A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Coffs Harbour for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Food

Should you visit Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Coffs Harbour can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a relaxing, fun, and nature-filled vacation town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pattaya and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Coffs Harbour than Pattaya. While Pattaya is larger than Coffs Harbour, Coffs Harbour has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Coffs Harbour is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pattaya attracts visitors for its nightlife. Pattaya is more touristy than Coffs Harbour and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Coffs Harbour is famous for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also well known for the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

How is Pattaya different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Pattaya and Coffs Harbour.

Pattaya offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Coffs Harbour. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Coffs Harbour.

Pattaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Dining out in Coffs Harbour is an experience not to be missed. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is very popular for nightlife. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Pattaya is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

The people in Coffs Harbour know how to have a good time. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Pattaya and Coffs Harbour have great options.

In Pattaya, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

There are plenty of resorts in Coffs Harbour to choose from. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pattaya and Coffs Harbour both offer plenty of great spots.

Pattaya is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Coffs Harbour. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its family-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular vacation town to visit for families. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

Pattaya is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Coffs Harbour. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Pattaya has some public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Pattaya or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Pattaya is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Pattaya is generally not a very walkable resort city. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable resort city. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Pattaya 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active destination of Pattaya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This vacation town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the high energy destination of Pattaya. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Coffs Harbour has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort city of Pattaya. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. In Coffs Harbour, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pattaya and Coffs Harbour, we can see that Coffs Harbour is more expensive. And not only is Pattaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Pattaya is in Asia and Coffs Harbour 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 Pattaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pattaya 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 Coffs Harbour would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Coffs Harbour than you might in Pattaya.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Coffs Harbour, 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 Pattaya or Coffs Harbour?

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

Should I visit Pattaya or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Coffs Harbour. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

In July, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin January. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun in the summer.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin January. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Coffs Harbour. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbourin April. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Pattaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Coffs Harbourin April. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Should I visit Pattaya or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

Both Coffs Harbour and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Pattaya is much warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pattaya in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Coffs Harbour during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin July. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Pattaya during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Coffs Harbourin October. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 30°C (86°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the spring, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbourin October. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Coffs Harbourin October. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Pattaya