A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Coffs Harbour for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lombok 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 Lombok 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.

Lombok

Lombok is a peaceful, laid back, and cultural island. Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Lombok travel costs.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a relaxing, fun, and nature-filled vacation town. Coffs Harbour is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Coffs Harbour travel costs.

Lombok and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Both Coffs Harbour and Lombok have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty, while Coffs Harbour attracts visitors for its nightlife. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Coffs Harbour is famous for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana".

How is Lombok different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lombok and Coffs Harbour.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Coffs Harbour. 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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lombok and Coffs Harbour both to be very good destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Dining out in Coffs Harbour is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Coffs Harbour for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

There are very good resorts to choose from in both Lombok and Coffs Harbour.

There are plenty of resorts in Lombok to choose from. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Coffs Harbour is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

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

Lombok is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its diving and snorkeling.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

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.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Lombok and Coffs Harbour both offer fantastic beaches.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Coffs Harbour. 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.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Coffs Harbour, and they are very good.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Coffs Harbour is a popular spot for hiking. 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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Coffs Harbour both offer plenty of very good spots.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Coffs Harbour. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour More Beautiful?

Lombok is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its beautiful coastline and nice mountain landscapes, there is plenty of beauty to explore. There are also nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries where you can immerse yourself in the natural environment.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Coffs Harbour is very family-friendly. 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.

Lombok is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Is Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Lombok is very popular for romance. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Couples visit Coffs Harbour frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lombok. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Coffs Harbour is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lombok and Coffs Harbour both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Lombok is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable island. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

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

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Both Lombok 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 Lombok than in Coffs Harbour. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 3-7 days is enough time in Coffs Harbour.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Coffs Harbour 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the peaceful destination of Lombok. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Coffs Harbour. 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 Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the peaceful destination of Lombok. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Lombok. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nature-filled destination of Coffs Harbour. This vacation town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Coffs Harbour, we can see that Coffs Harbour is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lombok is in Asia and Coffs Harbour is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Lombok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lombok 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 Coffs Harbour would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Coffs Harbour than you might in Lombok.

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Lombok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Coffs Harbour. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin January. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 26°C (79°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin January. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Coffs Harbour. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

Lombok is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok usually gets less rain in October than Coffs Harbourin April. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Lombok or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

Both Coffs Harbour and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lombok is much warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lombok in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. Lombok usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Coffs Harbourin July. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Lombok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin October. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in April than Coffs Harbourin October. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Lombok