A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Noosa Heads vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a natural, charming, and laid back coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a remote, rugged, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Noosa Heads than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Noosa Heads is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Noosa Heads is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture. Also, Noosa Heads is famous for Noosa Main Beach. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Noosa Heads different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Noosa Heads. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a moderate coastal town for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Noosa Heads offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Noosa Heads. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Noosa Heads. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is very popular for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Noosa Heads are among the best in the world. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Noosa Heads is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Noosa Heads offers some nice shopping areas. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Noosa Heads is very family-friendly. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).

Mount Aspiring National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.


Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Noosa Heads is a great coastal town if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Mount Aspiring National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Noosa Heads is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.

Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Noosa Heads has a few public transit options. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Noosa Heads
Mount Aspiring National Park

Noosa Heads is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Noosa Heads is a very walkable coastal town. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable coastal town. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Noosa Heads Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Noosa Heads?

How long in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Noosa Heads because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Noosa Heads, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Couples should spend more time in Noosa Heads than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Noosa Heads that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Noosa Heads than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Noosa Heads.


  • How many days in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Noosa Heads 2-4 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Even though Noosa Heads is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

A weekend in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Noosa Heads. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Noosa Heads has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Noosa Heads is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Noosa Heads is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. One week 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Noosa Heads?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Noosa Heads is $110, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Noosa Heads $58
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Noosa Heads $116
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Noosa Heads


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Noosa Heads Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Noosa Heads $17
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Noosa Heads

Also for Noosa Heads, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sunshine Coast Airport Departure Transfer from Hotels: $18
  • Sunshine Coast and Noosa Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer: $32
  • Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer from Noosa, Noosaville & Mooloolaba: $32
  • Brisbane Airport Departure shuttle Transfer from Sunshine Coast Hotels/addresses: $55
  • Australia Zoo Transfer from Noosa, Coolum, Marcoola & Twin Waters: $79
  • Private Morning Transfer From Noosa to Rainbow Beach: $89
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (4pax): $99
  • Private Transfer from Noosa to Sunshine Coast Airport up to 3 pax: $102
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (6pax): $116
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (8pax): $129
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Hotels 11 pax: $218
  • Premium Airport/ Cruise Terminal Transfers: $234

Is it cheaper to fly into Noosa Heads or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Noosa Heads change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Noosa Heads $33
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Noosa Heads

For Noosa Heads, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Classes on Witta Maleny Sunshine Coast: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Noosa Heads $40
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Noosa Heads

For Noosa Heads, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Surf Lesson
    $42
  • Sea Kayak Tour (for 2)
    $84
  • Sunset Cruise (for 2)
    $13

Tours and Activities in Noosa Heads

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Noosa Heads.

  • 2 Hours Sunset Experience on Noosa River: $21
  • The Original 1-Hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise: $23
  • Maleny Botanic Gardens Bird Aviary Experience Ticket: $28
  • Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba: $30
  • River Cruise on Historical Vessel: $32
  • Aquaduck Sunshine Coast - 1hr Mooloolaba Amphibious Tour: $33
  • 1 Hour Self Guided Water Bike Tour of the Noosa River: $33
  • Seafood Lunch Cruise: $43
  • River to River, Land and Sea E-bike Tour in Brisbane: $46
  • Bushtucker Cruise: $50
  • Sunset Tour with Live Music: $50
  • Noosa Oceanrider - Adventure Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Noosa Heads $10
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09

Sample the Local Flavors in Noosa Heads

Also in Noosa Heads, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Eumundi Market and Distillery Experience Market Days Wednesday & Saturday: $92
  • Sunshine Coast Brewery Tour with Lunch: $162
  • Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour - with 2 course lunch included: $165
  • Sunshine Coast & Noosa Scenic Food & Wine Tour Inc. Lunch: $182
  • Noosa Hinterland Tour with Gourmet Lunch, Wine Tasting & Everglades Lake: $191
  • Noosa Hinterland Drinks Tour- visit 2 distilleries, a winery and a brewery : $195
  • Noosa Hinterland Drinks Private Tour with Gin, Beer, Mead & Wine Tastings: $277


When comparing the travel costs between Noosa Heads and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.