A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Tarutao vs. Koh Chang for Beaches, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang?

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 Koh Chang. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a serene, tranquil, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tarutao and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Chang than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Chang is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its hiking. Koh Chang is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Also, Koh Chang is famous for White Sand Beach. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Neither Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Tarutao. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

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

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

Koh Chang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

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 Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

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 Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Chang to choose from. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao and Koh Chang both offer world-class beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Chang. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Is Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Koh Chang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

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 Koh Chang Better for Families?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

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 Koh Chang Better for Couples?

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

Koh Chang is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

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 Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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 Koh Chang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Chang 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.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Koh Chang are respectable 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.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang?

In either Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Chang than Koh Tarutao because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic island of Koh Chang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 Koh Chang?

You'll find around the secluded 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the idyllic destination of Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island 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 Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undiscovered 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic island of Koh Chang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Koh Chang?

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.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, and The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Koh Chang, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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 Koh Chang Expensive?.

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

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 Koh Chang in the Summer?

Both Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

Both Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang 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 around the same amount of rain in October as Koh Chang. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang in the Winter?

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

November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Koh Chang in the Spring?

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

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Koh Chang. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Koh Tarutao