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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Perth?

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 Perth. 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 undiscovered, secluded, and remote 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.

Perth

Perth is a isolated, sunny, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Perth travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Perth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Perth?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Perth than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Perth is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Perth is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Also, Perth is famous for the Swan Bell Tower. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Perth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Perth 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 Perth. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage 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 Perth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

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

Perth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

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 Perth Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Perth 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 Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

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 Perth Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Perth 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.

Perth is not a resort destination.


Is Koh Tarutao or Perth Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao and Perth both offer first-rate 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 Perth. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Is Koh Tarutao or Perth Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Tarutao for the hiking trails. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Perth?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

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

Perth has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

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 Perth More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth 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.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Perth Better for Families?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Perth 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 Perth. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

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 Perth Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao is great for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Koh Tarutao is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.


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

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Koh Tarutao and Perth 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 Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Perth Better for Students?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Perth is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Koh Tarutao
Perth

Perth 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.

Perth has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around 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 Perth a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao
Perth

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

Perth is a somewhat walkable city. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun 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 Perth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Perth or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Perth?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Perth. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Perth 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 Perth.

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

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


  • How many days in Koh Tarutao or Perth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Tarutao 2-3 
    Perth 2-4

One day in Koh Tarutao or Perth?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this remote destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed city of Perth. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Perth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the isolated destination of Perth. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This 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 Perth?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The relaxed city of Perth offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Perth?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Perth. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Perth or Koh Tarutao?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Tarutao is $137, while the average daily cost in Perth is $158. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koh Tarutao and Perth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Tarutao $57
    Perth $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Tarutao $114
    Perth $150
Compare Hotels in Koh Tarutao and Perth

Looking for a hotel in Koh Tarutao or Perth? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koh Tarutao


Hotels in Perth


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Perth Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Tarutao $39
    Perth $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

Also for Perth, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Perth Airport(PER) to Fremantle Cruise Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $74
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $74
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $221
  • PER Airport to Perth City Centre Private Transfer: $34
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $165
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Perth Departure Transfer by Private Chauffeur: Perth City Center to Airport: $50
  • Perth Airport (PER) to Perth city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $178
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $61
  • Departure Transfer: Perth to Perth Airport PER by Business Car: $79
  • Ballooning in the Avon Valley plus Transfer from Perth, breakfast: $282

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Tarutao or Perth?

Prices for flights to both Perth and Koh Tarutao change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koh Tarutao $56
    Perth $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Perth

For Perth, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hands on Cooking Class or Cooking Workshop Experience: $69
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $99
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $101
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $122
  • Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Dinner Experience Small Group Tour: $124
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $148
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour: $167
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $176

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Tarutao $17
    Perth $14

Tours and Activities in Perth

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Perth.

  • 1 Day Margaret River Sightseeing Tour from Perth: $133
  • 2 Hour Whale-Watching Cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 2 Hours Culture and Street Art Tour in Fremantle: $43
  • 2 hour whale watching experience departing Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 6 Hours Pinnacles Express Tour : $128
  • Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise: $109
  • Bespoke Perth City and Surrounds Day Tour: $228
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $108
  • Canning River Half-Day Kayak Wildlife Tour: $52
  • City of Perth Tour: $132
  • City of Perth Tour: $134
  • Discover Perth Full Day Tour: $101

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Tarutao $8.08
    Perth $7.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $63
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Half Day Afternoon: $70
  • Swan Valley Half-Day Wine Tour - Small Group Experience: $70
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $70
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $78
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $82
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $98
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Full Day: $100
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $109
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $109
  • Swan Valley Boutique Wine Tour: $115


When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Perth, we can see that Perth 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 Perth 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 Perth Expensive?.



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

Perth 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 Perth in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Perth. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, many visitors come to Perth in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Perth. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Perth averages at about 25°C (76°F)in January.

Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Perthin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Perth receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Koh Tarutao 27°C (81°F) 
    Perth 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Perth in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Perth. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Perth for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally a little warmer than Perthin April. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Perth fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Perthin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Perth receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Koh Tarutao 27°C (81°F) 
    Perth 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Perth in the Winter?

Both Perth and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Perth because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Perth in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Perth fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Perth. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Perthin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Perth receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Koh Tarutao 27°C (80°F) 
    Perth 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Perth in the Spring?

Both Perth and Koh Tarutao during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Perth this time of year.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Perth. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Perth averages at about 17°C (62°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Perthin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Perth receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Koh Tarutao 29°C (85°F) 
    Perth 17°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Perth and Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao Perth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 50 mm (2 in) 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 29°C (85°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 244 mm (9.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 224 mm (8.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 269 mm (10.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 262 mm (10.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 355 mm (14 in) 15°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 281 mm (11.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 204 mm (8 in) 19°C (67°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)