A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Ao Nang or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Rotorua? 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a cultural, natural, and world-renowned town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ao Nang and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ao Nang. Although Ao Nang and Rotorua are popular destinations, Ao Nang has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ao Nang is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Rotorua attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is famous for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. It is also well known for the Island Boat Tours. Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Ao Nang different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rotorua 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 Rotorua?

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

Rotorua offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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 Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Rotorua has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

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 Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Ao Nang has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rotorua is not a resort destination.

In Ao Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Rotorua is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ao Nang is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a town with good options for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Ao Nang. 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.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Ao Nang and Rotorua.

Ao Nang has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua is a very family-friendly destination. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Rotorua makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rotorua, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Ao Nang and Rotorua.

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

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Ao Nang or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ao Nang and Rotorua. In our opinion, Rotorua has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rotorua than Ao Nang. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotorua 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 Rotorua.

One day in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

In Ao Nang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Rotorua, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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 Rotorua?

In Ao Nang, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ao Nang has to offer.

In Rotorua, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotorua has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

Ao Nang is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Ao Nang. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotorua. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

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 Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Rotorua?

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

Rotorua 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 Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua 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 Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Rotorua in the summer. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In July, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua 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 Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ao Nang is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ao Nang in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Rotorua averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 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 Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Rotorua. 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 Rotorua this time of year.

In January, Ao Nang is generally around the same temperature as Rotoruain July. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In January, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Rotorua in the Spring?

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

Ao Nang is much warmer than Rotorua in the spring. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Ao Nang