A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Okinawa vs. Alice Springs for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Okinawa or Alice Springs?

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 Okinawa and Alice Springs. 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.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a charming, friendly, and laid back town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Okinawa and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Alice Springs are popular destinations, Okinawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Okinawa is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Alice Springs attracts visitors for its small town charm. Okinawa is famous for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also well known for the Kerama Islands. Alice Springs is famous for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Okinawa different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its historical sights. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Okinawa. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Alice Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Is the Food Better in Okinawa or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Okinawa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its evening party scene. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Okinawa has something for everybody. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its luxury resorts. However, Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

In Okinawa, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Okinawa is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Okinawa is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Okinawa and Alice Springs, and they are fantastic.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

People visit Alice Springs specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Both Okinawa and Alice Springs are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Alice Springs. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an extremely popular archipelago to visit for families. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Alice Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Okinawa is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alice Springs is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alice Springs is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

While Okinawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Okinawa or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Alice Springs is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable archipelago. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Okinawa or Alice Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Okinawa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alice Springs.

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

Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Alice Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Okinawa than Alice Springs 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 Okinawa.

One day in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the tropical destination of Okinawa. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Alice Springs is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alice Springs has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Okinawa. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful archipelago of Okinawa. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Since Alice Springs is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Okinawa and Alice Springs, we can see that Okinawa 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. Even though Okinawa is in Asia and Alice Springs is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Alice Springs?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Alice Springs. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Alice Springs, 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.