A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tauranga vs. Airlie Beach for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

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

Should I visit Tauranga or Airlie Beach? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-filled town. Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Tauranga travel costs.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a idyllic, paradise, and laid back town. You'll find world class beauty in Airlie Beach as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Airlie Beach travel costs.

Tauranga and Airlie Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Airlie Beach than Tauranga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Airlie Beach is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tauranga is more popular for its museums and attractions. Tauranga is well known for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails. Airlie Beach is well known for its tours and transportation that visit the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. Also, Airlie Beach is famous for the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

How is Tauranga different from Airlie Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Tauranga is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Airlie Beach is not a good town for its museums and history.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Airlie Beach. Oceanfront beauty is what this town is all about, so you won't find much is the form of museums and manmade landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tauranga or Airlie Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Foodies will find both Tauranga and Airlie Beach both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tauranga area. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Airlie Beach. There's a good selection of restaurants in town that offer everything from freshly caught local seafood to fine dining or casual. Try to pick a place with a view.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Nightlife?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Both Tauranga and Airlie Beach are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Airlie Beach. The town has a number of nightlife venues that include DJ hosted parties, beachfront cocktail lounges, and mellow local bars.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Resorts?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Tauranga is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Airlie Beach is a great choice. There's everything from posh resorts and luxury hotels to family-friendly campgrounds. There are also hostels that cater to the budget crowd.

Tauranga is not a resort destination.


Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Airlie Beach a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. You can't snorkel right off the shore because the water is murky and mucky, but there are excursions that will take you to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many day cruises that will take you out on the reef to several sights where you may see beautiful coral, sea turtles, or even reef sharks.

Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Beaches?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Airlie Beach. Near town there are world class beaches that range from secluded and idyllic to those lined with luxury resorts. For an escape, head to Hideaway Bay or Dingo Beach. If you don't want to leave town, there's also Airlie Beach, which is right off the Main Street. You likely won't want to swim here, but you can enjoy a picnic. Whatever beach you chose, do confirm that there's a stinger net.

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Hiking?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Airlie Beach specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find many incredible hiking trails in the area. Conway National Park is a great place to hike through the rainforest and Conway State Forest is another nice spot.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tauranga. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.


Is the Shopping Better in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Both Tauranga and Airlie Beach are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Tauranga to go shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Airlie Beach. Head to the town's main street for your typical souvenir shops and holiday stores.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach More Beautiful?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Airlie Beach as well. Serving as a gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, this town is surrounded by some of the world's most idyllic landscapes.

Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Families?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Tauranga is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Airlie Beach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tauranga is very family-friendly. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Airlie Beach is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy playing in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, visiting the markets, or hanging out at the local beaches or playgrounds. If you're hoping to swim in the ocean, be very aware of the season and the conditions.


Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Couples?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Airlie Beach makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples often use this as a gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. The dining scene is good and there are countless outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. There are also many different resorts in the area.

Tauranga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Tauranga is very popular for backpackers. Also, Airlie Beach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tauranga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Many backpackers visit Airlie Beach. If you're hoping to visit the Whitsunday Islands, then is a good place to base yourself as a backpacker. It has a decent selection of hostels and there are a number of restaurants and other dining options.

Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Both Tauranga and Airlie Beach offer notable public transit options.

Tauranga has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Airlie Beach has some public transit options. There's a public bus that runs from Proserpine to Shute Harbour. The main bus station is near the city center and the main beach.


Is Tauranga or Airlie Beach a more walkable city?

Tauranga
Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Airlie Beach is a very walkable destination. The town itself is walkable, but the surrounding area is hilly and requires a car.

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tauranga Worth Visiting? and Is Airlie Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Airlie Beach or Tauranga?

How long in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Both Tauranga and Airlie Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Airlie Beach than in Tauranga. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tauranga, and 4-7 days is enough time in Airlie Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tauranga than Airlie Beach 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 Tauranga.


  • How many days in Tauranga or Airlie Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tauranga 2-3 
    Airlie Beach 4-7

One day in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

In Tauranga, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Airlie Beach offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Tauranga is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Airlie Beach 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.


Five days in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Tauranga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

A week in Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Tauranga is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Airlie Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Airlie Beach has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Airlie Beach or Tauranga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tauranga is $119, while the average daily cost in Airlie Beach is $167. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tauranga and Airlie Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tauranga $75
    Airlie Beach $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tauranga $150
    Airlie Beach $118
Compare Hotels in Tauranga and Airlie Beach

Looking for a hotel in Tauranga or Airlie Beach? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tauranga


Hotels in Airlie Beach


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tauranga Hotel Prices and Airlie Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tauranga $6.80
    Airlie Beach $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Airlie Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Airlie Beach:

  • Whitsunday: Prosperpine Airport to Airlie Beach Transfer: $16
  • Transfer from Whitsunday Coast Airport: $17
  • One Way Only - Airport Transfer share shuttle service: $17
  • Transfer To Whitsunday Coast Airport: $17
  • Airport Transfers - Return (round fare) share shuttle service: $28
  • Return Transfer PPP Airport Shute Harbour / Renta Yacht / Freedom Shores: $32
  • South Molle Island Camping Transfer: $59
  • South Molle Island Camping Transfer: $61
  • Roundtrip KIA Transfer from Whitsunday Coast Airport: $230
  • Private Transfer to Whitsunday Coast Airport: $316

Is it cheaper to fly into Tauranga or Airlie Beach?

Prices for flights to both Airlie Beach and Tauranga change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tauranga $37
    Airlie Beach $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Airlie Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Airlie Beach.

  • 3-Hour Sunset Segway Tour with Dinner: $82
  • Whitsundays Segway Sunset and Boardwalk Tour with Dinner: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tauranga $10
    Airlie Beach $163

Tours and Activities in Tauranga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Tauranga are as follows:

  • Tauranga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Explore Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Mount Maunganui Harbour Sightseeing Cruise: $24
  • Tauranga Harbour Scenic One Hour Historical Boat Cruise : $25
  • Waimarino Adventure Park Supreme Pass Entry Ticket: $29
  • Waimarino Adventure Park: $30
  • 2hr Tauranga City Scenic History Tour: $34
  • Tauranga Harbour Cruise: $45
  • 2-Hour City Sightseeing Tour - Tauranga City & Scenic Lookout: $48
  • 4hr Shore Excursion - History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting: $58
  • 4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting: $58
  • Tauranga Shore Excursion: Small-Group Bay of Plenty and Tauranga Tour: $59

Tours and Activities in Airlie Beach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Airlie Beach are as follows:

  • Private Airlie Beach Tuk-Tuk Tours: $20
  • Cedar Creek Express. (cruise ship friendly): $40
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise with Sparkling Wine: $45
  • Whisper Cruises - One-Hour Turtle Spotting Bay Cruise: $46
  • Airlie Beach Sunset Cruise : $46
  • Airlie Beach Trike Tours: $50
  • Whitsundays Sunset Sailing Cruise: $57
  • Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: $59
  • Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tour: $60
  • Half Day Turtle Tour Sea Kayaking Adventure: $65
  • Whisper Cruises Turtle Spotting Sunset Cruise - Electric Boat: $65
  • Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Guided Night Tour: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tauranga $10
    Airlie Beach $9.17


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tauranga Expensive? and Is Airlie Beach Expensive?.