A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Noosa Heads vs. Wollongong for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong 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 charming, laid back, and relaxed coastal town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Noosa Heads and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wollongong. Although Noosa Heads and Wollongong are both popular with visitors, Wollongong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wollongong is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Noosa Heads is known for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Noosa Heads is more touristy than Wollongong and is known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture. Wollongong is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Noosa Heads different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Wollongong is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Noosa Heads is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

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.


Is the Food Better in Noosa Heads or Wollongong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Both Noosa Heads and Wollongong offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Noosa Heads has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Wollongong is an experience not to be missed. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Wollongong is a great coastal city for nightlife and partying. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Wollongong has something for everybody. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Noosa Heads is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Noosa Heads. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.


Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Noosa Heads is great for hiking. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Noosa Heads for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

If you're looking to go shopping, Noosa Heads and Wollongong both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Noosa Heads. 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.

Many visitors go to Wollongong to go shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Families?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Both Noosa Heads and Wollongong are excellent 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).

Wollongong is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.


Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Couples?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Both Noosa Heads and Wollongong are excellent 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Noosa Heads is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Noosa Heads. 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.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Students?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Noosa Heads is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Noosa Heads is not popular with students.


Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Wollongong is a great coastal city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

Public transit in Wollongong can get you to some places easily. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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.

Is Noosa Heads or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Noosa Heads
Wollongong

Noosa Heads and Wollongong are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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.

Wollongong is a very walkable destination. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

For even more information, also check out Is Noosa Heads Worth Visiting? and Is Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Noosa Heads?

How long in Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Noosa Heads or Wollongong. In our opinion, Wollongong has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Wollongong than Noosa Heads. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Noosa Heads than Wollongong 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 Wollongong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Noosa Heads 2-4 
    Wollongong 2-4

One day in Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Noosa Heads might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant coastal city of Wollongong. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Wollongong?

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 offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the trendy destination of Wollongong. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city 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 Wollongong?

Noosa Heads, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The student-friendly coastal city of Wollongong offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Noosa Heads is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wollongong. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 G Adventures Tours to Australia, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Sydney.


Which place is cheaper, Wollongong 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 Wollongong is $121. 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 Wollongong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Noosa Heads $58
    Wollongong $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Noosa Heads $116
    Wollongong $130
Compare Hotels in Noosa Heads and Wollongong

Looking for a hotel in Noosa Heads or Wollongong? 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 Wollongong


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 Wollongong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Noosa Heads $17
    Wollongong $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Noosa Heads

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

  • Premium Airport/ Cruise Terminal Transfers: $238
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Hotels 11 pax: $221
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (8pax): $131
  • Private Transfer from Noosa to Sunshine Coast Airport up to 5 pax: $124
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (6pax): $117
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa up to 3 pax: $104
  • Private Transfer from Noosa to Sunshine Coast Airport up to 3 pax: $104
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (4pax): $101
  • Private Morning Transfer From Noosa to Rainbow Beach: $82
  • Australia Zoo Transfer from Noosa, Coolum, Marcoola & Twin Waters: $73
  • Brisbane Airport Departure shuttle Transfer from Sunshine Coast Hotels/addresses: $51
  • Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer from Noosa, Noosaville & Mooloolaba: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Prices for flights to both Wollongong 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 $34
    Wollongong $31

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: $121

Typical Food Prices in Wollongong

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Wollongong:


  • Lunch
    $7.82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Noosa Heads $40
    Wollongong $22
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)
    $85
  • 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
  • 2-Hour Guided Whale Watching Tour at Noosa: $53
  • Adventure Rafting - Mooloolaba Turtle Tour: $46
  • Aquaduck Sunshine Coast - 1hr Mooloolaba Amphibious Tour: $30
  • Australia Zoo, Glass House Mountains Tour Combo: $187
  • Birdwatching and Wildlife Noosa Biosphere Full-Day Experience: $124
  • Brisbane Airport and Cruise Terminal to Sunshine Coast 11 pax: $265
  • Bushtucker Cruise: $50
  • Epic Kayak With Dolphins & Wildlife - 4WD Beach Adventure Noosa: $108
  • Everglades Explorer - Noosa Everglades Tour: $93
  • Glass House Mountains Tour with Lunch, Lookouts, and Nature Walks: $167
  • Maleny Botanic Gardens Bird Aviary Experience Ticket: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Noosa Heads $10
    Wollongong $18

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: $94
  • Sunshine Coast Brewery Tour with Lunch: $164
  • Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour - with 2 course lunch included: $168
  • Sunshine Coast & Noosa Scenic Food & Wine Tour Inc. Lunch: $185
  • Noosa Hinterland Drinks Tour- visit 2 distilleries, a winery and a brewery : $198
  • Noosa Hinterland Drinks Private Tour with Gin, Beer, Mead & Wine Tastings: $268


When comparing the travel costs between Noosa Heads and Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong 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 Wollongong Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Noosa Heads. When comparing the sizes of Noosa Heads and Wollongong, 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 Noosa Heads or Wollongong?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Noosa Heads or Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong and Noosa Heads are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Noosa Heads for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Noosa Heads is cooler than Wollongong. Typically, the summer temperatures in Noosa Heads in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Wollongong averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite rainy in Noosa Heads. In January, Noosa Heads usually receives more rain than Wollongong. Noosa Heads gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Noosa Heads 20°C (67°F) 
    Wollongong 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Noosa Heads or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong and Noosa Heads during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Noosa Heads in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wollongong for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In April, Noosa Heads is generally cooler than Wollongong. Daily temperatures in Noosa Heads average around 14°C (58°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Noosa Heads usually gets less rain in April than Wollongong. Noosa Heads gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Noosa Heads 14°C (58°F) 
    Wollongong 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Noosa Heads or Wollongong in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Noosa Heads and Wollongong. Most visitors come to Noosa Heads for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Noosa Heads is much colder than Wollongong in the winter. The daily temperature in Noosa Heads averages around 7°C (44°F) in July, and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In July, Noosa Heads usually receives more rain than Wollongong. Noosa Heads gets 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Noosa Heads 7°C (44°F) 
    Wollongong 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Noosa Heads or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Noosa Heads as well as Wollongong. The spring months attract visitors to Noosa Heads because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

In the spring, Noosa Heads is cooler than Wollongong. Typically, the spring temperatures in Noosa Heads in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Wollongong averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Noosa Heads usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Wollongong. Noosa Heads gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Noosa Heads 14°C (57°F) 
    Wollongong 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads Wollongong
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (67°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 19°C (67°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 18°C (64°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 8°C (46°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Jul 7°C (44°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 11°C (51°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 14°C (57°F) 76 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 19°C (66°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)