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

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a ritzy, glamourous, and high energy city. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise: 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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. 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 Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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 Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise is a perfect choice. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

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

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

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

With world-famous beaches, Surfers Paradise is a very popular vacation destination. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

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

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.


Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Surfers Paradise draws large crowds to its stores. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

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

Surfers Paradise has some public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

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 Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Surfers Paradise

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable national park. There are walking and bike paths around town.


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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.


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

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find museums and food around the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Surfers Paradise. 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and shopping around the spiritual national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the glamourous destination of Surfers Paradise. 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 Surfers Paradise?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Surfers Paradise. 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 city.


A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 city 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, Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise is $104. 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 Surfers Paradise in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise? 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 Surfers Paradise


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
    Surfers Paradise $11

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 Surfers Paradise

Also for Surfers Paradise, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to Brisbane/BNE Airport from Gold Coast/OOL Airport( 1-7 pax): $230
  • Private Transfer from Gold Coast Airport - Surfers Paradise: $50
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Airports to Surfers Paradise: $107
  • Private Transfer Brisbane Airport to Gold Coast 4-6 Passengers: $174
  • Luxury Private Transfer between Gold Coast Airport and Gold Coast city (1-7pax) : $90
  • Gold Coast Theme Parks: Shared Hotel Transfers: $14
  • Gold Coast Airport Transfers Corporate Chauffeurs Gold Coast: $120
  • All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise (Gold Coast Transfer): $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surfers Paradise?

Prices for flights to both Surfers Paradise 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
    Surfers Paradise $26

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 Surfers Paradise

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

  • Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Surfers Paradise $24

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Surfers Paradise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Surfers Paradise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Surf Lesson
    $78

Tours and Activities in Surfers Paradise

For Surfers Paradise, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Evening Rainforest & Glow Worm Experience - Small Group Tour: $73
  • 1.5hr Jetski Tour with island stopover - SELF DRIVE - NO LICENCE NEEDED: $198
  • 1hr JetSki Tour Gold Coast - No Licence Required - Self Drive - Surfers Paradise: $140
  • 2-Hour Farmers Market Tour with Kayak: $48
  • 2.5hrs Jetski Tour with island stopover / Self Drive / Surfers Paradise: $261
  • Barefoot Luxury Mount Tamborine Winery Tour from Gold Coast: $153
  • Body Massage Experience in Gold Coast : $98
  • Buffet Lunch Sightseeing Cruise: $59
  • Catch a Crab Tour with Optional Seafood Lunch: $53
  • Glow Worms - Nocturnal Rainforest/Waterfall Adventure: $79
  • Gold Coast - Hop On Hop Off Cruise - Sightseeing Day Pass: $30
  • Gold Coast 1.5-Hour Sightseeing River Cruise from Surfers Paradise: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Surfers Paradise $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Surfers Paradise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Surfers Paradise would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

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 Surfers Paradise Expensive?.