A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Byron Bay for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spiritual, spectacular, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a vegan-friendly, carefree, and Bohemian town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Byron Bay than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Byron Bay is better known for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Byron Bay is well known for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. Also, Byron Bay is famous for Cape Byron Lighthouse.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Byron Bay and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a national park with good options for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Byron Bay is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Byron Bay has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Byron Bay is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Byron Bay is a very popular vacation destination. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Byron Bay offers some nice hiking trails. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Byron Bay is well-known for its shopping. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly national park. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Byron Bay is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Byron Bay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay are notable when it comes to walkability.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable national park. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Byron Bay. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Byron Bay. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Byron Bay.


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Byron Bay 3-7

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

You'll find shopping and museums around the national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Byron Bay. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the Bohemian destination of Byron Bay. It offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the other-worldly national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Byron Bay. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Byron Bay is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Byron Bay or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $152, while the average daily cost in Byron Bay is $140. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Byron Bay $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Byron Bay $134
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Byron Bay


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: Byron Bay Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Byron Bay $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $114

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Byron Bay

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Byron Bay:

  • Byron Bay Tandem Skydive with Transfer Options: $268

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Byron Bay?

Prices for flights to both Byron Bay and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $47
    Byron Bay $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $131
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $191
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta Experience with BBQ Dinner: $205
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $237

Typical Food Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of dining costs in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    $59

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Byron Bay $36

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $13
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $60
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $65
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $67
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $105
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $142
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $142
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $237

Typical Entertainment Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    $124
  • Surf Lesson
    $42

Tours and Activities in Byron Bay

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

  • 3-Hour Small-Group Byron Bay Tour: $66
  • Beyond Byron Hinterland Tour: $133
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $45
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $46
  • Brunswick River: Byron Sunset Eco Rainforest River Cruise: $62
  • Byron Bay Dolphin Tour - Ocean Safari: $63
  • Byron Bay Half-Day Tour: $65
  • Byron Bay Hinterland Tour Including Rainforest Walk to Minyon Falls: $113
  • Byron Bay Hinterland: National Park and Waterfalls Tour: $111
  • Byron Bay Lighthouse and Hinterland Tour: $66
  • Byron Bay Local Tour: $210
  • Byron Bay and Beyond Tour Including Cape Bryon Lighthouse Crystal Castle and Bangalow: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Byron Bay $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Byron Bay

Also in Byron Bay, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour: $98
  • Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session : $100
  • Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch: $128
  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour: $130


When comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Byron Bay, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Byron Bay Expensive?.


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