A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Torquay vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Torquay or Gold Coast?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Gold Coast, 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 laid back, hip, and thriving surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a fun-filled, glamourous, and vibrant coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Torquay and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Torquay or Gold Coast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gold Coast. Although Torquay and Gold Coast are both popular with visitors, Gold Coast has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gold Coast is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Torquay is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Torquay different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Gold Coast is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Gold Coast can be an interesting and educational experience. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

Is the Food Better in Torquay or Gold Coast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

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 Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Gold Coast is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Torquay is not a resort destination.

Gold Coast offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Torquay is not a resort destination.

Is Torquay or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors go to Gold Coast to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Torquay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Torquay or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Both Torquay and Gold Coast have fantastic 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.

Gold Coast is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Is Torquay or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Torquay and Gold Coast are both places where visitors can find very good 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.

Gold Coast is a popular spot for hiking. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Gold Coast?

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

Gold Coast is well-known for its shopping. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

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 Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast is an amazing family-friendly coastline to visit. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

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

Gold Coast has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

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 Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Gold Coast is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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 Gold Coast Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gold Coast is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its public transit.

Gold Coast has some very good public transit options. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

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

Is Torquay or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Torquay is a great surf town for its ease of walking around. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its walkability.

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

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Gold Coast?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Torquay or Gold Coast?

With museums and nightlife around the casual surf town of Torquay, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Gold Coast, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastline 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 Gold Coast?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Torquay, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this surf town.

In Gold Coast, 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. 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 Gold Coast?

Torquay, a popular surf town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Gold Coast?

Torquay is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gold Coast. In Gold Coast, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 comparing the travel costs between Torquay and Gold Coast, we can see that Gold Coast is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Torquay or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Torquay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Torquay is around the same temperature as Gold Coast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Torquay in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Torquay. In January, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coast. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Torquay or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

Both Gold Coast and Torquay during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In April, Torquay is generally around the same temperature as Gold Coast. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 22°C (72°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Torquay usually gets less rain in April than Gold Coast. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Torquay or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Gold Coast. The winter months attract visitors to Torquay because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

Torquay is around the same temperature as Gold Coast in the winter. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In July, Torquay usually receives less rain than Gold Coast. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Torquay or Gold Coast in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Gold Coast. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Gold Coast for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Torquay is around the same temperature as Gold Coast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Torquay in October average around 21°C (71°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 21°C (69°F).

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Torquay usually gets less rain in October than Gold Coast. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Torquay