A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

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 Koh Lipe and Rotorua can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a local, tranquil, and idyllic 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.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a natural, world-renowned, and diverse town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Lipe than Rotorua, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Lipe is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Rotorua is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Rotorua is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Koh Lipe is well known for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. Also, Koh Lipe is famous for Sunrise Beach.

How is Koh Lipe different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

Rotorua is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Rotorua specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rotorua is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Rotorua is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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".

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Resorts?

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

In Koh Lipe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Rotorua is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Lipe is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Koh Lipe is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Koh Lipe and Rotorua.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lipe. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

Rotorua is very good for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Lipe is very family-friendly. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lipe and Rotorua are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Rotorua has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rotorua is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

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

Rotorua is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe 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.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable destination. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

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 Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Lipe and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe than in Rotorua. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

Families should spend more time in Rotorua than Koh Lipe. 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 Koh Lipe. 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 Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

In Koh Lipe, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

The beautiful town of Rotorua offers food and shopping. 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 Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

In Koh Lipe, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Rotorua is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotorua, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

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

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. In Koh Lipe, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Rotorua, we can see that Rotorua 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. Even though Koh Lipe is in Asia and Rotorua is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Rotorua. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Rotorua in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (81°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Koh Lipe is much warmer than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In October, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Koh Lipe during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lipe because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lipe in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lipe and Rotorua. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lipe year-round. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In April, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 29°C (85°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Rotoruain October. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Koh Lipe