A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Surfers Paradise for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a thrilling, active, and ritzy city. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Surfers Paradise, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Surfers Paradise is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Chiang Mai is well known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Surfers Paradise is well known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports.

How is Chiang Mai different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Mai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Surfers Paradise makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Surfers Paradise just to party. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Surfers Paradise for its luxury resorts. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Chiang Mai to see the historical old town. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Chiang Mai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise both offer plenty of world-class spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

The abundance of shops in Surfers Paradise make it a world-class shopping destination. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is very family-friendly. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise both great destinations for a couple.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Surfers Paradise is a very popular place to visit for couples. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise are world-class places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Chiang Mai. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Surfers Paradise. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Surfers Paradise has a few public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise are notable when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable place. There are walking and bike paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Both Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Surfers Paradise has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Surfers Paradise than Chiang Mai. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Surfers Paradise 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy city of Surfers Paradise, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Surfers Paradise, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Surfers Paradise is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise, 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 Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Surfers Paradise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Surfers Paradisein January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Surfers Paradisein January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Surfers Paradise. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradisein April. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Surfers Paradisein April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Surfers Paradise during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Chiang Mai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Surfers Paradisein October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradisein October. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Surfers Paradisein October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Chiang Mai