A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Yaeyama Islands for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Yaeyama Islands can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a spiritual, cultural, and stunning island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a luxurious, serene, and idyllic archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Bali and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bali. Although Bali and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its museums. Bali is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Bali different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands is a moderate archipelago for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Bali is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bali is a must-see party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

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 Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Bali and Yaeyama Islands.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Yaeyama Islands offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Is Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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 Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Bali and Yaeyama Islands are first-rate choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

The beaches in Yaeyama Islands are among the best in the world. 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.

Is Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Bali and Yaeyama Islands.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

Bali is a well-known place for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bali is an extremely popular place for shoppers. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Yaeyama Islands.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

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.

Is Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Both Bali and Yaeyama Islands are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Yaeyama Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Bali or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is terrific for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bali is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

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

Bali 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.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

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 Bali or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Bali and Yaeyama Islands both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Bali is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Bali?

How long in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Bali or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Yaeyama Islands because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

The lush destination of Bali 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Bali offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Yaeyama Islands is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

Bali is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the luxurious destination of Yaeyama Islands. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

The tropical island of Bali offers shopping and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

The tropical archipelago of Yaeyama Islands offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bali is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Yaeyama Islands. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Should I visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Bali during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Bali is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the autumn, Bali often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In the winter, Bali is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Bali usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun in the winter.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Bali usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bali as well as Yaeyama Islands. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Bali is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the spring, Bali often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Bali usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season. May to June in Yaeyama Islands is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Bali