A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Atami for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Phuket or Atami?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Atami, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a stunning, activity-filled, and energetic resort island. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Atami

Atami is a nostalgic, authentic, and overlooked town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Phuket and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Atami?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Phuket than Atami, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Phuket is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Atami is more popular for its museums. Phuket is more touristy than Atami and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Also, Phuket is famous for The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Atami is well known for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Phuket different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Atami?

Atami is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Atami offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Atami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Atami can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Atami is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Phuket is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Resorts?

Phuket is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Atami is not a resort destination.

Phuket is a world class resort vacation destination. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Atami is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Beaches?

Phuket is renowned for the beache. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Phuket is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Atami?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Atami and Phuket.

Phuket offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Atami has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Families?

Phuket and Atami are both notable destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Atami offers lots of family activities. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Couples?

Phuket is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Phuket makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Atami is a good resort island for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atami is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Atami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Atami.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Atami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Phuket or Atami a more walkable city?

Phuket and Atami both are notable when exploring on foot.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

Atami is a somewhat walkable resort island. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Atami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atami or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Atami?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atami than Phuket 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 Atami.

One day in Phuket or Atami?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this activity-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Atami. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Phuket or Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atami is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Atami?

Phuket is a fun place to experience. In Phuket, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Atami?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the overlooked destination of Atami. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Atami?

Phuket has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Atami, 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 Phuket or Atami?

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

Should I visit Phuket or Atami in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Atami. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Atami for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Atami in the summer. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Atami fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the summer, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Atami. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 140 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atami. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Atami. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Atami in the Autumn?

Both Atami and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Atami in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Phuket is much warmer than Atami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phuket in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Atami averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Atami during autumn. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 130 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atami. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Atami. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Phuket is December to March. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Should I visit Phuket or Atami in the Winter?

Both Atami and Phuket during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Atami for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Phuket is generally much warmer than Atami. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the winter, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Atami. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun.

Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Atami. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Atami in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Atami. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Atami because of the beaches.

Phuket is much warmer than Atami in the spring. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Atami during spring. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Atami receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Phuket usually receives less rain than Atami. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Typical Weather for Atami and Phuket