A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taupo vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Taupo

Taupo is a striking, stunning, and otherworldly town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Taupo attracts visitors for its skiing, food, shopping, and small town charm. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Taupo and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Taupo is famous for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

How is Taupo different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Skiing?

Taupo is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is among the world's best ski destinations. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Koh Pha Ngan is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Koh Pha Ngan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taupo is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Taupo makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its resorts. However, Taupo is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Taupo is not a resort destination.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few good snorkeling spots. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Taupo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Taupo is not a beach destination.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan both have great trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Taupo is very good for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Taupo is a great destination for shopping. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Taupo is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Taupo is one of the most popular family destinations. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Taupo is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Taupo has plenty to offer. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan are world-class places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Pha Ngan, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Taupo is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Taupo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan both are nice when exploring on foot.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable place. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable town. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Taupo Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Taupo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Taupo, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

One day in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Taupo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this otherworldly town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this high energy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This party 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 Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Taupo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the striking destination of Taupo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the skiing. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Taupo is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Taupo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Taupo has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Taupo and Koh Pha Ngan, 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.