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

Should you visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Chang as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, nightlife, and food. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Koh Chang 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 and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking, while Koh Chang is known for its shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also home to Nishihama Beach. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Yaeyama Islands is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

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

Both Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Yaeyama Islands. 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 Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Both Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Yaeyama Islands has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

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.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Is Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Yaeyama Islands to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Yaeyama Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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 Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Chang is a good destination for shopping. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands both are comparable with their world-class scenery and beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

The famous beauty of Yaeyama Islands is one of the main draws. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Is Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands are both great destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Yaeyama Islands is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Yaeyama Islands is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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 Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

Koh Chang 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.

Koh Chang has a few public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands are decent when it comes to walkability.

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable island. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Yaeyama Islands has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Chang. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

The serene destination of Koh Chang 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Koh Chang offers food and nightlife. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the serene destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Chang 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 island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the luxurious archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in 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 Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 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 Koh Chang. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Chang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Chang is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 26°C (79°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the winter, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 282 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. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 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. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Koh Chang