A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Okinawa for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ao Nang or Okinawa?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Okinawa? 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.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a accessible, popular, and beachfront town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ao Nang and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Okinawa. Although Ao Nang and Okinawa are popular destinations, Okinawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ao Nang is famous for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Okinawa is famous for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also well known for the Kerama Islands.

How is Ao Nang different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Okinawa is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Okinawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Okinawa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Ao Nang and Okinawa.

Ao Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Okinawa is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang and Okinawa offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Ao Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Okinawa. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Okinawa a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Okinawa. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Many people head to Ao Nang to enjoy the beach. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Ao Nang and Okinawa.

Ao Nang has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Okinawa is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Okinawa is a very family-friendly destination. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Okinawa makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ao Nang is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Ao Nang and Okinawa.

Ao Nang has some public transit options. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

You'll find some public transit in Okinawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Is Ao Nang or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable town. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Both Ao Nang and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Ao Nang. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

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

Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Ao Nang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

In Ao Nang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Okinawa, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

In Ao Nang, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ao Nang has to offer.

In Okinawa, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Ao Nang 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.

Okinawa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Okinawa has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Ao Nang. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. In Okinawa, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Okinawa, we can see that Ao Nang 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Okinawa, 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 Ao Nang or Okinawa?

Okinawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Okinawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Okinawa. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ao Nang is around the same temperature as Okinawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Okinawa fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the summer, Ao Nang often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in July than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.

In the autumn, Ao Nang is around the same temperature as Okinawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ao Nang in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Okinawa averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Ao Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Okinawa during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Okinawa in the Winter?

Both Okinawa and Ao Nang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ao Nang usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Ao Nang is a little warmer than Okinawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Okinawa fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ao Nang usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Ao Nang