A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Tauranga for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Samui or Tauranga?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Tauranga? 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.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a tropical, rainforest-covered, and lush resort island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Samui as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a coastal, laid back, and relaxing town. With stunning beauty, Tauranga attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Tauranga travel costs.

Koh Samui and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Tauranga are popular destinations, Koh Samui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Samui is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tauranga attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Koh Samui is more touristy than Tauranga and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also well known for The Big Buddha Temple. Tauranga is famous for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Koh Samui different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

Tauranga is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Tauranga. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Tauranga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Koh Samui is an experience not to be missed. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

People head to Koh Samui just to party. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Tauranga is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Tauranga is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Samui. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Tauranga both have high quality trails.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Tauranga is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Tauranga both offer plenty of nice spots.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Tauranga is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Samui as well. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Families?

Tauranga is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tauranga is a very family-friendly destination. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Tauranga make for a high quality place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tauranga is an amazing town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Tauranga, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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

Koh Samui and Tauranga both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Tauranga has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Koh Samui or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Tauranga is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Tauranga is a somewhat walkable town. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Tauranga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tauranga than Koh Samui 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 Tauranga.

One day in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Tauranga. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Tauranga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal town of Tauranga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Tauranga?

Koh Samui 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 Samui has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Tauranga is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Tauranga?

Tauranga has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Tauranga, 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.