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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Sydney?

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 Sydney. 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 beautiful, undiscovered, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Sydney

Sydney is a energetic, outdoorsy, and adventurous city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Tarutao and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Sydney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney. Although Koh Tarutao and Sydney are popular destinations, Sydney has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sydney is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts. Sydney is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also well known for the Sydney Opera House. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Sydney has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

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 Sydney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Sydney has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

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 Sydney Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

The nightlife in Sydney is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

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 Sydney Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not so good for its resorts. However, Sydney 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.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

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

Sydney is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Sydney. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao and Sydney 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 Sydney. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Sydney, and they are great.

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 Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Sydney?

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Sydney specifically to go shopping. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

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 Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney 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, Sydney is very family-friendly. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

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 Sydney Better for Couples?

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

Sydney is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Sydney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sydney, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Sydney is a very popular place to visit for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Sydney can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

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 Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Sydney is a very walkable destination. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less 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 Sydney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Sydney?

Both Koh Tarutao and Sydney have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sydney than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sydney.

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

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

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sydney is a outdoorsy city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Sydney?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sydney is a adventurous big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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 Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sydney is a outdoorsy city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Sydney?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Sydney is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Sydney, we can see that Sydney 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 Sydney 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 Sydney would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sydney 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 Sydney Expensive?.

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

Sydney 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 Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney and Koh Tarutao during the summer 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 Sydney for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Sydney in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Sydney fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in January.

Sydney 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 more rain in July than Sydneyin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sydney in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Sydney. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sydney because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Sydney averages at about 19°C (65°F)in April.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Sydneyin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sydney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Sydney. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Sydneyin July. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in January than Sydneyin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sydney in the Spring?

Both Sydney and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Sydney in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Sydney fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Sydneyin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Koh Tarutao