A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise. 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. Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a thrilling, active, and ritzy city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise than Yaeyama Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Surfers Paradise is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Also, Surfers Paradise is famous for the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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.

Is the Food Better in Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Surfers Paradise is a must-see party destination. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Surfers Paradise is a great choice. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find great places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Surfers Paradise is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its 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.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is very family-friendly. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Surfers Paradise is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Surfers Paradise is a good destination for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Surfers Paradise has a few public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Public transit is mostly 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 Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

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

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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 Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

Families should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Yaeyama Islands. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Surfers Paradise, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Yaeyama Islands. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Surfers Paradise that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The active destination of Surfers Paradise offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find nightlife and food around the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The city of Surfers Paradise offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Surfers Paradise?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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 Surfers Paradise?

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The thrilling city of Surfers Paradise offers museums 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Surfers Paradise 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. Even though Yaeyama Islands is in Asia and Surfers Paradise is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

Both Surfers Paradise and Yaeyama Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Surfers Paradisein January. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 29°C (85°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Yaeyama Islands. In the summer, Yaeyama Islands often gets more sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise 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 around the same amount of rain in July as Surfers Paradisein January. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Surfers Paradise. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 26°C (78°F) in October, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Surfers Paradise. The winter months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

In the winter, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the winter, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches.

In April, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Surfers Paradisein October. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 23°C (74°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In April, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Yaeyama Islands is May to June.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Yaeyama Islands