A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wollongong vs. Koh Phi Phi for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi? 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.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Wollongong and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Wollongong and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Koh Phi Phi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wollongong is known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Wollongong and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also home to Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Wollongong is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches.

How is Wollongong different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Wollongong offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wollongong is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Wollongong has a huge number of terrific restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Wollongong and Koh Phi Phi.

Many people head to Wollongong for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

Koh Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Wollongong is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Phi Phi is a great choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Wollongong is not a resort destination.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Phi Phi. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is great for hiking. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Koh Phi Phi for the hiking trails. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Wollongong is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Wollongong. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Wollongong is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Wollongong is very family-friendly. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Koh Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Phi Phi, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Wollongong is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Wollongong is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Wollongong has some very good public transit options. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Wollongong is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable coastal city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Wollongong Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Wollongong?

How long in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wollongong and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wollongong than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wollongong, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Wollongong 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 Phi Phi.

One day in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant coastal city of Wollongong. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the stunning island of Koh Phi Phi, 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 Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the student-friendly destination of Wollongong. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Phi Phi, 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 Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

The trendy coastal city of Wollongong offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Koh Phi Phi, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wollongong. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Wollongong and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Wollongong are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In January, Wollongong is generally cooler than Koh Phi Phiin July. Daily temperatures in Wollongong average around 23°C (74°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. Wollongong usually receives more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Wollongong gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In January, Wollongong usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phiin July. Wollongong gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Wollongong during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

Wollongong is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wollongong averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in October.

In the autumn, Wollongong often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Phi Phiin October. Wollongong gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Wollongong usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phiin October. Wollongong gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Wollongong is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wollongong in July average around 10°C (50°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wollongong usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Wollongong gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Wollongong usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phiin January. Wollongong gets 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season.

Should I visit Wollongong or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Wollongong as well as Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors come to Wollongong in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In October, Wollongong is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phiin April. Daily temperatures in Wollongong average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. In the spring, Wollongong often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Phi Phiin April. Wollongong gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Wollongong usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phiin April. Wollongong gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Wollongong