A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Krabi vs. Lombok for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Krabi or Lombok?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Krabi and Lombok can help you decide which place is right for you.

Krabi

Krabi is a stunning, local, and vibrant town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Krabi travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a peaceful, laid back, and cultural island. Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Krabi and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Krabi or Lombok?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Krabi and Lombok are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Krabi attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Lombok is more touristy than Krabi and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. Krabi is famous for its easy access to inland adventures and nearby island hopping as well as its lively night market.

How is Krabi different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Krabi or Lombok?

Krabi is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Krabi. In the area you'll find mountain top temples such as Wat Tham Suea and natural spots such as Khao Khanap Nam Cave. In town there's the stunning Wat Kaew Korawaram temple as well.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Is the Food Better in Krabi or Lombok? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lombok. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Krabi. It's not particularly known for its culinary scene, but Krabi Town does have great street food and a lively night market. For some of the best restaurants, head to Chao Fah Road.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Krabi and Lombok.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Krabi. There's a decent live music scene, but in general the town is quiet at night. There's also a good night market.

Lombok has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Lombok. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Krabi offers a few options. There's no real beach in town, so the better resorts are found at nearby beach towns.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Krabi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok is not to be missed. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Krabi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Lombok is a very popular vacation destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

You can check out the beach in Krabi. The town itself has no beach, so you'll need to take a day trip to nearby Railay Beach or Ao Nang.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lombok. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Krabi or Lombok?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Krabi and Lombok.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Krabi. The town's night market is fun to explore. There's also the popular Krabi Town Walking Street (where you'll find the night market) as well as some larger stores and small malls near town.

Lombok is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Is Krabi or Lombok More Beautiful?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Krabi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Krabi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Krabi or Lombok.

Krabi is a very family-friendly destination. The town makes a great base for island hopping and exploring the province of Krabi. Nearby you'll find Krabi Fun Park, which includes a ropes course. There are also caves nearby to explore and plenty of stunning natural beauty.

Lombok is a very kid-friendly town. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Couples?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Lombok has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Couples visit Krabi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There's easy access to many beautiful areas with caves, viewpoints, and beaches. Krabi Walking Street also has great restaurants and a lively night market.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lombok. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

It's common for backpackers to visit Krabi. The town has a more local vibe, as many backpackers head on to Ao Nang or Railay Beach. You'll find affordable accommodation here though, as well as easy access to some great excursions.

Is Krabi or Lombok Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Krabi and Lombok.

Public transit is mostly limited in Krabi. There's no real public transit so you'll need to get around by rental car, motorbike, or songthaew truck (pickup trucks with seats in back).

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Krabi or Lombok a more walkable city?

Krabi is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Krabi is a somewhat walkable place. There's a walking street and a few parts of town that are relatively walkable.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Krabi Worth Visiting? and Is Lombok Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Krabi?

How long in Krabi or Lombok?

Krabi and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Krabi because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Krabi, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Krabi 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 Lombok.

One day in Krabi or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Krabi. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Lombok, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Krabi or Lombok?

Krabi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Krabi or Lombok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Krabi. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lombok is a fun place to experience. In Lombok, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A week in Krabi or Lombok?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Krabi. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Lombok, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Krabi or Lombok?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Krabi or Lombok in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Krabi and Lombok. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Krabi year-round. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, August to October is the rainy season in Krabi. May to September in Lombok is the dry season. Krabi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Krabi usually receives more rain than Lombok. Krabi gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Krabi is around the same temperature as Lombok. Typically, the summer temperatures in Krabi in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Lombok averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Lombok in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Krabi as well as Lombok. Krabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year.

Also, December to March in Krabi is the dry season. August to October in Krabi is the rainy season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Lombok. Krabi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Krabi usually gets more rain in October than Lombok. Krabi gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Krabi is generally around the same temperature as Lombok. Daily temperatures in Krabi average around 27°C (81°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Lombok in the Winter?

Both Lombok and Krabi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Krabi throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Krabi is December to March. In January, Krabi usually receives less rain than Lombok. Krabi gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually receives more sunshine than Lombok during winter. Krabi gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

Krabi is around the same temperature as Lombok in the winter. The daily temperature in Krabi averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Krabi or Lombok in the Spring?

Both Lombok and Krabi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Krabi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round.

May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. It rains a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually gets more rain in April than Lombok. Krabi gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the spring, Krabi is around the same temperature as Lombok. Typically, the spring temperatures in Krabi in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Lombok and Krabi