A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Coffs Harbour vs. Cairns for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

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 Cairns 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cairns

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

Coffs Harbour and Cairns: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cairns than Coffs Harbour. Cairns is bigger than Coffs Harbour, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cairns is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking, while Coffs Harbour is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Cairns is more touristy than Coffs Harbour 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. Coffs Harbour is well known for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana".

How is Coffs Harbour different from Cairns?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairns 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 Cairns?

Coffs Harbour is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Coffs Harbour. 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.

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 Coffs Harbour or Cairns? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Coffs Harbour and Cairns offer excellent 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 Cairns. 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.

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is very popular for nightlife. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cairns is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

The people in Coffs Harbour know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Coffs Harbour and Cairns have excellent options.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Cairns to choose from. 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.

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

Cairns is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its diving and snorkeling.

Cairns is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Beaches?

Both Coffs Harbour and Cairns are considered to be terrific beach destinations.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Cairns offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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).

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Hiking?

Cairns is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Cairns visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Coffs Harbour and Cairns.

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.

Cairns is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Families?

Both Coffs Harbour and Cairns are terrific to visit with kids.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular vacation town to visit for families. 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cairns is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Coffs Harbour or Cairns Better for Couples?

Both Coffs Harbour and Cairns are excellent 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 Cairns frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Cairns is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Coffs Harbour 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.

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Cairns 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.

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 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 Cairns a more walkable city?

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

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 Cairns Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairns or Coffs Harbour?

How long in Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

In either Coffs Harbour or Cairns, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Cairns because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Coffs Harbour, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairns.

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

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

One day in Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Coffs Harbour. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the tropical destination of Cairns. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Cairns?

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairns. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic destination of Cairns. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city 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 Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Coffs Harbour. This vacation town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the city of Cairns. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Coffs Harbour and Cairns, we can see that Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour Expensive? and Is Cairns Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Coffs Harbour or Cairns?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Coffs Harbour and Cairns, 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 Cairns?

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 Cairns in the Summer?

Both Cairns and Coffs Harbour are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cairns in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Coffs Harbour is generally cooler than Cairns. Daily temperatures in Coffs Harbour average around 23°C (74°F), and Cairns fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cairns. It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. In January, Coffs Harbour usually receives less rain than Cairns. Coffs Harbour gets 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Cairns is November to March.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Cairns in the Autumn?

Both Cairns and Coffs Harbour during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cairns for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Coffs Harbour is cooler than Cairns in the autumn. The daily temperature in Coffs Harbour averages around 20°C (67°F) in April, and Cairns fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Cairns gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. Coffs Harbour usually gets less rain in April than Cairns. Coffs Harbour gets 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain this time of the year. April to October is the dry season in Cairns.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Cairns in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Coffs Harbour and Cairns. Most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cairns because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Coffs Harbour is much colder than Cairns. Typically, the winter temperatures in Coffs Harbour in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Cairns averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Coffs Harbour usually receives more rain than Cairns. Coffs Harbour gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Cairns in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Coffs Harbour as well as Cairns. The spring months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Cairns this time of year.

In October, Coffs Harbour is generally cooler than Cairns. Daily temperatures in Coffs Harbour average around 19°C (66°F), and Cairns fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the spring. Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in October than Cairns. Coffs Harbour gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to October in Cairns is the dry season. November to March in Cairns is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Cairns and Coffs Harbour