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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a beautiful, tropical, and rainforest-covered resort island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a pristine, luxurious, and serene archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Yaeyama Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its museums & sights. Koh Samui is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

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

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

Yaeyama Islands is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have 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 Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui 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 Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Koh Samui is a must-see party destination. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands offer a relatively similar set of amazing luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

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.

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

There's superb scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands are amazing choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Samui. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

With world-famous beaches, Yaeyama Islands is a very popular vacation 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands both have superb trails.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular spot for hiking. 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Samui is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Yaeyama Islands is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for couples. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for romance.

Yaeyama Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Is Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui 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 Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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

Koh Samui 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 Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Samui is generally not a very walkable resort island. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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 Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Couples should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Samui. 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 Samui 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

The rainforest-covered destination of Koh Samui offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

The resort island of Koh Samui offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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 serene 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 Samui or Yaeyama Islands?

The rainforest-covered resort island of Koh Samui 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 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Koh Samui much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Samui would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Samui 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 Samui.

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

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

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

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Samui during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Samui is cooler than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Samui in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 29°C (85°F).

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In October, Koh Samui is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (75°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. Also, October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the museums and the cuisine.

Koh Samui is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 22°C (72°F) in January, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Samui in April average around 24°C (76°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Yaeyama Islands is May to June.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Koh Samui