao Lak has some 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 generally limited in Milford Sound. There are buses in the area, but private vehicles or organized tours are your best option for getting around.

Is Khao Lak or Milford Sound a more walkable city?

Khao Lak is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Milford Sound is not a walkable area. This is one of the most remote places in New Zealand so you really must have a car or organized transportation to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Milford Sound or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Khao Lak and Milford Sound both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Khao Lak than Milford Sound because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-6 days is enough time in Milford Sound.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Milford Sound. 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 Milford Sound. 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 Milford Sound 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 Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the serene destination of Khao Lak. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful fiord of Milford Sound offers skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Milford Sound is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this fiord makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milford Sound, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly destination of Khao Lak. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Milford Sound is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milford Sound, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Milford Sound is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This fiord 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Milford Sound, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Khao Lak is in Asia and Milford Sound is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Milford Sound Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Milford Sound?

Khao Lak has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Milford Sound. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Milford Sound, 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.