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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Okinawa?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Okinawa 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a idyllic, remote, and spectacular island chain. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Similan Islands and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Similan Islands and Okinawa are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Okinawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Okinawa has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

In Okinawa, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Similan Islands is not a resort destination.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Similan Islands and Okinawa offer fantastic scuba diving or snorkeling.

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

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.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Both Similan Islands and Okinawa are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

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.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is an amazing archipelago to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Okinawa visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Similan Islands offers some nice hiking trails. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Okinawa. 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is an amazing archipelago to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an extremely popular archipelago to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Both Similan Islands and Okinawa are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Okinawa is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

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

Okinawa is a archipelago with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Okinawa has some public transit options. 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 Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Okinawa a more walkable city?

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

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable island chain. 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 Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

Both Similan Islands and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Okinawa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Okinawa than Similan Islands. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Okinawa than Similan 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 Okinawa.

One day in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

In Similan Islands, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island chain offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The idyllic destination of Okinawa offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

In Similan Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The archipelago of Okinawa offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

Similan Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Similan Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Similan Islands or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. In Similan Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

The serene archipelago of Okinawa offers museums 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.

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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Okinawa?

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

Should I visit Similan Islands or Okinawa in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Similan Islands in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (81°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Okinawa during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Okinawa in the Winter?

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

Similan Islands is much warmer than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Okinawa. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Similan Islands