A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alice Springs vs. Paihia for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Alice Springs or Paihia?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Alice Springs and Paihia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a friendly, laid back, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Paihia

Paihia is a fun-filled, beautiful, and relaxing coastal town. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Alice Springs and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alice Springs or Paihia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paihia. Although Alice Springs and Paihia are both popular with visitors, Paihia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paihia is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Alice Springs is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Paihia is more touristy than Alice Springs and is known for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. It is also home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Alice Springs is popular for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Alice Springs different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alice Springs or Paihia?

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Paihia and Alice Springs.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Alice Springs. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Paihia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

Is the Food Better in Alice Springs or Paihia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paihia is a great coastal town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Paihia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Alice Springs and Paihia.

If you're looking for night time activities Alice Springs has a few options to choose from. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Paihia. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is a great coastal town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paihia is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Paihia is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Paihia is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Alice Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Paihia. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Alice Springs or Paihia?

If you're looking to go shopping, Alice Springs and Paihia both offer plenty of good spots.

Alice Springs has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Paihia is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Paihia is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

Alice Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Couples?

Paihia is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Paihia is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alice Springs and Paihia are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paihia. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paihia is a coastal town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

While Paihia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Alice Springs or Paihia a more walkable city?

Alice Springs and Paihia are good when it comes to walkability.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Paihia is somewhat walkable. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Paihia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Alice Springs?

How long in Alice Springs or Paihia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paihia than Alice Springs 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 Paihia.

One day in Alice Springs or Paihia?

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of Paihia. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Alice Springs or Paihia?

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paihia. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Alice Springs or Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun-filled destination of Paihia. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Alice Springs or Paihia?

Alice Springs is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal town of Paihia. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alice Springs Expensive? and Is Paihia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alice Springs or Paihia?

Alice Springs has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Alice Springs and Paihia, 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.