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

Should you visit Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a unique, nature-oriented, and biologically diverse town. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Kaikoura travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Kaikoura and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Kaikoura, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Kaikoura is more popular for its museums and attractions. Kaikoura is well known for its local Sperm Whale population, abundance of marine life, and local crayfish (lobster) recipes. 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 Kaikoura different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kaikoura is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Kaikoura specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There aren't many museums in the area, but it's worth learning more about the region's history with a visit to Kaikoura Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Kaikoura and Koh Tao both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kaikoura. Seafood lovers will be in heaven in this town! There are many local, freshly caught favorites such as cod, mussels, and crayfish (which is actually lobster). You'll find plenty of casual eateries, including an authentic American diner.

Koh Tao has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Koh Tao offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kaikoura. This is a small town so the nightlife scene is limited, but there are a few restaurants with bars around town.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Kaikoura is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many black pebble beaches in the area, which are great for wildlife spotting, but not so good for swimming. Gooch's Beach is one of the most popular, and it's sandier than many of the other beaches. South Bay is another popular area to visit.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Kaikoura and Koh Tao both have very good trails.

Kaikoura is a popular spot for hiking. There are many coastal walks in the area that will take you through a variety of landscapes. This is also a great way to see the many diverse types of wildlife throughout the peninsula.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

Both Kaikoura and Koh Tao are notable shopping destinations.

Kaikoura offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops where you can pick up some interesting products that are unique to the area.

Koh Tao has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Kaikoura or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaikoura is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Kaikoura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Kids who love animals will appreciate all of the wildlife in the area. This is one of the best places in the country to see dolphins, whales, and seals. There are world class whale watching trips as well as opportunities to swim with the dolphins and get close to the seals. There is also kayaking, a coastal train, and even sheep shearing. Minigolf is also a fun activity in the area.

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 Kaikoura or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Kaikoura and Koh Tao make for a very good place to visit.

Kaikoura is a very popular place to visit for couples. The town is all about wildlife, so if whale watching trips, dolphin spotting, and experiencing amazing local wildlife is your thing, then this is your spot! There are also beautiful coastal sights with a dramatic mountain backdrop.

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.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kaikoura. There are a decent number of hostels in the area and plenty of fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Koh Tao is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Kaikoura is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Kaikoura. The town is very small and there is no real public transit in the area.

Is Kaikoura or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. 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.

Kaikoura is a somewhat walkable town. There are many coastal walks in the area, which is a great way to soak up the beauty and see the wildlife. The town itself is small and most of the accommodation is along Beach Road, so it's relatively easy to reach places on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Kaikoura?

How long in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

Both Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kaikoura, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

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

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

In Kaikoura, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Kaikoura has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

Kaikoura 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kaikoura. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Kaikoura. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in 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 Kaikoura and Koh Tao, we can see that Kaikoura is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kaikoura or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kaikoura. When comparing the sizes of Kaikoura 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.