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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton?

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 Rockhampton. 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. With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a traditional, charming, and cultural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rockhampton travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rockhampton. Although Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton are popular destinations, Rockhampton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rockhampton is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Rockhampton is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. It is also well known for the Rockhampton Heritage Village. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway 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 Rockhampton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Rockhampton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

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 Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

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 Rockhampton Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. 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.

Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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 Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Is Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton, and they are superb.

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 Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton?

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

Rockhampton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

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 Rockhampton More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

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 Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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

Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton are both nice 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 Rockhampton. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

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

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct 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 Rockhampton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Koh Tarutao. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming town of Rockhampton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the remote destination of Koh Tarutao. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the rural destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

The secluded island of Koh Tarutao offers . 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.

The rural town of Rockhampton offers shopping and museums. 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 Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Koh Tarutao. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rockhampton. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tarutao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koh Tarutao is in Asia and Rockhampton is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Rockhampton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton Expensive?.

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

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton in the Summer?

Both Rockhampton 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. Also, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Rockhampton in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rockhampton. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

Both Rockhampton 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 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.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Rockhamptonin July. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Rockhampton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Rockhampton. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Rockhampton in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in October.

Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 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.

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Koh Tarutao