A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Auckland for Beaches, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Auckland. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tarutao and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland. Although Koh Tarutao and Auckland are both popular with visitors, Auckland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Auckland is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower. Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Auckland is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Auckland has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Auckland has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Koh Tarutao, but you'll find a few options to choose from. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tarutao is a very popular vacation destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Auckland is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Families?

Auckland is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Auckland. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Auckland both high quality destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Auckland is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Auckland a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Auckland are decent when it comes to walkability.

Koh Tarutao is generally not a very walkable island. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Auckland. In our opinion, Auckland has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Auckland than Koh Tarutao. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Koh Tarutao 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 Auckland.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

The beautiful island of Koh Tarutao offers . 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.

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Koh Tarutao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tarutao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Auckland is a thrill-seeking big city where you can fill many days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Koh Tarutao is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

The adventurous city of Auckland offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 island offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland in the Summer?

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

In July, Koh Tarutao is generally a little warmer than Aucklandin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Aucklandin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Koh Tarutao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Aucklandin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Tarutao in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Auckland. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

In April, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Aucklandin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 29°C (85°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Aucklandin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Koh Tarutao