A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cairns vs. Koh Phi Phi for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi? 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.

Cairns

Cairns is a adventure-filled, tropical, and idyllic city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cairns and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cairns. Although Cairns and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Cairns has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cairns is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Koh Phi Phi is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Cairns is popular for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also home to the Great Barrier Reef. Koh Phi Phi is popular for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises.

How is Cairns different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Cairns is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Cairns specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cairns is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cairns has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Cairns is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

Koh Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Cairns is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Phi Phi is a great choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cairns. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's first-rate scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Cairns and Koh Phi Phi.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cairns a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi is not to be missed. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cairns and Koh Phi Phi are first-rate choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cairns. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

With world-famous beaches, Koh Phi Phi is a very popular vacation destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Cairns is renowned for hiking. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Cairns specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Is the Shopping Better in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Cairns is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Cairns is well-known for its shopping. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Cairns is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cairns is a very family-friendly destination. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for couples. Also, Cairns is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Couples visit Cairns frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns and Koh Phi Phi are both first-rate destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Cairns, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Koh Phi Phi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cairns and Koh Phi Phi.

Cairns has some public transit options. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Phi Phi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Cairns or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Koh Phi Phi is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable island. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Cairns Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Cairns?

How long in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cairns and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cairns than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Cairns, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Koh Phi Phi 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 Cairns.

One day in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventure-filled city of Cairns. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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 Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Cairns. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koh Phi Phi 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 Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled city of Cairns. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Cairns. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dramatic destination of Koh Phi Phi. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Cairns and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Cairns or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cairns and Koh Phi Phi. The summer months attract visitors to Cairns because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Cairns is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phiin July. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cairns gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cairns usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phiin July. Cairns gets 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, November to March is the rainy season in Cairns.

Should I visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cairns as well as Koh Phi Phi. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cairns this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Cairns is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cairns averages around 27°C (80°F) in April, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Cairns receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cairns usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phiin October. Cairns gets 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to October in Cairns is the dry season. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Cairns is cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cairns in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F)in January.

In July, Cairns usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phiin January. Cairns gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March.

Should I visit Cairns or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Cairns during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cairns in the spring for the beaches. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In October, Cairns is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phiin April. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cairns usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phiin April. Cairns gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. April to October is the dry season in Cairns. November to March is the rainy season in Cairns. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Cairns