A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Coffs Harbour for Beaches, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour? 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.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a popular, beachfront, and lively town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a nature-filled, lively, and relaxing vacation town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Coffs Harbour than Ao Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ao Nang is well known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Coffs Harbour is well known for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". Also, Coffs Harbour is famous for the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

How is Ao Nang different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Coffs Harbour. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Coffs Harbour has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour.

Ao Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Coffs Harbour is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour offer a relatively similar set of excellent luxury resort options.

Ao Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Coffs Harbour. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's excellent scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Coffs Harbour. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Coffs Harbour. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Many people head to Ao Nang to enjoy the beach. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Coffs Harbour. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Coffs Harbour. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Coffs Harbour is a very family-friendly destination. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Coffs Harbour makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Coffs Harbour. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ao Nang is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Ao Nang has some public transit options. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Ao Nang is very walkable. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable town. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Both Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than in Ao Nang. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Coffs Harbour.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Ao Nang 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the accessible destination of Ao Nang. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This vacation town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Coffs Harbour, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the popular destination of Ao Nang. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Coffs Harbour has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the town of Ao Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. In Coffs Harbour, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour, 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 Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

Both Coffs Harbour and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ao Nang is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ao Nang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during summer. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In July, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Coffs Harbourin January. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

Both Coffs Harbour and Ao Nang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ao Nang is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin April. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 27°C (81°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Ao Nang often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin April. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in October than Coffs Harbourin April. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang. August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Coffs Harbour. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Coffs Harbour in the winter. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Coffs Harbour during winter. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ao Nang usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin July. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Coffs Harbour. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ao Nang is much warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ao Nang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the spring, Ao Nang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbourin October. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in April than Coffs Harbourin October. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Ao Nang