A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Coffs Harbour vs. Auckland for Beaches, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Coffs Harbour and Auckland 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.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a nature-filled, lively, and relaxing vacation town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Coffs Harbour and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland than Coffs Harbour. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Auckland is very popular for its museums & sights and big city activities, while Coffs Harbour attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Coffs Harbour is famous for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower.

How is Coffs Harbour different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Coffs Harbour offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Is the Food Better in Coffs Harbour or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Coffs Harbour and Auckland offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Coffs Harbour. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Auckland. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Both Coffs Harbour and Auckland have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Coffs Harbour has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Coffs Harbour. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Coffs Harbour. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Coffs Harbour is a very popular vacation destination. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Coffs Harbour. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Coffs Harbour and Auckland.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Coffs Harbour. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Auckland is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Families?

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

Coffs Harbour is one of the most popular family destinations. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Couples?

Both Coffs Harbour and Auckland are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Coffs Harbour makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Coffs Harbour and Auckland are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Coffs Harbour is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Auckland is a great vacation town to visit for backpackers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Coffs Harbour is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Coffs Harbour is not popular with students.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Auckland is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Coffs Harbour or Auckland a more walkable city?

Auckland is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Auckland is generally not a very walkable city. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable vacation town. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Coffs Harbour?

How long in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Coffs Harbour and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than in Auckland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Coffs Harbour, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Coffs Harbour 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 Auckland.

One day in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

The vacation town of Coffs Harbour offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Auckland is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Coffs Harbour is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Coffs Harbour is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Coffs Harbour, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Coffs Harbour has to offer. This vacation town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Auckland. 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 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Coffs Harbour and Auckland, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Coffs Harbour and Auckland, 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 Coffs Harbour or Auckland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Coffs Harbour are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Coffs Harbour is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Coffs Harbour in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Auckland averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Auckland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. Coffs Harbour usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auckland during summer. Coffs Harbour gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. In January, Coffs Harbour usually receives more rain than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Coffs Harbour during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In April, Coffs Harbour is generally a little warmer than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Coffs Harbour average around 20°C (67°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. In the autumn, Coffs Harbour often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in April than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Coffs Harbour and Auckland. The winter months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

Coffs Harbour is a little warmer than Auckland in the winter. The daily temperature in Coffs Harbour averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. Coffs Harbour usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Coffs Harbour gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In July, Coffs Harbour usually receives less rain than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Coffs Harbour as well as Auckland. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Coffs Harbour is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Coffs Harbour in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Auckland averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. In the spring, Coffs Harbour often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 257 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the spring. Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in October than Auckland. Coffs Harbour gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Coffs Harbour