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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong 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.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Wollongong travel costs.

Similan Islands and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Wollongong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wollongong. Although Similan Islands and Wollongong are both popular with visitors, Wollongong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wollongong is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Wollongong is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong has a huge number of terrific restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

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 Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

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

Wollongong has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Similan Islands a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Wollongong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Similan Islands. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Is Similan Islands or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Wollongong 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.

Wollongong offers some nice hiking trails. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Wollongong?

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Wollongong. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Wollongong More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wollongong is not a destination known for its 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.

Wollongong is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Similan Islands or Wollongong Better for Families?

Wollongong 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, Wollongong is very family-friendly. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

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 Wollongong Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Similan Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Wollongong is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

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 Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Wollongong is an excellent place 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 Wollongong can get you to some places easily. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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 Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Similan Islands or Wollongong. 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 Wollongong.

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

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

One day in Similan Islands or Wollongong?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the idyllic island chain of Similan Islands, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The vibrant destination of Wollongong offers nightlife and food. 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 Wollongong?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Similan Islands, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The coastal city of Wollongong offers food 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 Wollongong?

Similan Islands, a popular island chain, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island chain. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wollongong 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 Wollongong?

Similan Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island chain makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island chain has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wollongong. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Australia, and The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia.

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

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 Wollongong Expensive?.

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Wollongong. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wollongong in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the summer temperatures in Similan Islands in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Wollongong averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Wollongongin January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 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 Wollongong in the Autumn?

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

In October, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Wollongongin April. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (81°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongongin April. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Wollongongin April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 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 Wollongong in the Winter?

Both Wollongong 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 winter months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Wollongong in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Wollongongin July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Wollongong in the Spring?

Both Wollongong 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, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

In the spring, Similan Islands is much warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Wollongong averages at about 17°C (63°F)in October.

In Wollongong, 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 Wollongongin October. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 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 Wollongongin October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 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 Wollongong and Similan Islands