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

Should you visit Okinawa or Paihia?

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 Okinawa and Paihia. 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.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. Okinawa is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Okinawa travel costs.

Paihia

Paihia is a fun-filled, beautiful, and relaxing coastal town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Paihia travel costs.

Okinawa and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Paihia?

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

How is Okinawa different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Okinawa or Paihia?

Okinawa is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Paihia. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

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

Both Okinawa and Paihia offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Okinawa is an experience not to be missed. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Paihia. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Okinawa has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paihia is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Okinawa to choose from. 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.

Paihia is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Paihia. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Okinawa and Paihia both offer terrific beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paihia. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Paihia. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Paihia?

Both Okinawa and Paihia are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Paihia. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Is Okinawa or Paihia More Beautiful?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Paihia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Okinawa is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Paihia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Families?

Both Okinawa and Paihia are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Okinawa is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paihia is a very family-friendly destination. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Couples?

Okinawa and Paihia both terrific destinations for a couple.

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.

Paihia makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Is Okinawa or Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paihia 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.

Paihia is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

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

Both Okinawa and Paihia offer good public transit options.

Okinawa has a few 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.

Paihia has some public transit options. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Is Okinawa or Paihia a more walkable city?

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

Paihia is a somewhat walkable coastal town. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable archipelago. 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 Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Paihia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Paihia?

In either Okinawa or Paihia, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than Paihia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 3-5 days is enough time in Paihia.

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

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

One day in Okinawa or Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Okinawa. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Paihia, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Okinawa or Paihia?

Okinawa is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Paihia, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

Five days in Okinawa or Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Paihia 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 Paihia has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Okinawa or Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Okinawa. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paihia. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paihia. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Paihia?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Paihia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.