A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Krabi vs. Rockhampton for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Krabi or Rockhampton?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Krabi and Rockhampton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Krabi

Krabi is a vibrant, colorful, and stunning town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a cultural, natural, and rural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Krabi and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rockhampton than Krabi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rockhampton is better known for its food, beaches, and hiking, while Krabi is more popular for its resorts and shopping. Rockhampton is more touristy than Krabi and is known for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. Also, Rockhampton is famous for the Rockhampton Heritage Village. Krabi is well known for its easy access to inland adventures and nearby island hopping as well as its lively night market.

How is Krabi different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rockhampton and Krabi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Krabi or Rockhampton.

Many visitors head to Krabi specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. In the area you'll find mountain top temples such as Wat Tham Suea and natural spots such as Khao Khanap Nam Cave. In town there's the stunning Wat Kaew Korawaram temple as well.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rockhampton can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


Is the Food Better in Krabi or Rockhampton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rockhampton. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Krabi. It's not particularly known for its culinary scene, but Krabi Town does have great street food and a lively night market. For some of the best restaurants, head to Chao Fah Road.

Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Krabi
Rockhampton

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Krabi and Rockhampton.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Krabi. There's a decent live music scene, but in general the town is quiet at night. There's also a good night market.

Rockhampton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Resorts?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Krabi is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Krabi as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's no real beach in town, so the better resorts are found at nearby beach towns.

Rockhampton is not a resort destination.


Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for its beaches. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for the beache.

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

You can check out the beach in Krabi. The town itself has no beach, so you'll need to take a day trip to nearby Railay Beach or Ao Nang.

Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Krabi is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Krabi. The town's night market is fun to explore. There's also the popular Krabi Town Walking Street (where you'll find the night market) as well as some larger stores and small malls near town.

Rockhampton is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.


Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Krabi
Rockhampton

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Krabi or Rockhampton.

Krabi is a very family-friendly destination. The town makes a great base for island hopping and exploring the province of Krabi. Nearby you'll find Krabi Fun Park, which includes a ropes course. There are also caves nearby to explore and plenty of stunning natural beauty.

Rockhampton is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Both Krabi and Rockhampton are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Krabi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's easy access to many beautiful areas with caves, viewpoints, and beaches. Krabi Walking Street also has great restaurants and a lively night market.

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 Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Krabi and Rockhampton are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Krabi is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a more local vibe, as many backpackers head on to Ao Nang or Railay Beach. You'll find affordable accommodation here though, as well as easy access to some great excursions.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rockhampton. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.


Is Krabi or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Krabi 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.

Krabi is not popular with students.

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

Krabi
Rockhampton

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Krabi and Rockhampton.

Public transit is mostly limited in Krabi. There's no real public transit so you'll need to get around by rental car, motorbike, or songthaew truck (pickup trucks with seats in back).

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

Is Krabi or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Krabi
Rockhampton

Krabi and Rockhampton are notable when it comes to walkability.

Krabi is somewhat walkable. There's a walking street and a few parts of town that are relatively walkable.

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Krabi Worth Visiting? and Is Rockhampton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Krabi?

How long in Krabi or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Krabi 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 Krabi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rockhampton.

Families should spend more time in Rockhampton than Krabi. 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 Krabi. 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 Krabi 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.


  • How many days in Krabi or Rockhampton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Krabi 2-3 
    Rockhampton 2-4

One day in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Krabi. 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.

In Rockhampton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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.

A weekend in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the local destination of Krabi. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rockhampton. 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.

Five days in Krabi or Rockhampton?

The local town of Krabi offers shopping and museums. 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.

Rockhampton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rockhampton. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Krabi or Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Krabi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Rockhampton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton or Krabi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Krabi is $55, while the average daily cost in Rockhampton is $170. 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 Krabi and Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Krabi $36
    Rockhampton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Krabi $72
    Rockhampton $202
Compare Hotels in Krabi and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Krabi or Rockhampton? 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 Krabi


Hotels in Rockhampton


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: Krabi Hotel Prices and Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Krabi $3.80
    Rockhampton $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Krabi

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Krabi are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $8.18
  • Short Tuk-Tuk Ride
    $2.73
  • 2 Bottles of Gasoline
    $2.18
  • Longboat Taxi from Town
    $5.46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Krabi

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

  • Van Phuket Airport Transfer to Patong Beach Area (SHA Plus): $37
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT Transfer to PHUKET TOWN (SHA Plus): $39
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to TRI TRANG BEACH: $33
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to SURIN BEACH: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to ROYAL YACHT HAVEN: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to ROYAL PHUKET MARINA: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to RAWAI BEACH: $41
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to PHUKET TOWN: $30
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to NAIYANG BEACH: $26
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to NAIHARN BEACH: $39
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to LAYAN BEACH: $23
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to KURABURI: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Krabi or Rockhampton?

