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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise 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. Similan Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Surfers Paradise has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Similan Islands specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Both Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise are considered to be first-rate beach destinations.

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.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise offers some nice hiking trails. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Surfers Paradise draws large crowds to its stores. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Similan Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Similan Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Surfers Paradise is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise has some public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail 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 Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Both Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Surfers Paradise has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Surfers Paradise than Similan Islands. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the remote destination of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The ritzy destination of Surfers Paradise offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the spectacular island chain of Similan Islands. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The city of Surfers Paradise offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Similan Islands is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

The active city of Surfers Paradise offers museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Surfers Paradise, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Surfers Paradise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Similan Islands is in Asia and Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

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 Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

Both Surfers Paradise 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, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise 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. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

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

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein April. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Surfers Paradisein April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Surfers Paradise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Surfers Paradise during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Surfers Paradise. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradisein October. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in April than Surfers Paradisein October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 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 Surfers Paradise and Similan Islands