A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Rockhampton for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Lombok or Rockhampton?

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 Rockhampton. 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. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Lombok travel costs.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a traditional, charming, and cultural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Rockhampton travel costs.

Lombok and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Rockhampton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Rockhampton are both popular with visitors, Lombok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lombok is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Rockhampton is known for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Lombok is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also home to Mount Rinjani. Rockhampton is popular for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks.

How is Lombok different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Rockhampton is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rockhampton. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. 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.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Rockhampton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lombok and Rockhampton both to be superb 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 Rockhampton is an experience not to be missed. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Lombok and Rockhampton.

If you're looking for night time activities Lombok has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rockhampton. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Resorts?

Lombok is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

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

Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rockhampton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Rockhampton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lombok. 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.

Many people head to Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Rockhampton, and they are superb.

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.

Rockhampton is a popular spot for hiking. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Rockhampton?

Lombok is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lombok. 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.

Rockhampton is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton More Beautiful?

Lombok is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Rockhampton is not a destination known for its 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.

Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Rockhampton are superb family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. 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.

Rockhampton is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Lombok is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lombok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Rockhampton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lombok, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Rockhampton is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lombok is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Lombok is not popular with students.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lombok and Rockhampton both offer decent 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 Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Lombok or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Rockhampton is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Rockhampton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Lombok or Rockhampton. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lombok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rockhampton.

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

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back island of Lombok. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Lombok. 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.

Rockhampton 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.

Five days in Lombok or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural island of Lombok. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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

A week in Lombok or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lombok. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Rockhampton. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lombok is around the same temperature as Rockhampton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lombok in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

Rockhampton receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Rockhamptonin January. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Rockhampton. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Rockhamptonin April. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Lombok or Rockhampton in the Winter?

Both Rockhampton 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, most visitors come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lombok is much warmer than Rockhampton in the winter. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in July.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin July. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Rockhampton in the Spring?

Both Rockhampton 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, the spring months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Lombok is a little warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lombok in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in October.

Lombok usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 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 Rockhampton and Lombok