A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Yaeyama Islands for Beaches, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a secluded, remote, and beautiful island. Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a tropical, pristine, and luxurious archipelago. Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yaeyama Islands is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Also, Yaeyama Islands is famous for Nishihama Beach. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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 Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Yaeyama Islands for its luxury resorts. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands both offer terrific beaches.

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Yaeyama Islands. 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 Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands, and they are excellent.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Tarutao is not a good place to visit for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yaeyama Islands. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Yaeyama Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Tarutao is generally not a very walkable island. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

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

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

How long in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Koh Tarutao because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

The undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao offers . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

The island of Koh Tarutao offers . 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Yaeyama Islands. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Koh Tarutao. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Yaeyama Islands. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural 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 Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Yaeyama Islands Expensive?.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 29°C (85°F).

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tarutao during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 23°C (74°F).

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Koh Tarutao