A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Byron Bay for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

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 Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay. 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.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a idyllic, tropical, and pristine archipelago. You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a relaxed, mellow, and vegan-friendly town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Byron Bay is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Byron Bay. Although Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay are popular destinations, Byron Bay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Byron Bay is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Byron Bay is famous for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. It is also well known for Cape Byron Lighthouse.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

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

Byron Bay 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, Byron Bay makes for a great culinary experience. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

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 Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Byron Bay is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Byron Bay offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

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 Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury 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 Byron Bay to choose from. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay both offer fantastic beaches.

Yaeyama Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Byron Bay. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Byron Bay offers some nice hiking trails. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

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

Byron Bay is an extremely popular place for shoppers. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly archipelago. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Byron Bay is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

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

Byron Bay is somewhat walkable. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Yaeyama Islands. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The vegan-friendly destination of Byron Bay offers food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches 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.

A weekend in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the serene destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The town of Byron Bay offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Five days in Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

Byron Bay is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This town 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 Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The carefree town of Byron Bay offers food and shopping. 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 Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Byron Bay is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Yaeyama Islands has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Byron Bay. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In July, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin January. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

Both Byron Bay and Yaeyama Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

In October, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Byron Bayin April. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 26°C (78°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F).

Byron Bay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in October than Byron Bayin April. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Byron Bay. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Byron Bay in the winter. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in July.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin July. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Byron Bay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Byron Bay. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in April average around 23°C (74°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in April than Byron Bayin October. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to June in Yaeyama Islands is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Yaeyama Islands