A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Surfers Paradise vs. Melbourne for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Surfers Paradise or Melbourne, 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 active, ritzy, and glamourous city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive 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. See Melbourne travel costs.

Surfers Paradise and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

Both Melbourne and Surfers Paradise have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Melbourne is known for its big city activities. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Melbourne is popular for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

How is Surfers Paradise different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Melbourne 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 Melbourne. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

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

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, Melbourne makes for a great culinary experience. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Surfers Paradise is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Melbourne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Surfers Paradise is a great 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.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

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

Surfers Paradise is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for the beach. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Surfers Paradise. 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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Surfers Paradise is a good destination for hiking. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Melbourne 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 Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Melbourne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Surfers Paradise is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne Better for Students?

Melbourne is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a great destination for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

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

Melbourne is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Melbourne can get you to most places easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

You'll find some public transit in Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Surfers Paradise or Melbourne a more walkable city?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Melbourne is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Surfers Paradise?

How long in Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

In either Surfers Paradise or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Melbourne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Surfers Paradise, and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

Families should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne. 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Surfers Paradise. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Melbourne 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 Melbourne?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the glamourous destination of Surfers Paradise. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Melbourne 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 Melbourne?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ritzy city of Surfers Paradise. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Melbourne 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.

A week in Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

Surfers Paradise is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Surfers Paradise, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Melbourne 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Surfers Paradise and Melbourne, we can see that Melbourne 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne 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 Melbourne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Surfers Paradise or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Surfers Paradise and Melbourne, 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 Melbourne?

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 Melbourne in the Summer?

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

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

It's quite sunny in Melbourne. 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 Melbourne during summer. Surfers Paradise gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. In January, Surfers Paradise usually receives more rain than Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Melbourne in the Autumn?

Both Melbourne and Surfers Paradise during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Surfers Paradise is a little warmer than Melbourne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Surfers Paradise averages around 22°C (71°F) in April, and Melbourne fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. In the autumn, Surfers Paradise often gets more sunshine than Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. Surfers Paradise usually gets more rain in April than Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Melbourne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Surfers Paradise and Melbourne. The winter months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year.

In the winter, Surfers Paradise is much warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Surfers Paradise in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Melbourne averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. Surfers Paradise usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during winter. Surfers Paradise gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Surfers Paradise usually receives more rain than Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Surfers Paradise or Melbourne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Surfers Paradise as well as Melbourne. The beaches are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Melbourne for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In October, Surfers Paradise is generally a little warmer than Melbourne. Daily temperatures in Surfers Paradise average around 21°C (69°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. 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 Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Surfers Paradise usually gets more rain in October than Melbourne. Surfers Paradise gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Surfers Paradise