A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Noosa Heads for Beaches, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. The beauty of Koh Tarutao is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a charming, laid back, and relaxed coastal town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Noosa Heads attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking. See Noosa Heads travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Noosa Heads. Although Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads are both popular with visitors, Noosa Heads has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Noosa Heads is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Tarutao is known for its resorts. Noosa Heads is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture. It is also home to Noosa Main Beach. Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Noosa Heads?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

Noosa Heads is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Noosa Heads specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Noosa Heads is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Noosa Heads has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Nightlife?

Noosa Heads is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Noosa Heads. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Koh Tarutao, but you'll find a few options to choose from. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads both offer fantastic beaches.

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Noosa Heads. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads, and they are very good.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Noosa Heads. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

Noosa Heads is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Noosa Heads has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Noosa Heads is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's stunning natural beauty, breathtaking beaches, and nearby green spaces have made this a popular holiday destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Families?

Noosa Heads is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Noosa Heads. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads both very good destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Couples visit Noosa Heads frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Noosa Heads is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Noosa Heads. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Noosa Heads is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Noosa Heads has some public transit options. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads a more walkable city?

Noosa Heads is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Noosa Heads is a very walkable destination. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Noosa Heads Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Noosa Heads or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Noosa Heads due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 2-4 days is enough time in Noosa Heads.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Noosa Heads than Koh Tarutao 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 Noosa Heads.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Koh Tarutao. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

Noosa Heads is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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.

Noosa Heads might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal town 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.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

The remote island of Koh Tarutao offers . 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.

Because Noosa Heads is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

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

Since Noosa Heads is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Koh Tarutao is in Asia and Noosa Heads is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads?

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Noosa Heads. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Noosa Heads because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Tarutao is generally a little warmer than Noosa Headsin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

Noosa Heads receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Noosa Headsin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Noosa Heads. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Noosa Heads this time of year.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Noosa Heads in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in April.

Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Noosa Headsin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads in the Winter?

Both Noosa Heads and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Noosa Heads for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Noosa Heads. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Tarutao in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 7°C (44°F)in July.

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Noosa Headsin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Noosa Heads in the Spring?

Both Noosa Heads and Koh Tarutao during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Noosa Heads in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Noosa Headsin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 29°C (85°F), and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Noosa Headsin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Noosa Heads and Koh Tarutao