A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cairns vs. Napier for Nightlife, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cairns or Napier?

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

Should I visit Cairns or Napier? 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.

Cairns

Cairns is a idyllic, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Napier

Napier is a character-filled, coastal, and relaxed town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cairns and Napier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cairns or Napier?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cairns than Napier. Cairns is bigger than Napier, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cairns is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and shopping, while Napier is more popular for its museums. Cairns is more touristy than Napier and is known for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. Also, Cairns is famous for the Great Barrier Reef. Napier is well known for its many art deco buildings, its beautiful vineyards, and the area's long sandy beaches.

How is Cairns different from Napier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cairns or Napier?

Napier is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Napier offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Considered an "Art Deco capital", there are many interesting buildings around town and it's worth taking an Art Deco Walk. The National Aquarium of New Zealand is also impressive as is the MTG Hawke's Bay, which is a museum, gallery, and theater in one. For something a little outside the box, you can visit the Napier Prison, which is New Zealand's oldest place of incarceration, dating back to 1862.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Is the Food Better in Cairns or Napier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Cairns and Napier.

Cairns has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Napier makes for a great culinary experience. With its many wineries and big mix of fine dining restaurants, there is plenty for a foodie to enjoy around town. You'll find restaurants that serve up New Zealand favorites as well as those that experiment with modern and trendy recipes.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Napier is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cairns is a world class party destination. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

Napier is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse and fun. Whether you're looking for a wild party or just want to relax with a drink and some friends, there are plenty of places where you can hang out.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Resorts?

Cairns is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Napier is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cairns. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Napier is not a resort destination.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Napier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cairns is not to be missed. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Napier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cairns and Napier are world-class choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cairns. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

With world-famous beaches, Napier is a very popular vacation destination. It's a popular beach destination and you'll find plenty of beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and playing with the kids. You'll want to head out of town to find the best and most beautiful beaches. For hidden beaches and some of the area's best surf, head to Mahia Peninsula. To escape the tourists and hang out with the locals, go to Waipatiki Beach. And for a picnic, Westshore Beach is a favorite. Waimarama Beach is another favorite in the area as well.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Cairns specifically for its hiking. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Napier. Hawke's Bay is filled with wonderful walks and hikes. There are easy coastal paths as well as mult-day treks around Lake Waikaremoana. It's not hard to find somewhere to stretch your legs and explore the scenery.

Is the Shopping Better in Cairns or Napier?

Cairns is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Napier is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Napier offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the standard New Zealand retail chains as well antique and boutique shops. With its many Art Deco buildings, the city has character and personality.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Families?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napier is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cairns is one of the most popular family destinations. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Napier is a very kid-friendly city. This coastal city has a waterpark, a waterfall walk, and plenty of beaches where the family can hang out. There's also a waterfront promenade that is filled with water features and playgrounds where the kids can run around. You can also check out Hawke's Bay Farmyard Zoo or on a rainy day head to the Faraday Museum of Technology.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cairns and Napier make for a great place to visit.

Cairns makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Couples visit Napier frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Surrounded by vineyards and lined with beaches, this is a great place for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. Hop on a bike and explore the wineries or enjoy a beautiful hike through nature. There are also adrenaline-filled activities for thrill seekers or fine dining restaurants for the foodies.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Napier is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Cairns. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Napier is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town and plenty of fun activities like mountain biking or white water rafting that you can enjoy.

Is Cairns or Napier Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cairns is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Napier is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cairns has some public transit options. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

Public transit is generally limited in Napier. Public transit to most of the beaches is limited or nonexistent, so you really need a car if you want to get around and see everything.

Is Cairns or Napier a more walkable city?

Cairns and Napier are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Cairns is generally not a very walkable city. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

Napier is generally not very walkable. If you stay in town you can walk to cafes and restaurants, but you really need a car if you're planning to visit beaches or explore the area in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Cairns Worth Visiting? and Is Napier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napier or Cairns?

How long in Cairns or Napier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cairns and Napier. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cairns than in Napier. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Cairns, and 2-3 days is enough time in Napier.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Napier 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 Cairns.

One day in Cairns or Napier?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cairns. 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 destination of Napier. 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.

A weekend in Cairns or Napier?

Cairns is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Napier 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.

Five days in Cairns or Napier?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairns. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napier. 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.

A week in Cairns or Napier?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the tropical destination of Cairns. This city 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Napier. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cairns or Napier?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Napier. When comparing the sizes of Cairns and Napier, 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.