A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Auckland for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Similan Islands or Auckland?

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 Auckland 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 spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Similan Islands and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Auckland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Auckland than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Auckland is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Auckland has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

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 Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Similan Islands is not to be missed. 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.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Similan Islands is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Auckland are destinations which offer notable hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Auckland offers some nice hiking trails. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Auckland?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland Better for Families?

Auckland 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, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

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 Auckland Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Similan Islands 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.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

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 Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Auckland is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is Similan Islands or Auckland a more walkable city?

Similan Islands is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Similan Islands and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than in Auckland. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

Couples should spend more time in Similan Islands than Auckland. 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 Auckland 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 Auckland.

One day in Similan Islands or Auckland?

The beautiful island chain of Similan Islands offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Auckland?

Similan Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Auckland?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Similan Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Auckland?

Similan Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Similan Islands has to offer. This island chain offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Auckland, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Auckland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Similan Islands is in Asia and Auckland 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 Auckland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auckland 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 Auckland.

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 Auckland Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Auckland?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Similan Islands experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Similan Islands is a little warmer than Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Auckland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Auckland during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Aucklandin January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Similan Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin April. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Aucklandin April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Aucklandin July. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Auckland. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin October. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in April than Aucklandin October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Similan Islands