A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Auckland for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Koh Samui or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Auckland? 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.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Auckland travel costs.

Koh Samui and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland. Although Koh Samui and Auckland are both popular with visitors, Auckland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Auckland is more popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Samui is more touristy than Auckland and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower.

How is Koh Samui different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Auckland is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Auckland offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Auckland can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Auckland makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Samui is a perfect choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Samui is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Samui. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Auckland is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Auckland.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Auckland is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Auckland make for a great place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Auckland are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Auckland is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Koh Samui and Auckland both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Auckland has a few public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Koh Samui or Auckland a more walkable city?

Koh Samui and Auckland are decent when it comes to walkability.

Koh Samui is generally not a very walkable resort island. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Samui and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Auckland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Auckland 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Auckland?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui 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.

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Auckland?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cosmopolitan city of Auckland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Auckland?

Koh Samui 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 Samui has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Auckland, 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 Koh Samui or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Auckland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Aucklandin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Aucklandin January. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Auckland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Auckland. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Auckland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Koh Samui is a little warmer than Auckland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Aucklandin April. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Auckland in the Winter?

Both Auckland and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland and Koh Samui during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Aucklandin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Aucklandin October. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Koh Samui