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

Should you visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Yaeyama Islands. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a stunning, peaceful, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Lombok travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a tropical, pristine, and luxurious archipelago. Many visitors also come to Yaeyama Islands because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its resorts. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Lombok different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lombok is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Lombok is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

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.

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

Lombok 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, Lombok makes for a great culinary experience. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Lombok and Yaeyama Islands.

If you're looking for night time activities Lombok has a few options to choose from. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Yaeyama Islands for its luxury resorts. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Lombok is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Is Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok 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 Lombok. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands both offer terrific beaches.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Yaeyama Islands. 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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Yaeyama Islands, and they are excellent.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

Lombok is a well-known place for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lombok is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lombok or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands are somewhat similar when it comes to the terrific scenery.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Is Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Yaeyama Islands are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Yaeyama Islands is known to be 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 Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands both terrific destinations for a couple.

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

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.

Is Lombok or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is terrific for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lombok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

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

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

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.

Is Lombok or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Lombok and Yaeyama Islands are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable island. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Lombok or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than Yaeyama Islands because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Yaeyama Islands. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lombok, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Yaeyama Islands. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lombok that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

The laid back destination of Lombok 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Lombok offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

Lombok is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

The laid back island of Lombok offers museums 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. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the pristine destination of Yaeyama Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Should I visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Lombok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In July, Lombok is generally cooler than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 26°C (79°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lombok usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Lombok is much warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lombok in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In the winter, Lombok often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Lombok usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In April, Lombok usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April. The rainy season in Yaeyama Islands is May to June.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Lombok