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

Should you visit Torquay or Koh Tao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Koh Tao, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Torquay

Torquay is a thriving, outdoorsy, and trendy surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Torquay is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Torquay travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a popular, laid back, and mellow island. Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Torquay and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Torquay or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Torquay, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Torquay is more popular for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Koh Tao is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Torquay different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Torquay or Koh Tao?

Torquay is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Torquay offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

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

Koh Tao is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Tao has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is great for its luxury resorts. However, Torquay is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Torquay is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Tao specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Both Torquay and Koh Tao have amazing beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Koh Tao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Is Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Torquay and Koh Tao are both places where visitors can find superb hiking trails.

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Koh Tao?

If you're looking to go shopping, Torquay and Koh Tao both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Torquay. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major 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 Torquay or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Torquay offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There's a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and nice coastal walks.

Is Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Torquay and Koh Tao are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Torquay offers lots of family activities. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Torquay or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Torquay and Koh Tao are both superb to visit as a couple.

Torquay is a great surf town if you're traveling as a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Tao is extremely popular 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.

Torquay is a good surf town to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

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

Torquay 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 Torquay offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

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 Torquay or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Torquay and Koh Tao are superb when it comes to walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable surf town. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Koh Tao?

Both Torquay 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 Torquay. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Torquay, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Koh Tao than Torquay. 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 Torquay. 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 Torquay 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 Torquay or Koh Tao?

In Torquay, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This surf town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Torquay or Koh Tao?

In Torquay, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Torquay has to offer.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Torquay or Koh Tao?

Torquay 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.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Torquay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in 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 Torquay and Koh Tao, we can see that Torquay is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Torquay 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 Torquay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Torquay 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 Torquay Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Torquay or Koh Tao?

Torquay has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Torquay 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 Torquay or Koh Tao?

Torquay 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 Torquay or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Torquay because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Torquay is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Torquay. In January, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Taoin July. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Torquay or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Torquay during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In the autumn, Torquay is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Torquay in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in October.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Torquay usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Torquay or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Torquay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Torquay is generally cooler than Koh Taoin January. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 15°C (59°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Torquay usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin January. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Torquay or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Torquay in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Torquay is cooler than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 21°C (71°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

Torquay usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Koh Taoin April. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Torquay