A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Koh Tao for Beaches, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Perth or Koh Tao?

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 Perth and Koh Tao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a relaxed, easy-going, and isolated city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Perth travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Perth and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Perth and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Koh Tao is more touristy than Perth and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Perth or Koh Tao?

Perth is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Perth can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Perth or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is great for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is great for its luxury resorts. However, Perth is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Perth is not a resort destination.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Perth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao is not to be missed. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Perth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Perth and Koh Tao are terrific choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Perth is a very popular vacation destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

The beaches in Koh Tao are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao for the hiking trails. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Koh Tao?

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Koh Tao both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Perth. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Perth or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Perth is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Perth is very family-friendly. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is great for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Koh Tao is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Perth or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Perth is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Perth is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Perth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Perth or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Perth?

How long in Perth or Koh Tao?

Both Perth and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Perth. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Perth 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Perth or Koh Tao?

In Perth, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Perth or Koh Tao?

In Perth, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Perth has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. 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 Perth or Koh Tao?

Perth 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.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Perth or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Perth. 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.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Koh Tao?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 1050 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Koh Tao, 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 Perth or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Perth or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Perth is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Perth in January average around 25°C (76°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Perth during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Perth for the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In April, Perth is generally cooler than Koh Taoin October. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 19°C (67°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Perth. In the autumn, Perth often gets more sunshine than Koh Taoin October. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Perth usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Perth or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Perth in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Perth is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Perth usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Koh Taoin January. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Perth or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Perth as well as Koh Tao. Most visitors come to Perth for the beaches during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the spring, Perth is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Perth in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. In the spring, Perth often gets more sunshine than Koh Taoin April. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Perth