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton and Krabi 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
    Krabi $13
    Rockhampton $49
Typical Food Prices in Krabi

For Krabi, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.82
  • Drinks on the Beach
    $6.55
  • Sit Down Dinner (for Two)
    $17
  • Nice Dinner (for Two)
    $30
  • Mango Shake
    $1.36
  • Pad Thai
    $2.73
  • Fruit from the Market
    $1.64
  • Pancakes
    $2.73
  • Coffee & Cake
    $2.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Krabi

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

  • Traditional Thai Cooking Class with Smart Cook: $36
  • Snorkeling and Sunset Dinner Trip From Krabi: $37
  • 7 Islands Sunset Tour with BBQ Dinner and Snorkeling: $37
  • 7 Islands Sunset Tour with BBQ Dinner & Plankton: $37
  • Evening Thai Cooking Class at Ya's Cookery: $39
  • 4 Islands Sunset Longtail Boat Tour with BBQ Dinner: $41
  • Seven Islands Snorkel Cruise with Dinner: $41
  • Authentic Thai cooking class with market tour: $41
  • Krabi Thai Cooking Class: $42
  • Krabi 4 Islands Sunset Premium Service Trip by Speedboat + BBQ Dinner: $42
  • Thai Charm Cooking School Krabi: $44
  • Cooking Class at Thai Charm Cooking School with Meal: $45

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Krabi $10
    Rockhampton $40
Typical Entertainment Prices in Krabi

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Krabi's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thai-English Book
    $9.00
  • Thai Massages (for Two)
    $22
  • Bikini & Sarong
    $16
  • Yoga Class (1 Hour)
    $12
  • Backgammon Set (travel size)
    $6.82
  • Kayak Trip (for Two)
    $52

Tours and Activities in Krabi

For Krabi, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Full Day Guided Tour in Bor Thor Caves and Mangroves : $145
  • Phi Phi Islands Tour with Bioluminescent Planktons from krabi: $77
  • 2-Hour Clear Kayak Illuminated Night Tour in Krabi: $60
  • 4 Island Sunset Snorkeling Cruise + bioluminescent Night Snorkel: $102
  • 4 Islands & Sunset Tour by Long Tail Boat with Plankton : $71
  • 4 Islands Full-day Tour from Krabi with Tub, Chicken, Poda Island & Phra Nang: $54
  • 4 Islands One Day Tour From Krabi: $28
  • 4 Islands Snorkeling Tour by Longtail Boat from Krabi with Walk on Tombolo: $28
  • 4 Islands Tour Long Tail Boat (UPDATED JULY 2020 for New Normal): $33
  • 5 km Rafting, ATV & Zipline Tour From Krabi: $53
  • 7km White Water Rafting Adventure Tour From Krabi: $50
  • ATV Adventure Krabi: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Krabi $4.34
    Rockhampton $13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Krabi

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Krabi are as follows:


  • Beer
    $2.45
  • Cocktails (for Two)
    $8.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Krabi

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Krabi:

  • Railay Pub Crawl: $14


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Krabi Expensive? and Is Rockhampton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Krabi or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Krabi. When comparing the sizes of Krabi and Rockhampton, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Krabi or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Krabi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Krabi or Rockhampton in the Summer?

Both Rockhampton and Krabi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Krabi throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Krabi is generally around the same temperature as Rockhamptonin January. Daily temperatures in Krabi average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rockhampton. It's quite rainy in Krabi. In July, Krabi usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin January. Krabi gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Krabi is August to October.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Krabi 28°C (82°F) 
    Rockhampton 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Krabi or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

Both Rockhampton and Krabi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Krabi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year.

Krabi is a little warmer than Rockhampton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Krabi averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Krabi gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Krabi. August to October is the rainy season in Krabi.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Krabi 27°C (81°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Krabi or Rockhampton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Krabi and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Krabi year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Krabi is much warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Krabi in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 16°C (61°F)in July.

In January, Krabi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rockhamptonin July. Krabi gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Krabi is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Krabi 28°C (82°F) 
    Rockhampton 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Krabi or Rockhampton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Krabi as well as Rockhampton. Krabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Krabi is generally a little warmer than Rockhamptonin October. Daily temperatures in Krabi average around 29°C (84°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Krabi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Krabi usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Krabi gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Krabi 29°C (84°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Krabi

Krabi Rockhampton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°C (82°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 28°C (83°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 27°C (80°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 52 mm (2 in) 26°C (78°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 28°C (83°F) 318 mm (12.5 in) 20°C (69°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 279 mm (11 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 287 mm (11.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 262 mm (10.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 399 mm (15.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 304 mm (12 in) 23°C (74°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 27°C (80°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)