A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Koh Tao for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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 Koh Tao. 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 serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its museums and resorts. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao?

Yaeyama Islands is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Koh Tao 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, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

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 Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao offers plenty to do in the evening. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Yaeyama Islands offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao both offer world-class 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 Koh Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao, and they are great.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao is a great destination for shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yaeyama Islands is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is terrific for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Yaeyama Islands. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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.

The laid back destination of Koh Tao 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.

A weekend in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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.

The island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Koh Tao?

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.

The mellow island of Koh Tao 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.

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 Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

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 Koh Tao Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the summer, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Yaeyama Islands often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Yaeyama Islands is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Yaeyama Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the museums and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Yaeyama Islands is cooler than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in January than Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tao. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in April average around 23°C (74°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Yaeyama Islands