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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong. 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a dense, cosmopolitan, and glamorous city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hong Kong. Although Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong are both popular with visitors, Hong Kong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hong Kong is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is known for its resorts and beaches. Hong Kong is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also home to Victoria Peak. Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

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 Hong Kong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Hong Kong, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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 Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

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

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Koh Tarutao are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong, and they are great.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

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

Many people travel to Hong Kong specifically to go shopping. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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 Hong Kong Better for Families?

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hong Kong is very family-friendly. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Hong Kong is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

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

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

Both Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hong Kong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

You'll find around the island of Koh Tarutao. 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.

Hong Kong is a glamorous 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 Hong Kong?

You'll find around the undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hong Kong is a dense big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the remote island of Koh Tarutao. 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.

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Hong Kong?

Koh Tarutao 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.

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, and The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Hong Kong, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tarutao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Hong Kong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong Expensive?.