A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Coffs Harbour vs. Canberra for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

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 Canberra 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a under-rated, cultural, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Coffs Harbour and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Coffs Harbour than Canberra. While Canberra is larger than Coffs Harbour, Coffs Harbour has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Coffs Harbour is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Canberra attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Coffs Harbour is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also well known for the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Canberra is famous for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Coffs Harbour different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Canberra 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 Canberra. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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 Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Coffs Harbour and Canberra 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 Canberra. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Resorts?

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

Coffs Harbour is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

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

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is terrific for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Coffs Harbour. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Coffs Harbour is well-known for its shopping. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Coffs Harbour is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Canberra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Couples?

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Canberra is a good vacation town for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

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

Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Coffs Harbour. 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Coffs Harbour or Canberra Better for Students?

Canberra 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 Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Coffs Harbour is not popular with students.

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

Canberra 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.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

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 Canberra a more walkable city?

Canberra is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Canberra is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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 Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Coffs Harbour?

How long in Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

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

Families should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Coffs Harbour than Canberra 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra?

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 Canberra. 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 Canberra?

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 diverse destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra?

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 Canberra. 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 comparing the travel costs between Coffs Harbour and Canberra, we can see that Coffs Harbour 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 Canberra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Coffs Harbour or Canberra?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Coffs Harbour and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

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 Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra 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 Canberra in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. In January, Coffs Harbour usually receives more rain than Canberra. Coffs Harbour gets 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra 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 Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In April, Coffs Harbour is generally a little warmer than Canberra. Daily temperatures in Coffs Harbour average around 20°C (67°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Canberra 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 more rain in April than Canberra. Coffs Harbour gets 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Coffs Harbour and Canberra. 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 Canberra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In July, Coffs Harbour usually receives more rain than Canberra. Coffs Harbour gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Coffs Harbour or Canberra in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Coffs Harbour is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Coffs Harbour in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Canberra averages at about 15°C (60°F).

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the spring. Coffs Harbour usually gets more rain in October than Canberra. Coffs Harbour gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Coffs Harbour