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

Should you visit Newcastle or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Newcastle 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.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a high energy, trendy, and coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Newcastle travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Newcastle and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle. Although Newcastle and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Newcastle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newcastle is more popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Tao is more touristy than Newcastle and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Newcastle is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. It is also home to the Bathers Way.

How is Newcastle different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Newcastle and Koh Tao.

Dining out in Newcastle is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Koh Tao. 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 Newcastle or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Both Newcastle and Koh Tao are very good when it comes to partying.

Newcastle offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Newcastle or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

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

Newcastle is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Newcastle or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao 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 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.

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 Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao 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 Tao is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

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 Tao?

Newcastle is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Newcastle is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. 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 Newcastle or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Newcastle or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Newcastle or Koh Tao.

Newcastle is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly city. 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 Newcastle or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

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

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

Koh Tao is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Newcastle is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Newcastle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

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.

Is Newcastle or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

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

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Newcastle?

How long in Newcastle or Koh Tao?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Newcastle. 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 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 Tao.

One day in Newcastle or Koh Tao?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Koh Tao. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tao?

In Newcastle, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newcastle has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Newcastle or Koh Tao?

Newcastle 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.

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

A week in Newcastle or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle. 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 popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newcastle and Koh Tao, we can see that Newcastle is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Newcastle 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 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 Tao.

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle or Koh Tao?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 360 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle 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.

When is the best time to visit Newcastle or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In January, Newcastle is generally around the same temperature as Koh Taoin July. Daily temperatures in Newcastle average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. In the summer, Newcastle often gets more sunshine than Koh Taoin July. Newcastle gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Newcastle receives a lot of rain in the summer. Newcastle usually gets less rain in January than Koh Taoin July. Newcastle gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Newcastle are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newcastle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Newcastle is cooler than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle averages around 19°C (67°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in October.

Newcastle usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Newcastle gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Newcastle. In April, Newcastle usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin October. Newcastle gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Newcastle during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In the winter, Newcastle is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F)in January.

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Newcastle. In the winter, Newcastle often gets less sunshine than Koh Taoin January. Newcastle gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Newcastle usually gets less rain in July than Koh Taoin January. Newcastle gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Newcastle or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle and Koh Tao. The spring months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Newcastle is generally cooler than Koh Taoin April. Daily temperatures in Newcastle average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. Newcastle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during spring. Newcastle gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Newcastle usually receives more rain than Koh Taoin April. Newcastle gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Newcastle