A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Darwin vs. Torquay for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Darwin or Torquay?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Darwin or Torquay, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Darwin

Darwin is a local, tropical, and multicultural town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Torquay

Torquay is a casual, laid back, and hip surf town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Darwin and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Darwin or Torquay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Torquay than Darwin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Darwin is well known for its outdoor markets and tropical weather. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Also, Torquay is famous for Bells Beach.

How is Darwin different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Darwin or Torquay?

Darwin
Torquay

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Darwin and Torquay.

Darwin offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


Is the Food Better in Darwin or Torquay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Darwin
Torquay

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Darwin and Torquay.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Darwin. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Torquay is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Darwin
Torquay

Evening events are notable in both Darwin and Torquay.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Darwin
Torquay

Torquay is terrific for the beache. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Darwin. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.


Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Darwin
Torquay

Darwin and Torquay are both places where visitors can find superb hiking trails.

Darwin is a popular spot for hiking. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Darwin or Torquay?

Darwin
Torquay

Both Darwin and Torquay are notable shopping destinations.

Darwin offers some nice shopping areas. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Torquay has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Families?

Darwin
Torquay

Darwin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Darwin is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.


Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Couples?

Darwin
Torquay

Torquay is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Torquay is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Darwin is a good town for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Darwin
Torquay

Both Darwin and Torquay are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Darwin. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

Torquay is a good town to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Darwin or Torquay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Darwin
Torquay

Both Darwin and Torquay offer notable public transit options.

Darwin has a few public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

Torquay has some public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.


Is Darwin or Torquay a more walkable city?

Darwin
Torquay

Torquay is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Torquay is a very walkable surf town. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Darwin is a somewhat walkable town. There are biking and walking paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Darwin Worth Visiting? and Is Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Darwin?

How long in Darwin or Torquay?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Darwin and Torquay. In our opinion, Torquay has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Torquay than Darwin. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Torquay than Darwin 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 Torquay.


  • How many days in Darwin or Torquay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Darwin 2-3 
    Torquay 2-3

One day in Darwin or Torquay?

In Darwin, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Torquay. 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 Darwin or Torquay?

In Darwin, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Darwin has to offer.

Torquay 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 Darwin or Torquay?

Darwin is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. 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 Darwin or Torquay?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Darwin. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Darwin. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the thriving destination of Torquay. This surf 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 Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Australia, and The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay or Darwin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Darwin is $111, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $87. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Darwin and Torquay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Darwin $62
    Torquay $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Darwin $124
    Torquay $78
Compare Hotels in Darwin and Torquay

Looking for a hotel in Darwin or Torquay? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Darwin


Hotels in Torquay


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Darwin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Darwin $12
    Torquay $39
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Darwin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Darwin:


  • Shuttle to Train Station
    $9.77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Darwin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Darwin:

  • Darwin Int Airport (DRW) to Darwin - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $143
  • PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER Darwin Airport & Darwin Hotels (oneway): $99
  • Crocodile Jumping Boat Cruise with Transfer from Darwin: $90
  • Private Transfer from Darwin City Hotels to Darwin Cruise Port: $59
  • Private Transfer from Darwin Cruise Port to Darwin Airport (DRW): $59
  • Private Transfer from Darwin Airport (DRW) to Darwin Cruise Port: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Darwin or Torquay?

Prices for flights to both Torquay and Darwin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Darwin $37
    Torquay $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Darwin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Darwin.

  • Sunset Harbour Cruise with Fish and Chips Dinner: $65
  • Darwin Harbor Sunset Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $85
  • Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise: $91
  • Sunset 3-Hour Cruise from Darwin with Dinner and Sparkling Wine: $112
  • Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise on Cape Adieu: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Darwin $15
    Torquay $11

Tours and Activities in Darwin

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Darwin are as follows:

  • Horse Riding Adventure in the Outback: $292
  • 1 Day Corroboree Billabong Wetland Experience including 2.5 hour cruise + lunch: $139
  • 1 Hour Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River: $30
  • 4 Hour Self Guided Gourmet Lunch and Aboriginal Art Tours: $139
  • 4-Hour Outback Gourmet Food & Aboriginal Art Tour: $165
  • Arnhem Land Yingana Injalak Hill Full Day Tour from Darwin: $229
  • Bombing of Darwin World War II Tour with Harbour Cruise: $99
  • Corroboree Billabong 2.5 hour Lunch Cruise: $73
  • Crocosaurus Cove General Admission Ticket: $25
  • Darwin City & Mindil Beach Sunset Market experience: $90
  • Darwin City Explorer Tour: $103
  • Darwin Combo: The Bombing of Darwin Experience & Darwin Harbour Cruise: $50

Tours and Activities in Torquay

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Torquay.

  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $66
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $83
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $86
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $93
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $94
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Darwin $13
    Torquay $7.45
Typical Alcohol Prices in Darwin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Darwin from other travelers:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $16
  • Glass of Wine
    $4.56


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

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


Which is Bigger, Darwin or Torquay?

Darwin has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Darwin and Torquay, 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 Darwin or Torquay?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Darwin or Torquay in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Darwin as well as Torquay. The summer months attract visitors to Darwin because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

Darwin is a little warmer than Torquay in the summer. The daily temperature in Darwin averages around 29°C (83°F) in January, and Torquay fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite rainy in Torquay. Darwin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Darwin usually gets more rain in January than Torquay. Darwin gets 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Darwin 29°C (83°F) 
    Torquay 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Darwin or Torquay in the Autumn?

Both Torquay and Darwin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Darwin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Darwin is a little warmer than Torquay. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Darwin in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Torquay averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In April, Darwin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Torquay. Darwin gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Darwin 29°C (84°F) 
    Torquay 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Darwin or Torquay in the Winter?

Both Torquay and Darwin during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Darwin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Torquay in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Darwin is generally much warmer than Torquay. Daily temperatures in Darwin average around 25°C (77°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Darwin usually gets less rain in July than Torquay. Darwin gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Darwin 25°C (77°F) 
    Torquay 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Darwin or Torquay in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Darwin and Torquay. Many visitors come to Darwin in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Darwin is a little warmer than Torquay in the spring. The daily temperature in Darwin averages around 29°C (85°F) in October, and Torquay fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

In October, Darwin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Torquay. Darwin gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Darwin 29°C (85°F) 
    Torquay 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Torquay and Darwin

Darwin Torquay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 29°C (83°F) 437 mm (17.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 28°C (83°F) 343 mm (13.5 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 28°C (83°F) 342 mm (13.5 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 27°C (81°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 29°C (85°F) 76 mm (3 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 30°C (85°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 29°C (85°F) 234 mm (9.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)