A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Alice Springs for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Alice Springs 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a idyllic, remote, and spectacular island chain. Many visitors also come to Similan Islands because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a friendly, laid back, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Alice Springs is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Alice Springs travel costs.

Similan Islands and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alice Springs. Although Similan Islands and Alice Springs are both popular with visitors, Alice Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Alice Springs is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Alice Springs is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. It is also home to Alice Springs Desert Park. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Alice Springs is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Alice Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Similan Islands and Alice Springs can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Similan Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Alice Springs area. 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 Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Alice Springs is a town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Beaches?

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

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs is an amazing town to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Alice Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Similan Islands offers some nice hiking trails. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

Alice Springs is a town with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Similan Islands because of it's amazing beauty. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

Alice Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with beautiful landscapes and dramatic views.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Alice Springs is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Alice Springs is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

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

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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 Similan Islands or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alice Springs is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Alice Springs. 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Similan Islands and Alice Springs.

Public transit is mostly limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

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 Similan Islands or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Similan Islands and Alice Springs are good when it comes to walkability.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable place. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

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

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

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

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

One day in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. Most people come for the beaches. 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. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Similan Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island chain 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the beautiful island chain of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Since Alice Springs is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia.

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

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