A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Pattaya or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast 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 high energy, colorful, and active resort city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a glamourous, vibrant, and colorful coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pattaya and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Gold Coast?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gold Coast than Pattaya, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Pattaya is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Gold Coast is popular for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches.

How is Pattaya different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Gold Coast is a great coastline for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Gold Coast. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Gold Coast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Gold Coast.

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 Gold Coast is an experience not to be missed. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Pattaya or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Pattaya and Gold Coast.

Pattaya is a must-see party destination. 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.

Gold Coast is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

Is Pattaya or Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its resorts.

Gold Coast is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

There are plenty of resorts in Pattaya to choose from. 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.

Is Pattaya or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gold Coast is a great coastline for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

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 Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

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

Gold Coast is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

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 Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Gold Coast is a great coastline for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Gold Coast for the hiking trails. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Gold Coast?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pattaya and Gold Coast both offer plenty of excellent 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 Gold Coast. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

Is Pattaya or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular coastline to visit for families. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Gold Coast is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Gold Coast is a great coastline for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

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 Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Gold Coast is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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 Gold Coast Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gold Coast is a great coastline for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its public transit.

The public transit in Gold Coast can get you around easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

Pattaya has a few 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.

Is Pattaya or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Gold Coast is a coastline with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Gold Coast is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Gold Coast?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Pattaya or Gold Coast?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant resort city of Pattaya, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Gold Coast, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastline 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 Gold Coast?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Pattaya, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this resort city.

In Gold Coast, 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. 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 Gold Coast?

Pattaya, a popular resort city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Gold Coast?

Pattaya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gold Coast. In Gold Coast, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Gold Coast in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pattaya is a little warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pattaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. Pattaya usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Gold Coastin January. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

Both Gold Coast and Pattaya during the autumn 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 Gold Coast for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Gold Coastin April. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coastin April. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Gold Coastin April. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 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.

Should I visit Pattaya or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Gold Coast. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pattaya is much warmer than Gold Coast in the winter. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Gold Coast during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Gold Coastin July. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Gold Coast in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Gold Coast. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

In the spring, Pattaya is a little warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pattaya in April average around 30°C (86°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the spring, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coastin October. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Gold Coastin October. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 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.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Pattaya