A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Coffs Harbour vs. Gili Trawangan for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a nature-filled, lively, and relaxing vacation town. Coffs Harbour is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Coffs Harbour travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a tropical, idyllic, and laidback island. Gili Trawangan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Coffs Harbour. Although Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan are popular destinations, Coffs Harbour has more sights and attractions for tourists. Coffs Harbour is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Gili Trawangan attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Coffs Harbour and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. Coffs Harbour is famous for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana". It is also well known for the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

How is Coffs Harbour different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Gili Trawangan and Coffs Harbour. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

Coffs Harbour is very good for its museums and history. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Coffs Harbour offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

Gili Trawangan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Is the Food Better in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Coffs Harbour. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Gili Trawangan. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is very popular for nightlife. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Gili Trawangan is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

The people in Coffs Harbour know how to have a good time. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Coffs Harbour. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Gili Trawangan has a few great resort options. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gili Trawangan is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its diving and snorkeling.

Gili Trawangan is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Coffs Harbour. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

Both Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Coffs Harbour is considered to be a world-class beach destination. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Gili Trawangan offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Coffs Harbour. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

Coffs Harbour is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Coffs Harbour is well-known for its shopping. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Gili Trawangan has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan More Beautiful?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Gili Trawangan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its beautiful coastline and nice mountain landscapes, there is plenty of beauty to explore. There are also nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries where you can immerse yourself in the natural environment.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Coffs Harbour is one of the most popular family destinations. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

Gili Trawangan is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

Both Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Coffs Harbour makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Couples visit Gili Trawangan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gili Trawangan is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Gili Trawangan. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

Coffs Harbour is a great vacation town to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gili Trawangan is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

Gili Trawangan has some public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Public transit is generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Gili Trawangan is very walkable. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable vacation town. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Coffs Harbour Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Coffs Harbour?

How long in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Coffs Harbour due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Coffs Harbour, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

Families should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Gili Trawangan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Coffs Harbour, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Coffs Harbour 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 Gili Trawangan.

One day in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the idyllic destination of Gili Trawangan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gili Trawangan. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Coffs Harbour. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Gili Trawangan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Coffs Harbour or Gili Trawangan?

In Coffs Harbour, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful island of Gili Trawangan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Coffs Harbour and Gili Trawangan, we can see that Coffs Harbour is more expensive. And not only is Gili Trawangan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Coffs Harbour is in Pacific and Gili Trawangan is in Asia, 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 Gili Trawangan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gili Trawangan 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 Coffs Harbour would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Coffs Harbour than you might in Gili Trawangan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Coffs Harbour Expensive? and Is Gili Trawangan Expensive?.