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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Wellington? 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Wellington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Wellington are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wellington is known for its museums and shopping. Koh Samui is more touristy than Wellington and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Wellington is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches.

How is Koh Samui different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wellington 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 Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Wellington can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Wellington makes for a great culinary experience. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. 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.

Wellington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Wellington 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.

Wellington is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wellington 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.

Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Wellington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Samui. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Wellington?

Wellington is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Wellington.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. 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.

Wellington is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Samui makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Wellington is a good resort island for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Wellington are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington Better for Students?

Wellington is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Wellington is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its public transit.

The public transit in Wellington can get you to most places easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Wellington a more walkable city?

Wellington is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Wellington?

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

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Wellington. 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 Wellington. 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 Wellington 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 Wellington.

One day in Koh Samui or Wellington?

With shopping and nightlife around the beautiful resort island of Koh Samui, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Samui, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the funky destination of Wellington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Wellington?

Koh Samui, a popular resort island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this resort island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact city of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this resort island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wellington 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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Wellington?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Wellington, 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 Wellington?

Wellington 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 Wellington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Wellington. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In July, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Wellingtonin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin January. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Wellington. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Wellington in the Winter?

Both Wellington and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Wellington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Koh Samui during the spring 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 Wellington for the beaches during these months.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Wellingtonin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Koh Samui