A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hat Yai vs. Coffs Harbour for Food, Families, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a cultural, lively, and festive city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Hat Yai travel costs.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a fun, nature-filled, and lively vacation town. Coffs Harbour offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Coffs Harbour travel costs.

Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Coffs Harbour than Hat Yai. While Hat Yai is larger than Coffs Harbour, Coffs Harbour has more sights and attractions for tourists. Coffs Harbour is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hat Yai is more popular for its food and big city activities. Coffs Harbour is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". Also, Coffs Harbour is famous for the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Coffs Harbour and Hat Yai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hat Yai. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Coffs Harbour is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Is the Food Better in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hat Yai is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Coffs Harbour. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Coffs Harbour has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is notable for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Coffs Harbour is a popular spot for hiking. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Both Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Coffs Harbour. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour More Beautiful?

Coffs Harbour is a vacation town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Coffs Harbour offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its beautiful coastline and nice mountain landscapes, there is plenty of beauty to explore. There are also nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries where you can immerse yourself in the natural environment.

Hat Yai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular vacation town to visit for families. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Coffs Harbour is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Coffs Harbour is notable for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Coffs Harbour is a very popular vacation town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Public transit is mostly limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Hat Yai is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable city. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Both Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than in Hat Yai. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Coffs Harbour.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Hat Yai 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Hat Yai. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This vacation town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful destination of Hat Yai. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Hat Yai. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. In Coffs Harbour, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hat Yai Expensive? and Is Coffs Harbour Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour, 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 Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hat Yai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

Both Coffs Harbour and Hat Yai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

In the summer, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hat Yai in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hat Yai. In the summer, Hat Yai often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin January. Hat Yai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in July than Coffs Harbourin January. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Coffs Harbour. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hat Yai is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin April. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 28°C (82°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. Hat Yai usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during autumn. Hat Yai gets 182 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Coffs Harbourin April. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Coffs Harbour. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hat Yai is much warmer than Coffs Harbour in the winter. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the winter, Hat Yai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbourin July. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun.

Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in January than Coffs Harbourin July. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hat Yai is much warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hat Yai in April average around 30°C (85°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour during spring. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. In April, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin October. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hat Yai is January to April. The rainy season in Hat Yai is May to December.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Hat Yai