A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Hilton Head Island for Families, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a adventurous, scenic, and idyllic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Cabo San Lucas is famous for Land's End. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Hilton Head Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilton Head Island and Cabo San Lucas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Cabo San Lucas is very good for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cabo San Lucas. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cabo San Lucas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Hilton Head Island offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and oysters.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Cabo San Lucas is a must-see party destination. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Hilton Head Island. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island have superb options.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

There are plenty of resorts in Hilton Head Island to choose from. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island are considered to be superb beach destinations.

The beaches at Cabo San Lucas attract visitors from all over. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Many people visit Hilton Head Island for it's beautiful beaches. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cabo San Lucas. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cabo San Lucas. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cabo San Lucas. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for shopping. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cabo San Lucas is very family-friendly. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is terrific for couples. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cabo San Lucas has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Hilton Head Island is a nice destination for couples. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cabo San Lucas has some public transit options. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Cabo San Lucas is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

For even more information, also check out Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cabo San Lucas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Hilton Head Island. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

Families should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Hilton Head Island. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cabo San Lucas, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Hilton Head Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cabo San Lucas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Hilton Head Island 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 Cabo San Lucas.

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Cabo San Lucas. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the wild city of Cabo San Lucas. Most people visit for the nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the nightlife. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cabo San Lucas has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find food and shopping. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Cabo San Lucas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cabo San Lucas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cabo San Lucas 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 Hilton Head Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilton Head Island than you might in Cabo San Lucas.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cabo San Lucas Expensive? and Is Hilton Head Island Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Hilton Head Island?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Hilton Head Island, 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.