A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Katoomba vs. Coffs Harbour for Hiking, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

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 Katoomba and Coffs Harbour. 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.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a natural, relaxing, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a fun, nature-filled, and lively vacation town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Katoomba and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Coffs Harbour. Although Katoomba and Coffs Harbour are both popular with visitors, Coffs Harbour has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Coffs Harbour is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Katoomba is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Katoomba is popular for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains. Coffs Harbour is popular for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also home to the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

How is Katoomba different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Both Katoomba and Coffs Harbour have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Katoomba is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

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 Katoomba or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Coffs Harbour is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Coffs Harbour makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Coffs Harbour offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Katoomba is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Coffs Harbour to choose from. 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.

Katoomba is not a resort destination.

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

Coffs Harbour is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Coffs Harbour offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Katoomba visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Katoomba. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Both Katoomba and Coffs Harbour are fantastic family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Katoomba is very family-friendly. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

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.

Is Katoomba or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Katoomba and Coffs Harbour both very good destinations for a couple.

Katoomba is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

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.

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

Both Katoomba and Coffs Harbour are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

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.

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

Katoomba is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Katoomba has some public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

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 Katoomba or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

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

Katoomba is somewhat walkable. The town itself is relatively walkable.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable 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 Katoomba Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Katoomba?

How long in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Both Katoomba and Coffs Harbour have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour than in Katoomba. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Katoomba, and 3-7 days is enough time in Coffs Harbour.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Katoomba 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 Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Even though Katoomba is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

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.

A weekend in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

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

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.

Five days in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Katoomba is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

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.

A week in Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Katoomba is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Katoomba and Coffs Harbour, 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 Katoomba Expensive? and Is Coffs Harbour Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Katoomba and Coffs Harbour, 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 Katoomba or Coffs Harbour?

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 Katoomba or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

Both Coffs Harbour and Katoomba during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Katoomba for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Katoomba is around the same temperature as Coffs Harbour in the summer. The daily temperature in Katoomba averages around 24°C (74°F) in January, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Katoomba. In the summer, Katoomba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. Katoomba usually gets less rain in January than Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Katoomba or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Katoomba and Coffs Harbour. The autumn months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

In the autumn, Katoomba is around the same temperature as Coffs Harbour. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Katoomba in April average around 18°C (65°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. Katoomba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour during autumn. Katoomba gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Katoomba usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Katoomba or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Katoomba as well as Coffs Harbour. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Katoomba is generally cooler than Coffs Harbour. Daily temperatures in Katoomba average around 11°C (51°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Katoomba this time of the year. In the winter, Katoomba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun.

Katoomba usually gets less rain in July than Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Katoomba or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Katoomba are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Katoomba for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Katoomba is around the same temperature as Coffs Harbour in the spring. The daily temperature in Katoomba averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. Katoomba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour during spring. Katoomba gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. In October, Katoomba usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbour. Katoomba gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Katoomba