A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Yaeyama Islands for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands? 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's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a pristine, luxurious, and serene archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Ao Nang and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands than Ao Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yaeyama Islands is better known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ao Nang is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Ao Nang is well known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Also, Yaeyama Islands is famous for Nishihama Beach.

How is Ao Nang different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands?

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Yaeyama Islands and Ao Nang.

While most people don't head to Ao Nang specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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).

Yaeyama Islands offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

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

Both Ao Nang and Yaeyama Islands offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Ao Nang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Yaeyama Islands offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Ao Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Yaeyama Islands is a great choice. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ao Nang. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's superb scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Ao Nang and Yaeyama Islands.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

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 Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

Ao Nang is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yaeyama Islands. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

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 Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

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

Yaeyama Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

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 Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Ao Nang. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

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

Ao Nang is a good destination for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

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

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable town. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Ao Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ao Nang than Yaeyama Islands 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 Ao Nang.

One day in Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

The accessible destination of Ao Nang offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Yaeyama Islands?

The town of Ao Nang offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find nightlife and food. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Ao Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Yaeyama Islands. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Yaeyama Islands, 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 Yaeyama Islands Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Ao Nang is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ao Nang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. 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 Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (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 Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

Both Yaeyama Islands 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 and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In October, Ao Nang is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Ao Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Yaeyama Islands during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 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 Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands for the museums and the cuisine.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ao Nang usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Ao Nang is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ao Nang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Ao Nang