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

Should you visit Da Nang or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Tao? 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.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Da Nang travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Da Nang and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Da Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is more popular for its museums and attractions. Koh Tao is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Da Nang is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Da Nang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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 Da Nang or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Koh Tao.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Koh Tao has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Both Da Nang and Koh Tao are very good when it comes to partying.

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Da Nang and Koh Tao offer a relatively similar set of very good luxury resort options.

Da Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

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.

Is Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is terrific for the beach. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. 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.

Many people head to Da Nang to enjoy the beach. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Is Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. 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.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Da Nang 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, Da Nang is very family-friendly. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

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 Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Da Nang and Koh Tao make for a very good place to visit.

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Da Nang or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

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

Da Nang 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 Da Nang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

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 Da Nang or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city 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.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Both Da Nang 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 Da Nang. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Da Nang. 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 Da 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

In Da Nang, you'll find museums and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A weekend in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

In Da Nang, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Da Nang has to offer.

In Koh Tao, 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. 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 Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Da 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.

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Da 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 Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Da Nang and Koh Tao, we can see that Da Nang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 540 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Koh Tao?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Koh Tao. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. August to December in Da Nang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Da Nang usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Da Nang this time of the year. In the summer, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Da Nang is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Da Nang. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Da Nang is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Da Nang in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Da Nang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually gets more rain in January than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

In January, Da Nang is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Koh Tao. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. In April, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. In Da Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

Da Nang is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Da Nang