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

Should you visit Wellington or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Wellington or Koh Tao? 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.

Wellington

Wellington is a compact, laid-back, and funky city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Wellington and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wellington or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Wellington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wellington is more popular for its museums and shopping. Wellington is well known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Wellington different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Wellington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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

Both Wellington and Koh Tao offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Wellington has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. 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 Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Wellington and Koh Tao.

Wellington has a large number of nightlife venues. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Koh Tao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Wellington is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Wellington is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. 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.

Wellington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Is Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Koh Tao?

Wellington is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Wellington is well-known for its shopping. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go 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 Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Wellington 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, Wellington is very family-friendly. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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 Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Wellington is a good city for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Wellington is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Wellington or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Wellington 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 Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Wellington is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Wellington can get you to some places easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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 Wellington or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Wellington and Koh Tao are very good when it comes to walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable city. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Koh Tao?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Wellington. 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 Wellington 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 Wellington or Koh Tao?

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

With shopping and nightlife around the popular island of Koh Tao, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wellington or Koh Tao?

In Wellington, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wellington has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Tao, 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Wellington or Koh Tao?

Wellington 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, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wellington or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours 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 Wellington and Koh Tao, we can see that Wellington is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Wellington 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 Wellington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wellington 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 Wellington Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wellington or Koh Tao?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Wellington 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 Wellington or Koh Tao?

Wellington 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 Wellington or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Wellington is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

In Wellington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wellington usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Wellington gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Wellington usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wellington or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Wellington in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the autumn, Wellington is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wellington in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in October.

In the autumn, Wellington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Taoin October. Wellington gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Wellington usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 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 Wellington or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Wellington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Wellington is generally much colder than Koh Taoin January. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 10°C (49°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Wellington usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Wellington gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Wellington. In July, Wellington usually receives more rain than Koh Taoin January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 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 Wellington or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Wellington during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Wellington because of the beaches. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Wellington is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Wellington often gets less sunshine than Koh Taoin April. Wellington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets more rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 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 Wellington