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

Should you visit Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe and Yaeyama Islands can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small, local, and tranquil 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 luxurious, serene, and idyllic archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Koh Lipe 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, nightlife, and resorts, while Koh Lipe is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also home to Nishihama Beach. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

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

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

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe 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 Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

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

Both Koh Lipe and Yaeyama Islands offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Koh Lipe offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

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 Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Yaeyama Islands is a perfect choice. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Koh Lipe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

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

Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lipe is a very popular vacation destination. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lipe. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

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 Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Koh Lipe is a good destination for shopping. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

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

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koh Lipe and Yaeyama Islands.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

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 Lipe or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

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 Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Lipe 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 Lipe.

One day in Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

The idyllic destination of Koh Lipe offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Koh Lipe offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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 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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Lipe 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.

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 Koh Lipe or Yaeyama Islands?

The small island of Koh Lipe offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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 Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

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

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

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

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. May to October in Koh Lipe is the rainy season.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In January, Koh Lipe usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Lipe during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lipe because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Koh Lipe. May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Koh Lipe