A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fraser Island vs. Arrowtown for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

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 Fraser Island and Arrowtown. 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.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a stunning, serene, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic, charming, and quaint town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Fraser Island and Arrowtown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arrowtown. Although Fraser Island and Arrowtown are popular destinations, Arrowtown has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arrowtown is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Fraser Island attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Arrowtown is more touristy than Fraser Island and is popular for its gold rush history, impressive ski slopes, and famous hikes. It is also well known for the Chinese Settlement. Fraser Island is famous for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

How is Fraser Island different from Arrowtown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Skiing?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Fraser Island is not a skiing destination.

People head to Arrowtown specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. In the area you'll find amazing skiing that ranges from professional level to family-friendly.

Fraser Island is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

Arrowtown is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Arrowtown offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town feels likes a living museum with its historic sights. There's also the Lakes District Museum in town that you can visit.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.

Is the Food Better in Fraser Island or Arrowtown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arrowtown. For such a small town, there's a surprising number of great restaurants with award winning chefs. You'll find quaint cafes, traditional eateries, and casual restaurants where you can sample the local dishes.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Nightlife?

Arrowtown is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Arrowtown. For such a small town, there's a surprisingly bustling nightlife scene with casual pubs and waterfront bars.

Fraser Island doesn't offer many options. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fraser Island is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arrowtown is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Arrowtown is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Beaches?

Fraser Island is terrific for its beaches. However, Arrowtown is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fraser Island is a very popular vacation destination. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Arrowtown is not a beach destination.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for its Old Town?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its old town. However, Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arrowtown. This is a quirky and charming historic mining town that has many cottages and historic buildings. Many places have been restored to maintain their original character.

Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Hiking?

Arrowtown is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Fraser Island is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Arrowtown is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this town as a jumping off point for some of the world's most iconic hikes. You can explore Lord of the Rings country or do one of fifteen different listed walks in the area.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Is the Shopping Better in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arrowtown is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is an experience in town. Head to Buckingham Street, which is the main street in town. You can wander through a wild west setting with local vendors and quirky galleries.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Families?

Both Fraser Island and Arrowtown are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Fraser Island is a very kid-friendly island. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Arrowtown. Kids will enjoy the old world charm as much as adults. There's gold panning, bike trails, and even a historic Chinese village. During the winter there are snow sports and during the summer there are outdoor activities that take advantage of the nice weather.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Couples?

Fraser Island is terrific for romance. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Fraser Island has plenty to offer. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

Couples visit Arrowtown frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming atmosphere and beautiful walks make this a great weekend destination for couples. You can take a stroll on the Arrow River Walkway or grab a meal at a quaint cafe followed by ice cream at a classic ice cream parlor.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Fraser Island and Arrowtown are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Fraser Island is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arrowtown. There are a couple of hostels in town and backpackers love the frequent festivals and activities that the town hosts.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arrowtown is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for times when you don't have a car.

Arrowtown has a few public transit options. There are public buses throughout the region.

Public transit is quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Is Fraser Island or Arrowtown a more walkable city?

Arrowtown is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Arrowtown is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are fun to explore on foot.

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

For even more information, also check out Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting? and Is Arrowtown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arrowtown or Fraser Island?

How long in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fraser Island or Arrowtown to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fraser Island than Arrowtown because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Fraser Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arrowtown.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arrowtown than Fraser Island 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 Arrowtown.

One day in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

You'll find around the island of Fraser Island. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Arrowtown is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

You'll find around the stunning destination of Fraser Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arrowtown. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

You'll find around the serene island of Fraser Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Arrowtown is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 Fraser Island or Arrowtown?

Fraser Island is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Arrowtown is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand.

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

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