A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hat Yai vs. Okinawa for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hat Yai or Okinawa?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Okinawa 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a colorful, cultural, and lively city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a tropical, lush, and serene archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Hat Yai and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Okinawa than Hat Yai. While Hat Yai is larger than Okinawa, Okinawa has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Okinawa is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hat Yai attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and big city activities. Okinawa is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also well known for the Kerama Islands. Hat Yai is famous for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Okinawa is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Okinawa. 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.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Is the Food Better in Hat Yai or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hat Yai is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Hat Yai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Okinawa. 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).

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Okinawa has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is notable for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

In Okinawa, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Okinawa is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Hat Yai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Okinawa is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Hat Yai is not a beach destination.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Around Okinawa visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Hat Yai is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Okinawa. 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 Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an extremely popular archipelago to visit for families. 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Okinawa is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Okinawa is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Okinawa has a few public transit options. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Hat Yai or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Hat Yai and Okinawa both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Hat Yai is generally not very walkable. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Hat Yai Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Both Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Okinawa than Hat Yai 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 Okinawa.

One day in Hat Yai or Okinawa?

In Hat Yai, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Hat Yai or Okinawa?

In Hat Yai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Hat Yai is a great place to explore. 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 Hat Yai or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hat Yai. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Okinawa?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Okinawa. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Okinawa?

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

Should I visit Hat Yai or Okinawa in the Summer?

Both Okinawa and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hat Yai is around the same temperature as Okinawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Okinawa fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

It's quite sunny in Okinawa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually receives less sunshine than Okinawa during summer. Hat Yai gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In July, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Hat Yai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Okinawa in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Okinawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hat Yai in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Okinawa averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In the autumn, Hat Yai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 182 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in October than Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Okinawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during winter. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Okinawa. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Hat Yai is a little warmer than Okinawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 30°C (85°F) in April, and Okinawa fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the spring, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in April than Okinawa. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. May to December in Hat Yai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Hat Yai