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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Torquay?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Torquay? 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 lush, laid back, and beautiful resort island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Torquay

Torquay is a laid back, hip, and thriving surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Torquay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Torquay are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Torquay is known for its museums and small town charm. Koh Samui is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Koh Samui different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Torquay 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 Torquay?

Torquay 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 Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Samui has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Torquay is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Torquay is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Torquay are fantastic choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Torquay is a very popular vacation destination. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Torquay both have very good 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.

Torquay is a popular spot for hiking. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Torquay?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Torquay both offer plenty of good 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.

Torquay is a great destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Families?

Koh Samui is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Samui is very family-friendly. 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.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Torquay make for a very good 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.

Torquay is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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

Koh Samui is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Torquay is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

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

Koh Samui and Torquay both offer good 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.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Koh Samui or Torquay a more walkable city?

Torquay is a great surf town for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable destination. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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 Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Torquay?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Samui than Torquay. 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 Koh Samui than Torquay 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Torquay?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the surf town of Torquay. 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 Torquay?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the casual destination of Torquay. 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 surf town has to offer. This surf town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Torquay?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thriving surf town of Torquay. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Torquay?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. In Koh Samui, 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.

Torquay 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Torquay, we can see that Torquay 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 Torquay 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 Torquay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Torquay 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 Torquay Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Torquay?

Torquay has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Torquay, 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 Koh Samui or Torquay?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Torquay in the Summer?

Both Torquay and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Torquay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Samui is generally around the same temperature as Torquayin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Torquayin January. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Torquay in the Autumn?

Both Torquay and Koh Samui during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Torquay in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Torquay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Torquay. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Torquay because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Torquay. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Torquay averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Torquayin July. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Torquay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Torquay. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

In April, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Torquayin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Torquayin October. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Torquay and Koh Samui