A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kamakura vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

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

Should I visit Kamakura or Surfers Paradise? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a quaint, charming, and laid back coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kamakura travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a active, ritzy, and glamourous city. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Kamakura and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise than Kamakura, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Surfers Paradise is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Kamakura is more popular for its historical sights. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Kamakura 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. Kamakura is well known for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Kamakura different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Kamakura and Surfers Paradise have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Kamakura offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Kamakura and Surfers Paradise can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kamakura makes for a great culinary experience. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

Kamakura has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Kamakura is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Surfers Paradise is a great 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.

Kamakura is not a resort destination.

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

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Surfers Paradise. 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.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Kamakura has an old town worth visiting. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Kamakura and Surfers Paradise both have notable trails.

Kamakura is a good destination for hiking. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Kamakura is a family-friendly coastal city. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Kamakura and Surfers Paradise make for a very good place to visit.

Kamakura is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Surfers Paradise makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit 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.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

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

Both Kamakura and Surfers Paradise offer notable public transit options.

Kamakura has a few public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

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

Is Kamakura or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Kamakura and Surfers Paradise both are notable when exploring on foot.

Kamakura is somewhat walkable. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Kamakura?

How long in Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

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

Families should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Kamakura. 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 Kamakura. 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 Kamakura 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Kamakura. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This coastal 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find shopping and museums around the laid back coastal city of Kamakura. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

Kamakura 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

Kamakura 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Kamakura and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Surfers Paradise is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Kamakura is in Asia and Surfers Paradise is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kamakura Expensive? and Is Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kamakura or Surfers Paradise?

Kamakura has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Kamakura 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 Kamakura 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 Kamakura has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Kamakura or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

Both Surfers Paradise and Kamakura during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kamakura often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Kamakura gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. Kamakura usually gets less rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Kamakura gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamakura or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kamakura and Surfers Paradise. Many visitors come to Kamakura in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Kamakura usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Kamakura gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kamakura usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Kamakura gets 177 mm (7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kamakura or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kamakura as well as Surfers Paradise. Most visitors come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kamakura is much colder than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kamakura in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the winter, Kamakura often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Kamakura gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Kamakura usually gets less rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Kamakura 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 Kamakura or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Kamakura are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Kamakura usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Kamakura gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Kamakura. In April, Kamakura usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Kamakura gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Kamakura