A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Perth vs. Byron Bay for Beaches, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Perth or Byron Bay?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Perth and Byron Bay can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a easy-going, isolated, and sunny city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a vegan-friendly, carefree, and Bohemian town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Perth and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Perth or Byron Bay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Byron Bay. Although Perth and Byron Bay are popular destinations, Byron Bay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Byron Bay is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its museums. Byron Bay is more touristy than Perth and is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. It is also well known for Cape Byron Lighthouse. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Perth or Byron Bay?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Perth. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.


Is the Food Better in Perth or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Perth
Byron Bay

Both Perth and Byron Bay offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Byron Bay. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Byron Bay for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for its luxury resorts. However, Perth is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Byron Bay. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Perth is not a resort destination.


Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth and Byron Bay are amazing choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Perth is a very popular vacation destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

The beaches in Byron Bay are among the best in the world. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is very good for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Byron Bay. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Byron Bay?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for shopping. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.


Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Perth is a very kid-friendly city. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly city. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Byron Bay is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Perth
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Byron Bay is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.


Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Students?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth is a city with good options for students. However, Byron Bay is not popular with students.

Perth is a good city to visit for students. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Byron Bay is not popular with students.

Is Perth or Byron Bay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Perth or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Perth
Byron Bay

Perth and Byron Bay are nice when it comes to walkability.

Perth is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Perth?

How long in Perth or Byron Bay?

Both Perth and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Perth. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay than Perth 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 Byron Bay.


  • How many days in Perth or Byron Bay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Perth 2-4 
    Byron Bay 3-7

One day in Perth or Byron Bay?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Perth. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxed destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This 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 Perth or Byron Bay?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Perth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Byron Bay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Perth or Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Perth. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Byron Bay is a fun place to experience. In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife 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 Perth or Byron Bay?

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this Bohemian 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Byron Bay or Perth?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Perth is $130, while the average daily cost in Byron Bay is $139. 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 Perth and Byron Bay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Perth $75
    Byron Bay $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Perth $150
    Byron Bay $132
Compare Hotels in Perth and Byron Bay

Looking for a hotel in Perth or Byron Bay? 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 Perth


Hotels in Byron Bay


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: Perth Hotel Prices and Byron Bay Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Perth $25
    Byron Bay $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

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

  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $33
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $33
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Private Transfer from Perth City Hotels to Fremantle Cruise Port : $33
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $59
  • Perth Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Perth city: $67
  • Departure Private Transfer: Perth City to Perth Airport PER in Business Car: $76
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $163
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $219

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Byron Bay

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Byron Bay:

  • Byron Bay Tandem Skydive with Transfer Options: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Perth or Byron Bay?

Prices for flights to both Byron Bay and Perth 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
    Perth $36
    Byron Bay $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Perth

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

  • Hands on Cooking Class or Cooking Workshop Experience: $69
  • American BBQ Food Tour: $78
  • Half-Day Low and Slow BBQ Food Tour in Perth: $79
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise with Beverages: $111
  • Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise: $112
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $114
  • Pinnacles Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Experience a Small Group Tour: $116
  • Pinnacle Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $140
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $159

Typical Food Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of dining costs in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Perth $14
    Byron Bay $35

Tours and Activities in Perth

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $3.74
  • Perth Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Perth Bell Tower Entry Ticket and Bell Chiming Experience: $12
  • Skip the Line: Perth Video Game Console Museum Ticket: $12
  • Perth Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • The Perth Mint Gold Tour: $16
  • Fabulous Fremantle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Female trailblazers: self-guided women's history tour of Perth: $17
  • Optus Stadium Guided Tour: $18
  • The Optus Stadium Tour: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    $123
  • Surf Lesson
    $42

Tours and Activities in Byron Bay

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Byron Bay are as follows:

  • 3-Hour Small-Group Byron Bay Tour: $66
  • Beyond Byron Hinterland Tour: $132
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $45
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $46
  • Brunswick River: Byron Sunset Eco Rainforest River Cruise: $62
  • Byron Bay Half-Day Tour: $65
  • Byron Bay Hinterland Tour Including Rainforest Walk to Minyon Falls: $112
  • Byron Bay Hinterland: National Park and Waterfalls Tour: $110
  • Byron Bay Lighthouse and Hinterland Tour: $66
  • Byron Bay and Beyond Tour Including Cape Bryon Lighthouse Crystal Castle and Bangalow: $125
  • Brunswick Heads Sunset Rainforest Eco-Cruise: $63
  • Brunswick River Scenic Kayak Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Perth $7.41
    Byron Bay $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Little Creatures Brewery Tours : $17
  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $62
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $62
  • Half Day Swan Valley Wine Tour: $63
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $66
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $75
  • Small-Group Gin Distillery Tour in Perth: $89
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $91
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $108
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $108
  • VIP Swan Valley Wine Tour - Premium Small Group Wine Tour: $131

Sample the Local Flavors in Byron Bay

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

  • Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour: $97
  • Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session : $99
  • Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch: $127
  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour: $129


When comparing the travel costs between Perth and Byron Bay, we can see that Byron Bay 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 Perth Expensive? and Is Byron Bay Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Perth or Byron Bay?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Byron Bay. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Byron Bay, 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 Perth or Byron Bay?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Perth or Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay and Perth during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Perth is around the same temperature as Byron Bay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Perth in January average around 25°C (76°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 23°C (74°F).

Byron Bay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Perth usually gets less rain in January than Byron Bay. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Perth 25°C (76°F) 
    Byron Bay 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Perth or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Byron Bay. Many visitors come to Perth in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Byron Bay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In April, Perth is generally around the same temperature as Byron Bay. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 19°C (67°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F).

Byron Bay receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Perth usually receives less rain than Byron Bay. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Perth 19°C (67°F) 
    Byron Bay 20°C (69°F)

Should I visit Perth or Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Perth as well as Byron Bay. Most visitors come to Perth for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Perth is around the same temperature as Byron Bay in the winter. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Perth receives a lot of rain in the winter. Perth usually gets more rain in July than Byron Bay. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Perth 13°C (55°F) 
    Byron Bay 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Perth or Byron Bay in the Spring?

Both Byron Bay and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

In the spring, Perth is cooler than Byron Bay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Perth in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In October, Perth usually receives less rain than Byron Bay. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Perth 17°C (62°F) 
    Byron Bay 19°C (67°F)

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Perth

Perth Byron Bay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Feb 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 24°C (74°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Mar 23°C (73°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 19°C (67°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 201 mm (7.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 13°C (56°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 15°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 32 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 19°C (67°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)