A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Coffs Harbour vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a lively, relaxing, and fun vacation town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a funky, beautiful, and backpacker-friendly party island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its nightlife and impressive beauty, while Coffs Harbour is known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Coffs Harbour and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Coffs Harbour is popular for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana".

How is Coffs Harbour different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Coffs Harbour is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Coffs Harbour is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Coffs Harbour is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Coffs Harbour makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for nightlife. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Koh Pha Ngan is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

The people in Coffs Harbour know how to have a good time. 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 Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is well known for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Both Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Both Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan are destinations which offer superb hiking.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Coffs Harbour is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Coffs Harbour is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Coffs Harbour frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town to visit for backpackers. 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 Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Koh Pha Ngan is somewhat walkable. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable vacation 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 Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Coffs Harbour?

How long in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Coffs Harbour, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Coffs Harbour that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Coffs Harbour 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Coffs Harbour, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this lively vacation town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

A weekend in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Coffs Harbour is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Coffs Harbour, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this nature-filled destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the backpacker-friendly destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Coffs Harbour is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful party island of Koh Pha Ngan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Coffs Harbour is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Coffs Harbour is in Pacific and Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Which is Bigger, Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Coffs Harbour during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

Coffs Harbour is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan in the summer. The daily temperature in Coffs Harbour averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in January than Koh Pha Nganin July. Coffs Harbour gets 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Coffs Harbour and Koh Pha Ngan. Most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Coffs Harbour is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Coffs Harbour in April average around 20°C (67°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F)in October.

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Coffs Harbour usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Nganin October. Coffs Harbour gets 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Coffs Harbour as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The winter months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In July, Coffs Harbour is generally much colder than Koh Pha Nganin January. Daily temperatures in Coffs Harbour average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Nganin January. Coffs Harbour gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Coffs Harbour are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Coffs Harbour is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Coffs Harbour averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. In October, Coffs Harbour usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Nganin April. Coffs Harbour gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Coffs Harbour