A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Surfers Paradise vs. Auckland for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Surfers Paradise or Auckland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a ritzy, glamourous, and high energy city. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Surfers Paradise and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland. Although Surfers Paradise and Auckland are both popular with visitors, Auckland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Auckland is more popular for its big city activities, while Surfers Paradise is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Auckland and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower.

How is Surfers Paradise different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auckland and Surfers Paradise. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Auckland and Surfers Paradise.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Surfers Paradise can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Surfers Paradise and Auckland.

Surfers Paradise has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Auckland makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Surfers Paradise is a world class party destination. 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.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Surfers Paradise is a perfect choice. 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.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Surfers Paradise. 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.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

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 Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise and Auckland are both places where visitors can find good hiking trails.

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

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Auckland. 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 Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Surfers Paradise is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Couples?

Surfers Paradise and Auckland are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Surfers Paradise makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Surfers Paradise and Auckland.

Surfers Paradise has some public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Surfers Paradise or Auckland a more walkable city?

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

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

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 Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Surfers Paradise?

How long in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Auckland 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 Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

The city of Surfers Paradise offers museums and nightlife. 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.

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Surfers Paradise is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

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

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, 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 Surfers Paradise and Auckland, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Surfers Paradise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland 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 Surfers Paradise Expensive? and Is Auckland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Surfers Paradise and Auckland, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Surfers Paradise are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Surfers Paradise is generally a little warmer than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Surfers Paradise average around 25°C (77°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Auckland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. Surfers Paradise usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auckland during summer. Surfers Paradise gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. In January, Surfers Paradise usually receives more rain than Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Surfers Paradise during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

Surfers Paradise is a little warmer than Auckland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Surfers Paradise averages around 22°C (71°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. In the autumn, Surfers Paradise often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 214 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 Surfers Paradise. Surfers Paradise usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Surfers Paradise and Auckland. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Surfers Paradise is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Surfers Paradise in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. Surfers Paradise usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Surfers Paradise gets 226 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 July, Surfers Paradise usually receives less rain than Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Surfers Paradise as well as Auckland. Many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Auckland in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In October, Surfers Paradise is generally a little warmer than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Surfers Paradise average around 21°C (69°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. In the spring, Surfers Paradise often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Surfers Paradise usually gets more rain in October than Auckland. Surfers Paradise gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Surfers Paradise