A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Koh Tao for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lombok or Koh Tao?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Koh Tao. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Lombok travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Lombok and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Koh Tao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is better known for its museums and attractions and shopping, while Koh Tao is more popular for its nightlife. Lombok is well known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Lombok different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Koh Tao?

Lombok is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Foodies will find both Lombok and Koh Tao both to be great destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. 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 Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

There are great resorts to choose from in both Lombok and Koh Tao.

There are plenty of resorts in Lombok to choose from. 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.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find world-class places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Lombok and Koh Tao.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok. 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.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Lombok and Koh Tao both offer world-class beaches.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Koh Tao, and they are great.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. 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.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Koh Tao?

Lombok is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Lombok and Koh Tao are somewhat similar when it comes to the world-class scenery.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Lombok is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

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

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Lombok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Lombok and Koh Tao are world-class places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lombok is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Lombok and Koh Tao both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Lombok or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

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

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Koh Tao?

Both Lombok and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Koh Tao. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

One day in Lombok or Koh Tao?

In Lombok, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. 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.

A weekend in Lombok or Koh Tao?

In Lombok, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koh Tao 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.

Five days in Lombok or Koh Tao?

Lombok is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. 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.

A week in Lombok or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. In Lombok, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Koh Tao?

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 Lombok or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

The dry season in Lombok is May to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

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

November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao. Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lombok. Lombok usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Lombok is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Koh Tao in the Winter?

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

February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. In January, Lombok usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Tao. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Lombok usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Koh Tao in the Spring?

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

Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. Lombok usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Lombok is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Lombok