A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yokohama vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Surfers Paradise, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a under-rated, laid-back, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a glamourous, high energy, and thrilling city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Yokohama and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise than Yokohama, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Surfers Paradise is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Yokohama is more popular for its big city activities. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Also, Surfers Paradise is famous for the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Yokohama is well known for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Yokohama different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Surfers Paradise and Yokohama. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Both Yokohama and Surfers Paradise have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yokohama can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Surfers Paradise. 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.

Is the Food Better in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yokohama and Surfers Paradise.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Surfers Paradise has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Surfers Paradise is a must-see party destination. 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.

Many people head to Yokohama for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for its resorts. However, Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Surfers Paradise offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Surfers Paradise to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for its beaches. However, Yokohama is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Surfers Paradise are among the best in the world. 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.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Surfers Paradise has hiking trails worth exploring. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Surfers Paradise is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Yokohama and Surfers Paradise are both amazing destinations for the whole family.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Surfers Paradise are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Surfers Paradise is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Surfers Paradise is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise Better for Students?

Yokohama is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

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

Yokohama is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Yokohama can get you to most places easily. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

You'll find some public transit in Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Yokohama or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Yokohama is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Yokohama is a very walkable destination. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Both Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

Families should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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.

One day in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Yokohama because there is so much to do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Surfers Paradise offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Yokohama because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Yokohama is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Surfers Paradise is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Surfers Paradise, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Yokohama is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Surfers Paradise has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yokohama and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Yokohama is more expensive. And not only is Surfers Paradise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Yokohama is in Asia and Surfers Paradise is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Yokohama would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yokohama 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 Yokohama Expensive? and Is Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Surfers Paradise, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Surfers Paradise is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Yokohama has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Surfers Paradise. The summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

In July, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Surfers Paradisein January. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 25°C (78°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the summer, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yokohama usually gets less rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Yokohama is cooler than Surfers Paradise in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In October, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Yokohama during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Yokohama is much colder than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yokohama in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Yokohama usually gets less rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Surfers Paradise. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches during these months.

In April, Yokohama is generally cooler than Surfers Paradisein October. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 14°C (58°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Yokohama