A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Torquay vs. Fraser Island for Beaches, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Torquay or Fraser Island?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Fraser Island, 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 casual, laid back, and hip surf town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a breathtaking, idyllic, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Torquay and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • 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
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Torquay or Fraser Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Torquay than Fraser Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Torquay is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Fraser Island is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Also, Torquay is famous for Bells Beach. Fraser Island is well known for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

How is Torquay different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.


Is the Food Better in Torquay or Fraser Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Torquay. 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.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its evening party scene.

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.

Fraser Island doesn't offer many options. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Both Torquay and Fraser Island have world-class 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.

Fraser Island is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay and Fraser Island are both places where visitors can find great 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.

Fraser Island is a popular spot for hiking. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Fraser Island?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Torquay offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fraser Island is very family-friendly. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

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 Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for couples.

Fraser Island has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

Torquay is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Torquay or Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

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 Fraser Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Is Torquay or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Torquay
Fraser Island

Torquay is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

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

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable surf town. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Fraser Island?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Torquay than Fraser Island 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 Torquay.


  • How many days in Torquay or Fraser Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Torquay 2-3 
    Fraser Island 3-5

One day in Torquay or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the casual 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 Fraser Island, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island 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 Fraser Island?

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 Fraser Island, you'll find . 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 Fraser Island?

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.

Fraser Island is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fraser Island has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Fraser Island?

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 Fraser Island. Many people enjoy the when visiting Fraser Island. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Fraser Island or Torquay?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Torquay is $86, while the average daily cost in Fraser Island is $206. 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 Torquay and Fraser Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Torquay $39
    Fraser Island $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Torquay $78
    Fraser Island $204
Compare Hotels in Torquay and Fraser Island

Looking for a hotel in Torquay or Fraser Island? 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 Torquay


Hotels in Fraser Island


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Torquay $39
    Fraser Island $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Torquay or Fraser Island?

Prices for flights to both Fraser Island and Torquay 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
    Torquay $25
    Fraser Island $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Torquay $11
    Fraser Island $44

Tours and Activities in Torquay

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Torquay.

  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $73
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $82
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $92
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $92
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $94
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $119

Tours and Activities in Fraser Island

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

  • 2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise: $52
  • Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise: $71
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $97
  • Hervey Bay: Best Value Half Day Whale Watching Cruise : $78
  • Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour: $108
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour: $178
  • Remote Fraser Island Experience: $163
  • Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience: $163

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Torquay $7.42
    Fraser Island $20


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



When is the best time to visit Torquay or Fraser Island?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Torquay or Fraser Island in the Summer?

Both Fraser Island and Torquay during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Torquay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fraser Island in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Torquay is around the same temperature as Fraser Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Fraser Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. Torquay usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Fraser Island. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Torquay 26°C (78°F) 
    Fraser Island 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Fraser Island. Many visitors come to Torquay in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Torquay is around the same temperature as Fraser Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Torquay in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In April, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Fraser Island. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Torquay 22°C (72°F) 
    Fraser Island 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Fraser Island in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Fraser Island. Most visitors come to Torquay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Fraser Island because of the cuisine.

In July, Torquay is generally around the same temperature as Fraser Island. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 15°C (59°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Torquay usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Fraser Island. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Torquay 15°C (59°F) 
    Fraser Island 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Fraser Island in the Spring?

Both Fraser Island and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Torquay because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fraser Island this time of year.

Torquay is around the same temperature as Fraser Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 21°C (71°F) in October, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

In October, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Fraser Island. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Torquay 21°C (71°F) 
    Fraser Island 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Torquay

Torquay Fraser Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)