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

Should you visit Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Surfers Paradise 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a rural, historic, and cultural town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Nikko and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Surfers Paradise is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Nikko is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Nikko and is known 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. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Nikko different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nikko is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nikko and Surfers Paradise offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Surfers Paradise. 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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Surfers Paradise is a world class 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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

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

Surfers Paradise is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Surfers Paradise is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Surfers Paradise. 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Nikko is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Nikko is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Surfers Paradise. 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.

Nikko is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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

Nikko 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 Nikko can get you to most places easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Nikko 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.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

Families should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Nikko. 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 Nikko than Surfers Paradise. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nikko that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Nikko 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 Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Surfers Paradise, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Surfers Paradise. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Nikko 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.

Surfers Paradise is a fun place to experience. In Surfers Paradise, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Nikko 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 museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Surfers Paradise, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this high energy destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Nikko 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 Nikko 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 Nikko Expensive? and Is Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko 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 Nikko 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 Nikko has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Nikko or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Surfers Paradise. Most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nikko usually receives around the same amount of rain as Surfers Paradisein January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Surfers Paradise. The autumn months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

Nikko is cooler than Surfers Paradise in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Surfers Paradisein April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. In the winter, Nikko is much colder than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nikko in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradise during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Nikko during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Nikko is generally much colder than Surfers Paradisein October. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 13°C (55°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 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 Nikko. Nikko usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Surfers Paradisein October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Nikko