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

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

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 Torquay 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. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Torquay

Torquay is a thriving, outdoorsy, and trendy surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Torquay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Torquay than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Torquay is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and small town charm, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Also, Torquay is famous for Bells Beach.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay.

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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

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 Torquay Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is great for its luxury resorts. However, Torquay is not a resort destination.

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.

Torquay is not a resort destination.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

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

With world-famous beaches, Torquay is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is renowned for hiking. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Torquay is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. 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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for couples.

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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 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.

Torquay is a good national park 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Torquay 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.

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

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 Torquay a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

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

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

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than in Torquay. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-3 days is enough time in Torquay.

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


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Torquay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Torquay 2-3

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

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find museums and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Torquay. 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 Torquay?

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find food and shopping. 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 hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Torquay. It offers something for everyone. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have a weekend, this surf town makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this surf town.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the destination of Torquay. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Torquay is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people visit for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay 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 $151, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $86. 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 Torquay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Torquay $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Torquay $78
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay

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


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) $74
    Torquay $39

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: $112

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

Prices for flights to both Torquay 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) $46
    Torquay $25

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: $129
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $188
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $202
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $241

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Torquay $11

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: $15
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $233
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $110
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $146
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $66
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $69
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $65
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $146

Tours and Activities in Torquay

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

  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $73
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $93
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $93
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $92
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $119
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $82

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Torquay $7.42


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Torquay, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 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 Torquay.

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 Torquay Expensive?.


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