A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan? 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.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a vibrant, high energy, and trendy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Newcastle travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a high energy, funky, and beautiful party island. With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Newcastle and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan than Newcastle, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Pha Ngan is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Newcastle and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for the Full Moon Parties. Newcastle is well known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks.

How is Newcastle different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Newcastle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle makes for a great culinary experience. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-see party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Newcastle has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its resorts. However, Newcastle is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Newcastle is not a resort destination.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few good snorkeling spots. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for the beach. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Newcastle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Many people include a hike when visiting Newcastle. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Newcastle is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Newcastle is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Newcastle is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Newcastle and Koh Pha Ngan make for a notable place to visit.

Newcastle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular party island to visit for backpackers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Newcastle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Newcastle and Koh Pha Ngan both are notable when exploring on foot.

Newcastle is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is somewhat walkable. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Newcastle?

How long in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Newcastle because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Newcastle 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Newcastle, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party island of Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Newcastle is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the high energy destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Newcastle. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-oriented party island of Koh Pha Ngan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this party island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this party island has to offer.

A week in Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Newcastle is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan 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 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle and Koh Pha Ngan. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newcastle this time of year. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the summer, Newcastle is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in July.

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Newcastle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Newcastle usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Nganin July. Newcastle gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Newcastle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In April, Newcastle is generally cooler than Koh Pha Nganin October. Daily temperatures in Newcastle average around 19°C (67°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Newcastle receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle usually gets less rain in April than Koh Pha Nganin October. Newcastle gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. October and November in Koh Pha Ngan is the rainy season.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Newcastle are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newcastle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Newcastle is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

In July, Newcastle usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Nganin January. Newcastle gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Newcastle during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the spring, Newcastle is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in April.

Newcastle usually gets more rain in October than Koh Pha Nganin April. Newcastle gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Newcastle