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

Should you visit Koh Chang or Okinawa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Okinawa, 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.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Chang as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. Okinawa is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Okinawa travel costs.

Koh Chang and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Okinawa than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Okinawa is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. Also, Okinawa is famous for the Kerama Islands. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Okinawa can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Okinawa. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, great resorts can be found in both Koh Chang and Okinawa.

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

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.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Okinawa specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Chang and Okinawa have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Okinawa is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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 Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Okinawa draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

Okinawa is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa More Beautiful?

Koh Chang and Okinawa both are comparable with their world-class scenery and beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

The famous beauty of Okinawa is one of the main draws. The islands are filled with beautiful natural environments that range from white sand beaches to mangrove forests. The water is turquoise and the setting is idyllic for vacationers.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an amazing family-friendly archipelago to visit. 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.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Okinawa are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Okinawa is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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 Koh Chang or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Chang is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. 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.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Koh Chang and Okinawa.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

You'll find some public transit in Okinawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Koh Chang and Okinawa are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable island. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

Okinawa is generally not very walkable. 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 Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

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

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang or Okinawa?

In Koh Chang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the archipelago of Okinawa. 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.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

In Koh Chang, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Okinawa. 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.

Five days in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the lush archipelago of Okinawa. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. 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.

Okinawa is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Okinawa, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, 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 Koh Chang and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Okinawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Okinawa than you might in Koh Chang.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Okinawa?

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

Should I visit Koh Chang or Okinawa in the Summer?

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

In July, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Okinawa for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Okinawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 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 Koh Chang. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Okinawa in the Winter?

Both Okinawa and Koh Chang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Okinawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Okinawa averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the winter, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 282 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. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.

In April, Koh Chang is generally a little warmer than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Koh Chang