A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Picton for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Picton?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Picton 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a peaceful, quiet, and beautiful island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lanta as well. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Picton

Picton is a relaxing, picturesque, and scenic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Picton travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Both Picton and Koh Lanta have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Koh Lanta is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Picton is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and small town charm. Picton is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is known for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. Koh Lanta is popular for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Picton is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Picton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lanta or Picton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Picton both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Lanta. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Picton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Koh Lanta is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Koh Lanta. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Picton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Picton is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Picton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is very popular for the beach. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Koh Lanta offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Hiking?

Both Koh Lanta and Picton are destinations which offer very good hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lanta. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Many visitors go to Picton for the hiking trails. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Picton is a town with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Picton offers some nice shopping areas. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lanta as well. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Picton are very good to visit with kids.

Koh Lanta is a very kid-friendly island. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Picton. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is very popular for couples. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Koh Lanta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Picton is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Picton is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Picton is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Picton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Picton a more walkable city?

Picton is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Picton is a very walkable town. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lanta Worth Visiting? and Is Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Lanta or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Lanta than Picton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Picton than Koh Lanta 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 Picton.

One day in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Lanta. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Picton. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Picton has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the picturesque destination of Picton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lanta. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Picton. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Lanta or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Lanta. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Picton is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Lanta Expensive? and Is Picton Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Picton?

Koh Lanta has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Picton, 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 Koh Lanta or Picton?

Picton has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Lanta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Picton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Picton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lanta in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Picton averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Picton. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Picton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Koh Lanta is generally much warmer than Pictonin April. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in October than Pictonin April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Picton in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Picton. In January, Koh Lanta usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton and Koh Lanta during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lanta in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Picton averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in April than Pictonin October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Typical Weather for Picton and Koh Lanta