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

Should you visit Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Yaeyama Islands can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a colorful, active, and vibrant resort city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Yaeyama Islands

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

Pattaya and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pattaya. Although Pattaya and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Pattaya different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Pattaya is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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 Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pattaya 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, Pattaya makes for a great culinary experience. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

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

Pattaya is a must-see party destination. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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 Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its resorts.

Yaeyama Islands is a world class resort vacation destination. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

There are plenty of resorts in Pattaya to choose from. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Yaeyama Islands is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Is Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Yaeyama Islands is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails. 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.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

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

Pattaya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Yaeyama Islands are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with 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 Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

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

Pattaya is a good destination for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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

Pattaya 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.

Pattaya has a few public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

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 Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

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

Pattaya is generally not a very walkable resort city. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most 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 Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Pattaya because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

Couples should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Pattaya. 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 Pattaya 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 Pattaya.

One day in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

The vibrant destination of Pattaya offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

The resort city of Pattaya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find nightlife and food. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This resort city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Yaeyama Islands. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, 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 Pattaya and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Pattaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pattaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pattaya 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 Pattaya.

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

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

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

Should I visit Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

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

In July, Pattaya is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

In Yaeyama Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Pattaya often gets less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

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

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

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Pattaya is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pattaya in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 30°C (86°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October. The rainy season in Yaeyama Islands is May to June.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Pattaya