A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Fraser Island for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a idyllic, stunning, and serene island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fraser Island. Although Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island are both popular with visitors, Fraser Island has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fraser Island is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Shiretoko National Park is known for its hiking. Fraser Island is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to the pinnacles. Shiretoko National Park is popular for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Neither Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island offer quality museums and landmarks.

Shiretoko National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.


Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a moderate island for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is not a good place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Fraser Island for the nightlife. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a moderate island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Shiretoko National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Fraser Island are among the best in the world. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Shiretoko National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Fraser Island is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Shiretoko National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Fraser Island is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for romance.

Fraser Island has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Both Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island are great destinations for backpackers.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine for backpackers and budget travelers. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Fraser Island is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Neither Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Public transit is quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Fraser Island

Shiretoko National Park is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Shiretoko National Park is a somewhat walkable place. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

In either Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fraser Island than Shiretoko National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fraser Island.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fraser Island than Shiretoko National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fraser Island that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fraser Island than Shiretoko 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 Fraser Island.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Fraser Island 3-5

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

You'll find around the serene island of Fraser Island. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Fraser Island is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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.

Fraser Island is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

You'll find around the beautiful remote,natural,scenic,pristine of Shiretoko National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fraser Island. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Fraser Island or Shiretoko National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $74, while the average daily cost in Fraser Island is $206. 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 Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $33
    Fraser Island $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $66
    Fraser Island $204
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island? 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 Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Fraser Island


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: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $26
    Fraser Island $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

Prices for flights to both Fraser Island and Shiretoko National Park 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
    Shiretoko National Park $25
    Fraser Island $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Fraser Island $44

Tours and Activities in Fraser Island

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Fraser Island are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise: $52
  • Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise: $72
  • Hervey Bay: Best Value Half Day Whale Watching Cruise : $79
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $98
  • Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour: $109
  • Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience: $164
  • Remote Fraser Island Experience: $164
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour: $180
  • K'gari/2-Day Tagalong Tour from Hervey Bay: $340

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $10
    Fraser Island $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island, we can see that Fraser Island is more expensive. And not only is Shiretoko National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shiretoko National Park is in Asia and Fraser Island 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 Shiretoko National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shiretoko National Park 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 Fraser Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fraser Island than you might in Shiretoko National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shiretoko National Park Expensive? and Is Fraser Island Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island?

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

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island in the Summer?

Both Fraser Island and Shiretoko National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shiretoko National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Fraser Island in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shiretoko National Park is generally cooler than Fraser Islandin January. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 18°C (64°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fraser Island. In July, Shiretoko National Park usually receives less rain than Fraser Islandin January. Shiretoko National Park gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F) 
    Fraser Island 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

Both Fraser Island and Shiretoko National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shiretoko National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Shiretoko National Park is much colder than Fraser Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shiretoko National Park averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets less rain in October than Fraser Islandin April. Shiretoko National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F) 
    Fraser Island 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shiretoko National Park and Fraser Island. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Fraser Island because of the cuisine.

Shiretoko National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shiretoko National Park is much colder than Fraser Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shiretoko National Park in January average around -6°C (20°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Shiretoko National Park usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin July. Shiretoko National Park gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F) 
    Fraser Island 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Fraser Island in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shiretoko National Park as well as Fraser Island. The spring months attract visitors to Shiretoko National Park because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fraser Island this time of year.

The weather in Shiretoko National Park can be very cold. In April, Shiretoko National Park is generally much colder than Fraser Islandin October. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 5°C (40°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

Shiretoko National Park usually gets less rain in April than Fraser Islandin October. Shiretoko National Park gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F) 
    Fraser Island 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park Fraser Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)