A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Okinawa vs. Koh Tao for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Okinawa or Koh Tao?

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 Okinawa and Koh Tao. 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.

Okinawa

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

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Okinawa and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Okinawa different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Okinawa is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Okinawa can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Okinawa or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Okinawa and Koh Tao offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Okinawa is an experience not to be missed. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Both Okinawa and Koh Tao are great when it comes to partying.

Okinawa offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

There are great resorts to choose from in both Okinawa and Koh Tao.

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.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find world-class places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Okinawa and Koh Tao.

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.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Okinawa and Koh Tao both offer world-class beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Okinawa draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Both Okinawa and Koh Tao are good shopping destinations.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koh Tao. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an amazing family-friendly archipelago to visit. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Okinawa has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Okinawa is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Okinawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Okinawa or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

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

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable archipelago. 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 Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Both Okinawa and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Okinawa has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Okinawa than Koh Tao. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

In Okinawa, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

In Okinawa, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Okinawa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Okinawa has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Okinawa or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. In Okinawa, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Koh Tao?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Koh Tao, 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 Okinawa or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Okinawa or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Okinawa as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Okinawa in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In July, Okinawa is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Okinawa average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Okinawa this time of the year. In the summer, Okinawa often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Okinawa usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Okinawa or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Okinawa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Okinawa for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Okinawa is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Okinawa averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Okinawa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Okinawa gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Okinawa. In October, Okinawa usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Okinawa or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Okinawa during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In the winter, Okinawa is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Okinawa in January average around 16°C (61°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Okinawa often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. Okinawa usually gets more rain in January than Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Okinawa or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Okinawa and Koh Tao. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Okinawa is generally cooler than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Okinawa average around 22°C (71°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Okinawa usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Okinawa gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Okinawa usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Okinawa gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Okinawa