A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rotorua vs. Koh Tao for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Rotorua or Koh Tao?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rotorua and Koh Tao 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.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Rotorua and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Rotorua and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Koh Tao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Tao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Rotorua is known for its museums. Rotorua is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also home to Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Rotorua different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rotorua 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 Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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 Rotorua or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotorua and Koh Tao can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Rotorua has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Koh Tao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rotorua is not a resort destination.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Rotorua is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Both Rotorua and Koh Tao are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tao. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Rotorua and Koh Tao.

Rotorua has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Koh Tao is a great destination for shopping. 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 Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Rotorua is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Rotorua is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Rotorua has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Rotorua and Koh Tao are both first-rate destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rotorua, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Rotorua 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 Rotorua offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

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 Rotorua or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. 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.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Rotorua?

How long in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Both Rotorua 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 Rotorua. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotorua, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Rotorua 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 Rotorua or Koh Tao?

In Rotorua, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

In Rotorua, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotorua has to offer.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 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 Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Rotorua or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotorua. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Budget Tours to New Zealand, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotorua and Koh Tao, we can see that Rotorua is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rotorua 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 Rotorua would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rotorua 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 Rotorua Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Rotorua has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Rotorua 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 Rotorua or Koh Tao?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotorua and Koh Tao. Most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Rotorua is generally much colder than Koh Taoin July. Daily temperatures in Rotorua average around 12°C (54°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Rotorua usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Rotorua gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotorua or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Rotorua as well as Koh Tao. The autumn months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Rotorua is much colder than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotorua averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Rotorua usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Rotorua gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Rotorua or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Rotorua are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotorua 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 winter, Rotorua is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotorua in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F)in January.

In July, Rotorua usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin January. Rotorua gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Should I visit Rotorua or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Rotorua during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In October, Rotorua is generally cooler than Koh Taoin April. Daily temperatures in Rotorua average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Rotorua usually gets less rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Rotorua gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Rotorua