A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Yaeyama Islands for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a peaceful, quiet, and beautiful island. 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Yaeyama Islands has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its museums and resorts, while Koh Lanta attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also well known for Nishihama Beach. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island 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 Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

Koh Lanta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Lanta makes for a great culinary experience. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

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

Koh Lanta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

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

Both Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands offer very good scuba diving or snorkeling.

Koh Lanta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Koh Lanta is considered to be a world-class beach destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Both Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands are destinations which offer very good hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lanta. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Many visitors go to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails. 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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Lanta is not a good place to visit for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Lanta has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands are very good to visit with kids.

Koh Lanta is a very kid-friendly island. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lanta and Yaeyama Islands are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Koh Lanta is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

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 Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lanta is a good destination for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

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

How long in Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

One day in Koh Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

The peaceful destination of Koh Lanta offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Koh Lanta offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

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 Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Lanta 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 tropical 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 Lanta or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Koh Lanta. 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 Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing 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 Lanta and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Lanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lanta 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 Lanta.

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

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

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

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

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

In July, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), 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 Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Koh Lanta 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. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta 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.

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

In the autumn, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta 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. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In the winter, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lanta in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Lanta during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta 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.

In April, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 29°C (85°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the spring, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Koh Lanta