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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Picton?

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 Picton. 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 secluded, remote, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Picton

Picton is a quaint, relaxing, and picturesque town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Picton travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Picton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Picton. Although Koh Tarutao and Picton are popular destinations, Picton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Picton is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Picton is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. It is also well known for the Queen Charlotte Track. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Picton 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 Picton?

Picton is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Picton. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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 Picton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Picton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

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 Picton Better for Nightlife?

Picton is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

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 Picton Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Picton is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. 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.

Picton is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Picton Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is very popular for the beach. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Is Koh Tarutao or Picton Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Picton, and they are excellent.

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 Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Picton?

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

Picton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

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 Picton More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Picton Better for Families?

Picton 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 Picton. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

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 Picton Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Picton both excellent 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 Picton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Picton 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 Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

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 Picton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Picton 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.

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

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 Picton a more walkable city?

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

Picton is a very walkable destination. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Tarutao or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Tarutao than Picton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Picton 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 Picton.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing town of Picton. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Picton?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Picton. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This 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 Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The relaxing town of Picton offers museums and food. 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 Picton?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Picton. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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 Picton Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Picton?

Picton 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 Picton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Picton. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Picton in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Pictonin January. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Picton in the Autumn?

Both Picton and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Picton averages at about 15°C (58°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Pictonin April. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Koh Tarutao during the winter 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 Picton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Pictonin July. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Picton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in January than Pictonin July. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Picton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Picton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, most visitors come to Picton for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Picton in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Pictonin October. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Picton and Koh Tarutao