A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Koh Tao for Beaches, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Auckland or Koh Tao?

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 Auckland and Koh Tao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Auckland travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Auckland and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Auckland than Koh Tao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Auckland is better known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Auckland is well known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Auckland different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Auckland is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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 Auckland or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Auckland and Koh Tao offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Auckland has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

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 Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Koh Tao have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The people in Koh Tao know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. 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.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao is not to be missed. 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.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tao is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tao. 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.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Koh Tao?

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

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

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 Auckland or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Auckland 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, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

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 Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Both Auckland and Koh Tao are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit Koh Tao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Tao is extremely popular 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.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Auckland or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Auckland is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Auckland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Auckland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

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 Auckland or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options 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.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Koh Tao?

Both Auckland 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 Koh Tao than in Auckland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Auckland 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Auckland or Koh Tao?

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Koh Tao?

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auckland has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Koh Tao?

Auckland is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Koh Tao, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Auckland is in Pacific and Koh Tao is in Asia, 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 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland 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 Auckland Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Koh Tao?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Koh Tao, 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 Auckland or Koh Tao?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Koh Tao. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Auckland is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

In Auckland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Auckland usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the autumn, Auckland is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Auckland in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in October.

In the autumn, Auckland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Taoin October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Auckland usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Auckland or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Auckland is generally much colder than Koh Taoin January. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 11°C (52°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Auckland. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than Koh Taoin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Should I visit Auckland or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Auckland during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Auckland is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 14°C (58°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Koh Taoin April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Auckland