A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nha Trang vs. Okinawa for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Nha Trang or Okinawa?

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 Nha Trang and Okinawa. 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.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a vibrant, high energy, and coastal city. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Nha Trang and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Okinawa than Nha Trang. While Nha Trang is larger than Okinawa, Okinawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Okinawa is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Nha Trang is known for its nightlife. Nha Trang is more touristy than Okinawa and is popular for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts. Okinawa is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands.

How is Nha Trang different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Okinawa. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

Is the Food Better in Nha Trang or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Okinawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Nha Trang is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife.

Nha Trang is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

Okinawa has a large number of nightlife venues. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its luxury resorts. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Okinawa to choose from. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Nha Trang has a few great resort options. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nha Trang is not known for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Snorkeling is an option in Nha Trang. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is very popular for the beache. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Okinawa offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Nha Trang is a good option for a beach vacation. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is very popular for hiking. However, Nha Trang is not a hiking destination.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

Nha Trang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nha Trang and Okinawa both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nha Trang. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Okinawa is very family-friendly. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Nha Trang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Okinawa is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Okinawa is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Nha Trang is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nha Trang is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nha Trang is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nha Trang and Okinawa both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Nha Trang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Okinawa has a few public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Is Nha Trang or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Nha Trang is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Nha Trang is a very walkable destination. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Nha Trang?

How long in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Both Nha Trang and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Nha Trang. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nha Trang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

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

Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Nha Trang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nha Trang than Okinawa 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 Nha Trang.

One day in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

In Nha Trang, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the archipelago of Okinawa. 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 Nha Trang or Okinawa?

In Nha Trang, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nha Trang has to offer.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical destination of Okinawa. 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 Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Nha Trang is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic archipelago of Okinawa. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

A week in Nha Trang or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nha Trang. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nha Trang. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Okinawa is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Okinawa, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nha Trang and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Okinawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Okinawa than you might in Nha Trang.

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

Which is Bigger, Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Nha Trang has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Okinawa. When comparing the sizes of Nha Trang and Okinawa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Nha Trang or Okinawa?

Okinawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Nha Trang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Okinawa in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Nha Trang is around the same temperature as Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nha Trang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nha Trang usually gets less rain in July than Okinawa. Nha Trang gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. January to August is the dry season in Nha Trang. September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Okinawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nha Trang and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Nha Trang year-round. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nha Trang is generally around the same temperature as Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Nha Trang average around 26°C (79°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nha Trang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nha Trang usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Nha Trang gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Okinawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nha Trang as well as Okinawa. Nha Trang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nha Trang is a little warmer than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 24°C (75°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Nha Trang usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to August in Nha Trang is the dry season.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Okinawa in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Nha Trang is a little warmer than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nha Trang in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In April, Nha Trang usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Nha Trang