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

Should you visit Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

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 Noosa Heads 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Pattaya travel costs.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a relaxed, peaceful, and scenic coastal town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Noosa Heads is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Noosa Heads travel costs.

Pattaya and Noosa Heads: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pattaya than Noosa Heads, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pattaya is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Noosa Heads is more popular for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Noosa Heads and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Also, Pattaya is famous for the Sanctuary of Truth. Noosa Heads is well known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture.

How is Pattaya different from Noosa Heads?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for its historical sights. However, Noosa Heads is not known for its sights and museums.

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).

Noosa Heads offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Noosa Heads? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Noosa Heads.

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 Noosa Heads is an experience not to be missed. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Pattaya is a world class 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Noosa Heads. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its luxury resorts. However, Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

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.

Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Noosa Heads is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Noosa Heads is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Beaches?

Noosa Heads is terrific for the beach. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Noosa Heads is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Hiking?

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Noosa Heads for the hiking trails. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Noosa Heads to go shopping. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads More Beautiful?

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town for its scenery and beauty. However, Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Noosa Heads is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's stunning natural beauty, breathtaking beaches, and nearby green spaces have made this a popular holiday destination.

Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Noosa Heads are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. 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.

Noosa Heads is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads Better for Couples?

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Noosa Heads. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya and Noosa Heads both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pattaya offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Noosa Heads has a few public transit options. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

Is Pattaya or Noosa Heads a more walkable city?

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Noosa Heads is a very walkable coastal town. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.

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 Noosa Heads Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Noosa Heads or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

It's fun to spend time in either Pattaya or Noosa Heads. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Noosa Heads due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Noosa Heads.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads.

One day in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant resort city of Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

Noosa Heads is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal 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 Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Pattaya. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This resort city 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.

Noosa Heads might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Noosa Heads has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

The vibrant resort city of Pattaya offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Noosa Heads is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Pattaya. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Noosa Heads. Since Noosa Heads is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Noosa Heads?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Noosa Heads. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Noosa Heads, 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 Noosa Heads?

Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads in the Summer?

Both Noosa Heads 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, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Noosa Heads this time of year.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Noosa Heads in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 20°C (67°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Noosa Heads. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Noosa Headsin January. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Noosa Heads in the Autumn?

Both Noosa Heads 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, many travelers come to Noosa Heads for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Noosa Heads. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 14°C (58°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Noosa Headsin April. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 47 mm (1.9 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 Noosa Heads in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Noosa Heads. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, many visitors come to Noosa Heads in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Noosa Headsin July. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Noosa Headsin July. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Noosa Heads in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Noosa Heads. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Noosa Heads for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Pattaya is much warmer than Noosa Heads in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 14°C (57°F)in October.

Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Noosa Headsin October. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 76 mm (3 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 Noosa Heads and Pattaya