A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Katoomba for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

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 Katoomba. 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.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a breathtaking , stunning, and peaceful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Katoomba is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Katoomba travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Katoomba than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Katoomba is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Katoomba is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains. Also, Katoomba is famous for Scenic World. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Katoomba is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Katoomba. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

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 Katoomba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Katoomba is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Katoomba is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

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 Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Katoomba is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

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 Katoomba Better for Resorts?

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

Katoomba is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Katoomba Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Katoomba is not a beach destination.

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.

Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Katoomba is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

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

Katoomba has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

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 Katoomba More Beautiful?

Katoomba is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Katoomba is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba 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, Katoomba is very family-friendly. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

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 Katoomba Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Katoomba 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 Katoomba frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

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

Katoomba 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 Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural 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 Katoomba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Katoomba 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.

Katoomba has some public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

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 Katoomba a more walkable city?

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

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable town. The town itself is relatively walkable.

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 Katoomba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Katoomba due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

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

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

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

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.

Katoomba is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Katoomba?

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.

Katoomba might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Katoomba?

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.

Because Katoomba is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Katoomba?

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.

Since Katoomba is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Katoomba, we can see that Katoomba 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. Even though Koh Tarutao is in Asia and Katoomba is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Katoomba Expensive?.

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

Katoomba 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 Katoomba in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Katoomba. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Katoomba averages at about 24°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Katoomba. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Katoombain January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Katoomba in the Autumn?

Both Katoomba 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 travelers come to Katoomba for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Katoombain April. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Katoombain April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 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 Katoomba in the Winter?

Both Katoomba 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, many visitors come to Katoomba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Katoomba in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Katoomba fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in July.

Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in January than Katoombain July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Katoomba in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Katoomba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, most visitors come to Katoomba for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Katoomba averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Katoombain October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 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 Katoomba and Koh Tarutao