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

Should you visit Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Yaeyama Islands, 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 party-hard, stunning, and activity-filled resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Phuket and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Phuket have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Phuket is very popular for its nightlife and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Phuket different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Yaeyama Islands offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Yaeyama Islands can be difficult as they are each nice 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."

Yaeyama Islands is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

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

Phuket is a must-see party destination. 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.

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 Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, world-class resorts can be found in both Phuket and Yaeyama Islands.

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

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.

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

You'll find great snorkeling or scuba diving in both Phuket and Yaeyama Islands.

Many visitors go to Phuket to enjoy 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.

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.

Is Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Yaeyama Islands have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in the world. 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.

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.

Is Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Yaeyama Islands. 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

Phuket is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Phuket is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a very kid-friendly archipelago. 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Phuket or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as 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.

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

Phuket 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.

Phuket has a few public transit options. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

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 Phuket or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Phuket is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

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

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable resort island. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Phuket or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than Yaeyama Islands because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Phuket. 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 Phuket. 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 Phuket 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 Phuket.

One day in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

The party-hard destination of Phuket offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

The resort island of Phuket offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

Phuket is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Yaeyama Islands?

The stunning resort island of Phuket offers shopping and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the pristine destination of Yaeyama Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

When comparing the travel costs between Phuket and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Yaeyama Islands. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Should I visit Phuket or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Phuket is December to March.

Should I visit Phuket or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Phuket during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In April, Phuket is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Phuket