A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kamakura vs. Cairns for Nightlife, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Kamakura or Cairns?

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

Should I visit Kamakura or Cairns? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a quaint, charming, and laid back coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cairns

Cairns is a tropical, idyllic, and outdoorsy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kamakura and Cairns: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kamakura or Cairns?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cairns than Kamakura, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cairns is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Kamakura is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Cairns is more touristy than Kamakura and is popular 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. Kamakura is well known for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Kamakura different from Cairns?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kamakura or Cairns?

Kamakura is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Kamakura offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

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 Kamakura or Cairns? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Kamakura and Cairns can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kamakura makes for a great culinary experience. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Cairns has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Kamakura or Cairns Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cairns is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Kamakura has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Resorts?

Cairns is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Cairns is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cairns a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Beaches?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cairns. 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).

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cairns does not have a historic old town.

Kamakura has an old town worth visiting. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Cairns does not have a historic old town.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Hiking?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Cairns specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Is the Shopping Better in Kamakura or Cairns?

Cairns is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cairns is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Families?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Kamakura is a family-friendly coastal city. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Kamakura or Cairns Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Kamakura and Cairns make for a high quality place to visit.

Kamakura is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Cairns makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Kamakura or Cairns Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cairns is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

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

Both Kamakura and Cairns offer notable public transit options.

Kamakura has a few public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

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.

Is Kamakura or Cairns a more walkable city?

Kamakura is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable coastal city. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Kamakura Worth Visiting? and Is Cairns Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairns or Kamakura?

How long in Kamakura or Cairns?

In either Kamakura or Cairns, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairns than Kamakura because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kamakura, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairns.

Families should spend more time in Cairns than Kamakura. 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 Kamakura. 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 Kamakura 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 Kamakura or Cairns?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kamakura. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Cairns offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

A weekend in Kamakura or Cairns?

Kamakura is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cairns 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.

Five days in Kamakura or Cairns?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamakura. 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.

Cairns is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cairns, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kamakura or Cairns?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Kamakura. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cairns is a great place to explore. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Kamakura and Cairns, we can see that Kamakura 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. Even though Kamakura is in Asia and Cairns is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Kamakura or Cairns?

Kamakura has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Cairns. When comparing the sizes of Kamakura 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 Kamakura or Cairns?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Cairns is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Kamakura has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Kamakura or Cairns in the Summer?

Both Cairns and Kamakura during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairns this time of year.

In July, Kamakura is generally cooler than Cairnsin January. Daily temperatures in Kamakura average around 25°C (77°F), and Cairns fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Cairns gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. Kamakura usually gets less rain in July than Cairnsin January. Kamakura gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to March is the rainy season in Cairns.

Should I visit Kamakura or Cairns in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kamakura and Cairns. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamakura this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cairns for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Kamakura is cooler than Cairns in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kamakura averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Cairns fluctuates around 27°C (80°F)in April.

Cairns receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kamakura usually receives less rain than Cairnsin April. Kamakura gets 177 mm (7 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. April to October in Cairns is the dry season.

Should I visit Kamakura or Cairns in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kamakura as well as Cairns. Many travelers come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cairns in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kamakura is much colder than Cairns. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kamakura in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Cairns averages at about 23°C (73°F)in July.

Kamakura usually gets more rain in January than Cairnsin July. Kamakura gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamakura or Cairns in the Spring?

Both Cairns and Kamakura are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kamakura in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Cairns for the beaches during these months.

In April, Kamakura is generally much colder than Cairnsin October. Daily temperatures in Kamakura average around 14°C (58°F), and Cairns fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. In April, Kamakura usually receives more rain than Cairnsin October. Kamakura gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Cairns is April to October. The rainy season in Cairns is November to March.

Typical Weather for Cairns and Kamakura