A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Matsue vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Matsue and Surfers Paradise can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Matsue

Matsue is a historic, quiet, and peaceful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Matsue and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Matsue and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Matsue is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Matsue and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Matsue is popular for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere.

How is Matsue different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Matsue and Surfers Paradise.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

Is the Food Better in Matsue or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Matsue and Surfers Paradise can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Matsue. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Surfers Paradise has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Surfers Paradise is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Matsue is not a resort destination.

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Matsue is not a resort destination.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Matsue is not a beach destination.

Surfers Paradise is considered to be a world-class beach destination. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Matsue has an old town worth visiting. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Surfers Paradise make it a world-class shopping destination. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Matsue has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Surfers Paradise is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Matsue is a good town for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Surfers Paradise. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of backpackers visit Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Matsue is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Matsue can get you to most places easily. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

You'll find some public transit in Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Matsue or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Matsue is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Matsue is a very walkable destination. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Matsue Worth Visiting? and Is Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Matsue?

How long in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Matsue. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Surfers Paradise that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Matsue 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find museums and food around the pretty destination of Matsue. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Surfers Paradise. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and shopping around the quiet town of Matsue. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. 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 Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Matsue is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Surfers Paradise. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Matsue is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy destination of Surfers Paradise. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Matsue and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Surfers Paradise is more expensive. And not only is Matsue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Matsue is in Asia and Surfers Paradise 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 Matsue would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Matsue 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 Surfers Paradise would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Surfers Paradise than you might in Matsue.

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

Which is Bigger, Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

Matsue has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Matsue and Surfers Paradise, 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 Matsue or Surfers Paradise?

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

Should I visit Matsue or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Matsue as well as Surfers Paradise. Most visitors come to Matsue for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Matsue is around the same temperature as Surfers Paradise. Typically, the summer temperatures in Matsue in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Matsue this time of the year. In the summer, Matsue often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Matsue gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Matsue receives a lot of rain in the summer. Matsue usually gets more rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Matsue gets 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Matsue or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise and Matsue are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Matsue because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

In October, Matsue is generally cooler than Surfers Paradisein April. Daily temperatures in Matsue average around 17°C (62°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Matsue usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Matsue gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Matsue. In October, Matsue usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Matsue gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Matsue or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Matsue during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Matsue this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Matsue in the winter. Matsue is much colder than Surfers Paradise in the winter. The daily temperature in Matsue averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Matsue often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Matsue gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. Matsue usually gets more rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Matsue gets 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Matsue or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Matsue and Surfers Paradise. Many travelers come to Matsue for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Matsue is much colder than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the spring temperatures in Matsue in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Matsue usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Matsue gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Matsue usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Matsue gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Matsue