A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Hilton Head Island for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Hilton Head Island can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a peaceful, beautiful, and resort-filled coastal town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Cancun and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Hilton Head Island are both popular with visitors, Cancun has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cancun is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Cancun 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 Cancun. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Cancun is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cancun or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Cancun and Hilton Head Island.

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Hilton Head Island area. 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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

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

Cancun is a must-see party destination. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Cancun is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Hilton Head Island is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Cancun is terrific for the beach. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hilton Head Island. 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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Cancun is very good for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Cancun and Hilton Head Island.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cancun. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Many visitors go to Hilton Head Island to go shopping. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

You'll find fantastic kid-friendly activities in either Cancun or Hilton Head Island.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Hilton Head Island is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Is Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Cancun 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, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun 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 Cancun. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Cancun 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.

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

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 Cancun or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

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

Cancun is a very walkable destination. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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 Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Both Cancun and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cancun has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cancun than Hilton Head Island. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun 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 Cancun.

One day in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the party-hard destination of Cancun. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Cancun is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical city of Cancun. 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cancun. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cancun has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Cancun 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Hilton Head Island. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Hilton Head Island?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Cancun 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.