A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Okinawa vs. Lake Tekapo for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

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 Lake Tekapo. 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 serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a remote, basic, and small town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Okinawa and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Lake Tekapo are popular destinations, Okinawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Okinawa is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lake Tekapo attracts visitors for its small town charm. Okinawa is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is known for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also well known for the Kerama Islands. Lake Tekapo is famous for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Okinawa different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo?

Okinawa is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Okinawa know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a great destination for its resorts. However, Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

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.

Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is terrific for the beach. However, Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

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.

Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Lake Tekapo for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Okinawa is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

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.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Okinawa is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Lake Tekapo is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Okinawa is terrific for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Okinawa and Lake Tekapo are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

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

Okinawa is a good destination for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Okinawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Okinawa or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Lake Tekapo is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

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 Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Okinawa than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo. 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 Okinawa than Lake Tekapo 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 Okinawa.

One day in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the lush archipelago of Okinawa. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lake Tekapo, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the serene destination of Okinawa. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Lake Tekapo, you'll find . 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 Lake Tekapo has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the tropical archipelago of Okinawa. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lake Tekapo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Okinawa. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Tekapo. Many people enjoy the when visiting Lake Tekapo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Okinawa and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Lake Tekapo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Okinawa is in Asia and Lake Tekapo is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Lake Tekapo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo.

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

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Lake Tekapo?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 380 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Lake Tekapo, 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.