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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Sydney?

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 Sydney 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food.

Sydney

Sydney is a diverse, energetic, and outdoorsy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Similan Islands and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Sydney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney. Although Similan Islands and Sydney are both popular with visitors, Sydney has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sydney is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Sydney is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Sydney are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sydney 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.

Sydney has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

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 Sydney Better for Nightlife?

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

Sydney has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

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 Sydney Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Sydney. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

Is Similan Islands or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Both Similan Islands and Sydney 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.

Sydney offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Is Similan Islands or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Sydney is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

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 Sydney?

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

Known for shopping, Sydney draws large crowds to its stores. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney 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.

Sydney is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

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 Sydney Better for Couples?

Both Similan Islands and Sydney are first-rate destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Sydney is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

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

Sydney 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, Sydney is extremely popular for backpackers. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage 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 Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Sydney is a very popular city for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Sydney is top-notch. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

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 Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney 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.

Sydney is a very walkable city. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less 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 Sydney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Sydney?

Both Similan Islands and Sydney have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sydney 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 Sydney.

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

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

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

One day in Similan Islands or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Similan Islands. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sydney 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 Sydney?

Similan Islands is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sydney is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sydney is a big city with plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

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 Sydney Expensive?.

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

Sydney 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 Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney and Similan Islands during the summer 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 summer months attract visitors to Sydney because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Similan Islands in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Sydney averages at about 23°C (73°F)in January.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Sydneyin January. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 236 hours of full sun.

Sydney 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 July than Sydneyin January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Sydney in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Sydney. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

In October, Similan Islands is generally a little warmer than Sydneyin April. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (81°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sydney during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Sydneyin April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Sydney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Sydney. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Sydney in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Sydney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Sydneyin July. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Sydneyin July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Sydney in the Spring?

Both Sydney and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Similan Islands is much warmer than Sydney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Sydney averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Sydney. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sydney during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Sydneyin October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Similan Islands