A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fraser Island vs. Lake Tekapo for Couples, Hiking, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo?

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 Lake Tekapo. 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 serene, breathtaking, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, remote, and basic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fraser Island. Although Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo are both popular with visitors, Fraser Island has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fraser Island is more popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Lake Tekapo is known for its shopping and small town charm. Fraser Island is popular for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to the pinnacles. Lake Tekapo is popular for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Fraser Island different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Fraser Island is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Fraser Island offers a few options for museum-goers. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fraser Island. 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.

Lake Tekapo may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Neither Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Fraser Island for the nightlife. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Lake Tekapo doesn't offer many options. This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fraser Island is a island with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fraser Island has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Beaches?

Fraser Island is terrific for the beach. However, Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

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

Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo, and they are excellent.

Fraser Island is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lake Tekapo. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Is the Shopping Better in Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo?

Lake Tekapo is not a good place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lake Tekapo has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Both Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo are excellent 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 Lake Tekapo. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Fraser Island is terrific for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Fraser Island is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fraser Island is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fraser Island is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

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

Neither Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

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

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable place. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

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 Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Fraser Island?

How long in Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fraser Island than Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo.

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

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

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

One day in Fraser Island or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the serene island of Fraser Island. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the small destination of Lake Tekapo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the serene destination of Fraser Island. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Tekapo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning island of Fraser Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the small destination of Lake Tekapo. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Fraser Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the beautiful town of Lake Tekapo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fraser Island and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Fraser Island is more expensive. And not only is Lake Tekapo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake Tekapo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo.

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 Lake Tekapo Expensive?.