A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Singapore for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Singapore?

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 Singapore 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 laid back, relaxed, and friendly area. You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Singapore

Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Singapore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Singapore travel costs.

Khao Lak and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Singapore?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Singapore than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Singapore is better known for its museums and attractions, food, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Also, Singapore is famous for Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Khao Lak different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore 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 Singapore?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Singapore. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.

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 Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore 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 Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

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 Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak
Singapore

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Singapore 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 Singapore has a few options to choose from. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

Is Khao Lak or Singapore Better for Music?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Khao Lak is not a live music destination.

Singapore is a world class music destination. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Khao Lak is not a live music destination.


Is Khao Lak or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Singapore is a world class resort vacation destination. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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.

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

Khao Lak
Singapore

Khao Lak is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Singapore is a mediocre city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Most people don't go snorkeling in Singapore. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Is Khao Lak or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. 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.

Many people head to Singapore to enjoy the beach. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.


Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Singapore?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Singapore is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

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 Singapore More Beautiful?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Singapore 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.

Singapore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Is Khao Lak or Singapore Better for Families?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Khao Lak is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Khao Lak or Singapore Better for Couples?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Both Khao Lak and Singapore are terrific 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.

Singapore is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

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

Khao Lak
Singapore

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

Singapore is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

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 Singapore Better for Students?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.


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

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Singapore is top-notch. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Singapore a more walkable city?

Khao Lak
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Singapore on foot is easy. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

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 Singapore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Singapore?

Both Khao Lak and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Singapore has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Singapore 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 Singapore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore 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 Singapore.


  • How many days in Khao Lak or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Khao Lak 5-7 
    Singapore 2-7

One day in Khao Lak or Singapore?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Singapore is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Singapore?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Singapore 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Singapore?

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid back area of Khao Lak. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer.

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

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore 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 Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Khao Lak?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Khao Lak is $155, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $179. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Khao Lak and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Khao Lak $59
    Singapore $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Khao Lak $118
    Singapore $202
Compare Hotels in Khao Lak and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Khao Lak or Singapore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Khao Lak


Hotels in Singapore


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Khao Lak Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Khao Lak $60
    Singapore $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Khao Lak

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Khao Lak:

  • 30-Minutes Guided Tour & Transfer to Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary: $48
  • Private Transfer from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak: $51
  • 2-Hour Guided Eco-Tour & Transfer to Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary: $73
  • Transfer from Khao Lak Hotel to Phuket Airport: $75
  • Khao Lak River Tubing with Music, Drink, and Transfer: $95
  • Carnival Magic Phuket Show Ticket with Transfer from Khao Lak: $97
  • Private Transfer from Khao Lak to Phuket (HKT) Airport: $110
  • Transfer Service from Khao Lak Hotel to Krabi / Aonang: $119
  • Similan Island Snorkeling Adventure -Full-Day Tour with Transfers: $137
  • Khao Lak any hotel to Koh Lanta any hotel Private transfer: $198
  • Private Transfer Between Ko Lanta and Khao Lak: $242

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Singapore:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • 13 Seater Minibus Airport / City Transfer in Singapore: $76
  • 7 Seater Airport / City Transfer Singapore: $68
  • Airport Transfer: $85
  • Airport Transfer: SIN Airport to Singapore by Luxury Van: $120
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore to SIN Airport by Business Car: $102
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore to SIN Airport by Luxury Car: $157
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore to SIN Airport by Luxury Van: $120
  • Airport to Hotel Transfer in Singapore: $80
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer to Singapore/Johor Bahru: $24
  • City Experience + Roundtrip Transfers: $31
  • Harbourfront Cruise Center, Singapore to Kuala Lumpur Hotel (Door to Door) Transfer: $215
  • Lion City Night Out + Roundtrip Transfers: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Khao Lak or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Khao Lak change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Khao Lak $61
    Singapore $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Khao Lak

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Khao Lak.

  • Thai Cooking Class in Khao Lak by Amazon Prime Series Chef: $59
  • Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class: $65
  • Khao Lak Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour & Your Own Menu: $89
  • Authentic Thai Cooking in Khao Lak – Market Tour & Flexible Menu: $89
  • Khao Sok Local Life Adventure & Traditional Cooking Class: $102
  • ATV Quad Bike Excursion to Stunning Waterfalls with Dinner: $111

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:


  • Breakfast
    $4.75
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Singapore.

  • Chinatown Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $49
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $54
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $55
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $58
  • Authentic Singapore Street Food Tour: $60
  • Plant-Based Food Tour with Local Guide: $61
  • Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $68
  • Hawker Center Street Food Tour with Guide: $69
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $70
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $70
  • Hawker Culture Food Tour and Sightseeing: $75
  • Eat and Snap in Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Khao Lak $22
    Singapore $34

Tours and Activities in Khao Lak

Here are a few actual costs in Khao Lak for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Khao Lak Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Conservation Experience: $25
  • Bamboo Rafting and Sea Turtle Conservation Center Half Day Tour From Khao Lak: $43
  • Guide Tour to Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary in Small Group: $52
  • 1-Hour Guided Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary Observation Tour: $57
  • Sky Rock Khaolak Jungle Adventure: $68
  • Historical And Cultural Day Tour To Takuapa Old Town From Khao Lak: $69
  • Full-Day Temple Tour Including Dragon Cave from Khao Lak: $76
  • James Bond Island Adventure Tour from Khao Lak including Sea Canoeing & Lunch: $77
  • Khao Lak Eco Exploration Raft Ride & Discover Tour: $80
  • Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary Visit & River Tubing Tour: $80
  • 30 Minutes Khaolak ATV Quadbike & Waterfall Adventure: $80
  • Half day Bamboo Rafting Tour with Lunch: $80

Tours and Activities in Singapore

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:

  • Artoholic A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Follow the Money: A self-guided audio tour of Singapore's Financial District: $5.00
  • Peranakan Museum Admission Ticket: $6.54
  • The Civic District with Singapore Boy Hossan Leong: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Science Center E-Ticket: $7.47
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $7.78
  • Gardens by the Bay Bundle Entry Ticket: $7.78
  • Outdoor Audio Tour at Gardens by the Bay: $8.27
  • BikingSG Best of Take in the sights on a relaxed audio cycling tour: $8.31
  • Singapore Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $8.40
  • National Orchid Garden Entry Tickets: $8.40
  • Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $8.51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Khao Lak $15
    Singapore $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Singapore:

  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $30
  • Singapore Pub Crawl: $36
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $39
  • Brass Lion Gin Distillery Tour Ticket: $41
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $77
  • LeVeL33 Craft-Brewery Restaurant & Lounge Package: $193


When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Singapore, we can see that Singapore 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Singapore Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 2090 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Singapore, 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.