A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Yaeyama Islands for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a idyllic, tropical, and pristine archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands are both popular with visitors, Yaeyama Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its museums, resorts, and hiking, while Khao Lak is known for its shopping. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Yaeyama Islands is popular for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also home to Nishihama Beach.

How is Khao Lak different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Khao Lak offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Yaeyama Islands has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Yaeyama Islands is a world class resort vacation destination. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Is Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands offer very good scuba diving or snorkeling.

Khao Lak is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Yaeyama Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

Khao Lak is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Khao Lak is a great destination for shopping. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands are very good to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yaeyama Islands is very family-friendly. 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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Yaeyama Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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

Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

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 Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands both are decent when exploring on foot.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

The laid back destination of Khao Lak offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

The beautiful archipelago of Yaeyama Islands offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

The area of Khao Lak offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This area offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yaeyama Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

The laid back area of Khao Lak 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, 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 Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Yaeyama Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yaeyama Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yaeyama Islands 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 Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Yaeyama Islands.

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

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Should I visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In January, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Khao Lak during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Yaeyama Islands. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Khao Lak