A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Phi Phi vs. Gili Trawangan for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

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

Should I visit Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning, beautiful, and rustic island. Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a idyllic, laidback, and tropical island. The beauty of Gili Trawangan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi than Gili Trawangan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Phi Phi is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Gili Trawangan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Koh Phi Phi is well known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Also, Koh Phi Phi is famous for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Gili Trawangan is well known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving.

How is Koh Phi Phi different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Gili Trawangan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gili Trawangan is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Gili Trawangan has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Gili Trawangan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Koh Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Phi Phi is a perfect choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Gili Trawangan has a few great resort options. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's world-class scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Koh Phi Phi and Gili Trawangan.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Phi Phi and Gili Trawangan are world-class choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Phi Phi. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

With world-famous beaches, Gili Trawangan is a very popular vacation destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is adequate for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

If you're looking to go shopping, Gili Trawangan has some nice offerings. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

With stunning beauty, Gili Trawangan attracts visitors from all around. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Gili Trawangan is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Gili Trawangan is very family-friendly. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Phi Phi has plenty to offer. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Couples visit Gili Trawangan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Koh Phi Phi and Gili Trawangan are world-class places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Phi Phi is extremely popular for backpackers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Gili Trawangan is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Phi Phi and Gili Trawangan both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Koh Phi Phi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Gili Trawangan has a few public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Is Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Gili Trawangan is a very walkable island. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable island. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Koh Phi Phi?

How long in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gili Trawangan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Phi Phi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Koh Phi Phi 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 Gili Trawangan.

One day in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

In Koh Phi Phi, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical island of Gili Trawangan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

Koh Phi Phi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Gili Trawangan. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The laidback island of Gili Trawangan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Phi Phi or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the island of Koh Phi Phi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Gili Trawangan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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