A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Lombok for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Phuket or Lombok?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Lombok, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. Phuket is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Phuket travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a laid back, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Phuket and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Lombok?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Phuket, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Phuket is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Phuket is more touristy than Lombok and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Lombok is well known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani.

How is Phuket different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lombok is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Lombok can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Lombok has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

People head to Phuket just to party. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

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 Phuket or Lombok Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Phuket for its luxury resorts. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Lombok is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel to Lombok specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Lombok have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in the world. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Lombok?

Lombok is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Lombok More Beautiful?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Families?

Lombok is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Couples?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Is Phuket or Lombok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Phuket is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

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

Phuket is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

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 Phuket or Lombok a more walkable city?

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

Phuket is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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 Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Lombok Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Lombok?

Phuket and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Phuket because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Phuket. 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 Phuket. 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 Phuket 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 Phuket or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Lombok. 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 Phuket or Lombok?

Phuket is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lombok is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Lombok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the energetic destination of Phuket. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Lombok. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One week is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week 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 Phuket and Lombok, we can see that Phuket 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Lombok Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Phuket or Lombok?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Phuket or Lombok in the Summer?

Both Lombok and Phuket during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Lombok. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Lombok in the summer. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Lombok fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Lombok in the Autumn?

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

December to March in Phuket is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Lombok. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Phuket is around the same temperature as Lombok. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phuket in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Lombok in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Lombok. Phuket 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 Phuket is the dry season. Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Lombok. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the winter, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Lombok. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Phuket or Lombok in the Spring?

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

The rainy season in Phuket is June to October. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Lombok. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Lombok in the spring. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Lombok and Phuket