A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Coffs Harbour for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Coffs Harbour 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a tranquil, relaxing, and peaceful town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a relaxing, fun, and nature-filled vacation town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nikko and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Coffs Harbour. Although Nikko 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 nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Nikko is known for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nikko is popular for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. 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 Nikko different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nikko is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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

Both Nikko and Coffs Harbour offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Coffs Harbour. 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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

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

Coffs Harbour is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is very popular for its historic old town. However, Coffs Harbour does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a world-famous historical area. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Coffs Harbour does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Coffs Harbour are destinations which offer great hiking.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is an extremely popular vacation town to visit for families. 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.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

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

Nikko is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nikko and Coffs Harbour are great places to visit.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Coffs Harbour is a great town 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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Nikko is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 3-7 days is enough time in Coffs Harbour.

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

One day in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Coffs Harbour, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this nature-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This vacation town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the museums, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 fun place to experience. In Coffs Harbour, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

In Coffs Harbour, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nikko and Coffs Harbour, we can see that Coffs Harbour is more expensive. And not only is Nikko much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nikko 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 Nikko would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nikko 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 Nikko.

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko 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 Nikko or Coffs Harbour?

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

Should I visit Nikko or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Coffs Harbour. The summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Coffs Harbour in the summer. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun in the summer.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nikko usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Coffs Harbour. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nikko is cooler than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nikko in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 20°C (67°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nikko usually gets less rain in October than Coffs Harbourin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

Both Coffs Harbour and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In January, Nikko is generally much colder than Coffs Harbourin July. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 3°C (37°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbour during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Nikko during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Nikko is cooler than Coffs Harbour in the spring. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 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 Nikko. Nikko usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Coffs Harbourin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Nikko