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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

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 Kamakura. 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 secluded, remote, and beautiful island. Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a quaint, charming, and laid back coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kamakura travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kamakura than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kamakura is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Kamakura is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches. Also, Kamakura is famous for the Great Buddha. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kamakura 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 Kamakura. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

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 Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Kamakura has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

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 Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

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

Kamakura has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

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 Kamakura Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Kamakura 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.

Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tarutao. 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.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Kamakura has an old town worth visiting. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its hiking trails.

Koh Tarutao is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

Kamakura is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Kamakura has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

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 Kamakura More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kamakura Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Kamakura are notable family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kamakura. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Kamakura both superb 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 Kamakura frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

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

Koh Tarutao and Kamakura are both notable 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 Kamakura. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

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

Kamakura 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.

Kamakura has some public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

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 Kamakura a more walkable city?

Kamakura is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable coastal city. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached 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 Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Tarutao than Kamakura because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamakura.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kamakura 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 Kamakura.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ancient coastal city of Kamakura. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Kamakura?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the ancient destination of Kamakura. This coastal 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 Kamakura?

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 ancient coastal city of Kamakura offers shopping and museums. 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 Kamakura?

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 Kamakura. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Kamakura, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Kamakura Expensive?.

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

Kamakura 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 Kamakura in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Kamakura. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Kamakura. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kamakura averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Kamakura. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kamakura in the Autumn?

Both Kamakura and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Kamakura in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Kamakura. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kamakura in the Winter?

Both Kamakura and Koh Tarutao during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Kamakura in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Kamakura fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Koh Tarutao usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kamakura. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kamakura in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Kamakura. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Kamakura. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Kamakura averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Koh Tarutao