A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Queenstown for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Khao Lak or Queenstown?

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 Queenstown 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. You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a adventure-filled, outdoorsy, and nature-oriented city. Queenstown is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Queenstown travel costs.

Khao Lak and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Queenstown?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Queenstown. Although Khao Lak and Queenstown are both popular with visitors, Queenstown has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Queenstown is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Khao Lak is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Queenstown is popular for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. It is also home to Kawarau Bridge.

How is Khao Lak different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Queenstown is an amazing city to visit for winter skiing. However, Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Queenstown. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

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

Queenstown is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Queenstown offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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 Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Queenstown 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 Queenstown have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

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 Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Queenstown is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Queenstown know how to have a good time. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Queenstown is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Queenstown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Queenstown?

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

Queenstown is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

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 Queenstown More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and 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.

The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its mountains and surrounding beauty, this is a breathtakingly beautiful city.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Queenstown 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, Queenstown is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Queenstown are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Queenstown is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Queenstown is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Queenstown is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Many 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.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown Better for Students?

Queenstown is a great destination for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Queenstown. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Khao Lak and Queenstown.

You'll find some public transit in Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

While Queenstown offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Is Khao Lak or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Queenstown is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Queenstown is very walkable. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Queenstown?

Both Khao Lak and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Queenstown has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Queenstown than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

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

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

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

One day in Khao Lak or Queenstown?

With shopping and nightlife around the serene area of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Queenstown offers nightlife and food. 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 Queenstown?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Queenstown 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Queenstown?

Khao Lak, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Queenstown is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, 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 Queenstown?

Khao Lak is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Queenstown is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer. 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 Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Queenstown, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Queenstown much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Khao Lak is in Asia and Queenstown is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Queenstown would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Queenstown 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 Queenstown.

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 Queenstown Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Queenstown?

Queenstown has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Queenstown, 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.