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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

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 Hoi An. 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. Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a beautiful, traditional, and quaint town. With stunning beauty, Hoi An attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Hoi An travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Hoi An: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hoi An than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hoi An is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking. Hoi An is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Also, Hoi An is famous for the Fukian Assembly Hall. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Hoi An?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hoi An 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 Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An 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 Hoi An? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Hoi An, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

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 Hoi An Better for Nightlife?

Hoi An is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hoi An. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

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 Hoi An Better for Resorts?

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

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. 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.

Hoi An is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hoi An Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is terrific for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hoi An Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hoi An offers plenty to see. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hoi An Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

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.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Hoi An specifically to go shopping. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

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 Hoi An More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Koh Tarutao and Hoi An.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hoi An Better for Families?

Hoi An 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 Hoi An. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

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 Hoi An Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Hoi An both excellent 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 Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hoi An Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hoi An, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

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 Hoi An Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hoi An 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.

Hoi An has some public transit options. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

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 Hoi An a more walkable city?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hoi An. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hoi An or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful town of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Hoi An?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional destination of Hoi An. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Hoi An?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The quaint town of Hoi An offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Hoi An?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the remote destination of Koh Tarutao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Hoi An. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Vietnam, and The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam.

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

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 Hoi An Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An in the Summer?

Both Hoi An 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. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Hoi An. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Hoi An. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Hoi An averages at about 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An in the Autumn?

Both Hoi An 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in October than Hoi An. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Hoi An. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Hoi An fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Hoi An. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An. Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Hoi An. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Hoi An in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Hoi An fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hoi An in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Hoi An. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Hoi An. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Hoi An. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Hoi An averages at about 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Hoi An and Koh Tarutao