A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Brisbane for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Similan Islands or Brisbane?

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 Brisbane 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 because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a active, relaxed, and diverse coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Similan Islands and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Brisbane?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brisbane. Although Similan Islands and Brisbane are both popular with visitors, Brisbane has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brisbane is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Brisbane is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. It is also home to the Cultural Centre. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brisbane 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 Brisbane. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Similan Islands and Brisbane 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 Brisbane area. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Similan Islands or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

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

Brisbane has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

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 Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Brisbane has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Is Similan Islands or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for the beach. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

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 Brisbane. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Is Similan Islands or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Brisbane are destinations which offer good hiking.

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

Brisbane offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Brisbane?

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

Brisbane is well-known for its shopping. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Brisbane Better for Families?

Brisbane 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, Brisbane is very family-friendly. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

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 Brisbane Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

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

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

Many backpackers visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

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 Brisbane Better for Students?

Brisbane 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 Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

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

Brisbane has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to 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 Brisbane a more walkable city?

Brisbane is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Brisbane is a very walkable coastal city. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Brisbane?

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

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

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

One day in Similan Islands or Brisbane?

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.

The relaxed destination of Brisbane offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Brisbane?

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.

The coastal city of Brisbane offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Brisbane?

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.

Brisbane is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal 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 Brisbane?

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 Brisbane. 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

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 Brisbane Expensive?.

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

Brisbane 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 Brisbane in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Brisbane. Typically, the summer temperatures in Similan Islands in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Brisbane averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Brisbane during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Brisbanein January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Brisbane in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Brisbane. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Similan Islands is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein April. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (81°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein April. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Brisbanein April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Brisbane in the Winter?

Both Brisbane and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Brisbane in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Brisbane fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Brisbane during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Brisbanein July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Brisbane in the Spring?

Both Brisbane and Similan Islands during the spring 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, many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Brisbane averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbanein October. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in April than Brisbanein October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Similan Islands