A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a other-worldly, spiritual, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a high energy, fun-filled, and glamourous coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gold Coast: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gold Coast. Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and is known for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Gold Coast specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gold Coast can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Gold Coast is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Gold Coast is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Gold Coast is a perfect choice. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Gold Coast. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

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

With world-famous beaches, Gold Coast is a very popular vacation 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.

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

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast 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.

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 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 Gold Coast Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Gold Coast is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gold Coast are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

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.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Gold Coast can get you around easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

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 Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Gold Coast

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gold Coast are good 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.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 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 Gold Coast.

Families should spend more time in Gold Coast than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 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 Gold Coast.


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

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

With museums and food around the spectacular national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Gold Coast. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Gold Coast?

With food and shopping around the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of Gold Coast. 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 Gold Coast?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), a popular national park, 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Gold Coast. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastline.


A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.

Gold Coast is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 coastline 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, Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast is $99. 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 Gold Coast in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Gold Coast $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Gold Coast $110
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gold Coast

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast? 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 Gold Coast


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.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Gold Coast $23

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 Gold Coast

Also for Gold Coast, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • TOP Luxury Transfer from Gold Coast or OOL Airport to Brisbane or BNE Airport: $192
  • Private Gold Coast Airport Arrival Transfer to Byron Bay: $140
  • Private Airport Transfer to South Gold Coast from Gold Coast Airport (OOL) 1-4px: $67
  • Private Airport Transfer to North Gold Coast from Gold Coast Airport (OOL) 1-4px: $71
  • Private Airport Transfer to Gold Coast Airport (OOL) from South Gold Coast 1-4px: $67
  • Private Airport Transfer to Gold Coast Airport (OOL) from North Gold Coast 1-4px: $71
  • Private Airport Transfer to Brisbane Airport (BNE) from South Gold Coast 1-4 pax: $148
  • Private Airport Transfer to Brisbane Airport (BNE) from North Gold Coast 1-4 pax: $121
  • Movie World To Brisbane Hotel One Way Transfer: $27
  • Limousine Transfer from/to Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to/from Hotel: $118
  • Theme Park Transfer: $30
  • Tangalooma Snorkel the Wrecks Cruise Transfers: $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gold Coast?

Prices for flights to both Gold Coast 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
    Gold Coast $27

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Gold Coast

For Gold Coast, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show: $72
  • Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Gold Coast $19

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

Tours and Activities in Gold Coast

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

  • Whale Watching Australia Experience (3hours): $80
  • 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!: $187
  • 2 Hours Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour on the Broadwater: $51
  • 2.5 hr Jet Ski Safaris tour - Ultimate Adventure + island stop: $268
  • 2.5-Hour Ultimate Learn to Surf Adventure: $44
  • 2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour: $53
  • 3-Day Ticket: Dreamworld with WhiteWaterWorld & SkyPoint: $98
  • 30min Jet Ski Tour in Surfers Paradise: $81
  • Afternoon Broadwater Sailing Cruise: $60
  • Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour: $33
  • Arro Jet Boating Experience, Surfers Paradise Gold Coast: $42
  • Australia Day Cruise with Spirit of Gold Coast: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Gold Coast $5.23

Sample the Local Flavors in Gold Coast

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Gold Coast:

  • Sirromet Winery Tour and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Tamborine Mountain: Wine Tasting Tour with 2-Course Lunch: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Wine Tour in Mt Tamborine From Gold Coast : $134


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

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 Gold Coast Expensive?.


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