A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Torquay vs. Coffs Harbour for Beaches, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Coffs Harbour, 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.

Torquay

Torquay is a trendy, casual, and laid back surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a relaxing, fun, and nature-filled vacation town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Torquay and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Coffs Harbour. Although Torquay and Coffs Harbour are popular destinations, Coffs Harbour has more sights and attractions for tourists. Coffs Harbour is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Torquay attracts visitors for its small town charm. Coffs Harbour is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also well known for the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Torquay is famous for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Torquay different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Torquay and Coffs Harbour.

Torquay offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Coffs Harbour. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Is the Food Better in Torquay or Coffs Harbour? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Coffs Harbour is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Coffs Harbour has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Coffs Harbour for the nightlife scene. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is great for its luxury resorts. However, Torquay is not a resort destination.

Coffs Harbour is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Torquay is not a resort destination.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Coffs Harbour to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Both Torquay and Coffs Harbour have first-rate beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Torquay and Coffs Harbour are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Coffs Harbour is a popular spot for hiking. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Coffs Harbour is well-known for its shopping. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is an amazing family-friendly vacation town to visit. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Torquay and Coffs Harbour are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Torquay is a great surf town if you're traveling as a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Coffs Harbour is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Coffs Harbour. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Torquay is a good surf town to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay is a surf town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Torquay has some public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Torquay or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Torquay is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Torquay is very walkable. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable surf town. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Torquay 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 Coffs Harbour.

One day in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Torquay. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This vacation town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the hip destination of Torquay. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This surf town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Coffs Harbour has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

You'll find food and shopping around the surf town of Torquay. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. In Coffs Harbour, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay and Coffs Harbour, 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 Torquay or Coffs Harbour?

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 Torquay or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Coffs Harbour. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Torquay is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 26°C (78°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the summer. Torquay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Torquay usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbour. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Torquay or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Coffs Harbour. Many travelers come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Torquay is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour in the autumn. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite rainy in Coffs Harbour. Torquay usually gets less rain in April than Coffs Harbour. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Torquay or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

Both Coffs Harbour and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Torquay in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Coffs Harbour for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Torquay is a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the winter temperatures in Torquay in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In July, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Coffs Harbour. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Torquay or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Torquay during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In October, Torquay is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbour. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 21°C (71°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Torquay usually gets less rain in October than Coffs Harbour. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Torquay