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

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

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 Picton, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Picton

Picton is a scenic, quaint, and relaxing town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and beaches.

Shiretoko National Park and Picton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Picton. Although Shiretoko National Park and Picton are popular destinations, Picton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Picton is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Shiretoko National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Picton is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. It is also well known for the Queen Charlotte Track. Shiretoko National Park is famous for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Picton. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. 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.


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

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Picton is an experience not to be missed. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

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 Picton Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a moderate town for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Picton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Picton Better for Beaches?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a well-known place for the beach. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Picton. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Picton Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Shiretoko National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Picton to go shopping. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Picton Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton 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.

Picton is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

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 Picton Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Shiretoko National Park and Picton are both great to visit as a couple.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

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

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Both Shiretoko National Park and Picton 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.

Picton is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

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

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

Picton has a few public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Public transit is quite limited 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.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Picton a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Picton

Picton is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its walkability.

Picton is a very walkable destination. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Picton or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Shiretoko National Park or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Shiretoko National Park than Picton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Picton 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 Picton.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Picton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Picton 1-2

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Shiretoko National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing town of Picton. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Shiretoko National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Picton is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Picton is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Picton. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Picton 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 Picton is $87. 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 Picton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $33
    Picton $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $66
    Picton $74
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Picton

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Picton? 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 Picton


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 and Picton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $26
    Picton -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Picton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Picton:

  • Private Transfer from Blenheim city hotels to Picton Cruise Port: $38
  • Private Transfer from Picton Cruise Port to Blenheim City Hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Blenheim Airport (BHE) to Picton Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Picton Port to Blenheim Airport (BHE): $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Picton?

Prices for flights to both Picton 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
    Picton $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Picton $109

Tours and Activities in Picton

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

  • Skip the Line: Dangerous Skies WWII Exhibition - Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: $15
  • Picton Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Hinterland Cycling Tour, Havelock: $25
  • Skip the Line:WWI & WWII Combo Exhibitions at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: $30
  • Winery Express Tour: $39
  • Queen Charlotte Track: Cruise & Self-Guided Hike from Picton: $52
  • Kayaking Mangrove Adventure at Havelock: $56
  • Marlborough Sounds and Ship Cove Cruise from Picton: $57
  • Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary and Ship Cove Cruise from Picton: $58
  • Half-Day Cruise in Marlborough Sounds from Picton: $58
  • Cruise Ship Day - Marlborough: $60
  • Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise from Picton: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $10
    Picton $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Picton

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Picton:

  • Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour (full day) in the Marlborough Region.: $37
  • Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Steve & Jo in Marlborough : $40
  • Marlborough: Hop On Hop Off Wine, Brewery, and Wonders Tour: $53
  • Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Marlborough: $54
  • Marlborough Afternoon Wine Tour with Tastings: $70
  • Half-Day Wine Tour from Blenheim: $87
  • Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton: $88
  • Discover Marlborough Wine - Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour : $90
  • Morning Guided with Afternoon Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour: $91
  • Marlborough Discovery Sampler Wine Tour - 1/2Day Blenheim: $97
  • Taste the Valley Wine Tour in Marlborough with Wine Tasting: $100
  • Half-Day Marlborough Wine Tour & Beer Tour : $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shiretoko National Park and Picton, we can see that Picton 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 Picton 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 Picton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Picton 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 Picton Expensive?.



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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Picton 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 Picton in the Summer?

Both Picton 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 Picton in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Shiretoko National Park is around the same temperature as Picton in the summer. The daily temperature in Shiretoko National Park averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

In July, Shiretoko National Park usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Shiretoko National Park gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F) 
    Picton 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Picton in the Autumn?

Both Picton 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 Picton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Shiretoko National Park is cooler than Picton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shiretoko National Park in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Picton averages at about 15°C (58°F)in April.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pictonin April. Shiretoko National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F) 
    Picton 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Picton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shiretoko National Park and Picton. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Picton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Shiretoko National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Shiretoko National Park is generally much colder than Pictonin July. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around -6°C (20°F), and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Picton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Shiretoko National Park usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Shiretoko National Park gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F) 
    Picton 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Picton in the Spring?

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

The weather in Shiretoko National Park can be very cold. Shiretoko National Park is much colder than Picton in the spring. The daily temperature in Shiretoko National Park averages around 5°C (40°F) in April, and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets less rain in April than Pictonin October. Shiretoko National Park gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F) 
    Picton 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Picton and Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park Picton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)