A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Bangor for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

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 Hilton Head Island and Bangor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Hilton Head Island and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilton Head Island. Although Hilton Head Island and Bangor are popular destinations, Hilton Head Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilton Head Island is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. It is also well known for The Harbour Town Lighthouse. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Bangor 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 Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hilton Head Island and Bangor.

Hilton Head Island is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Bangor offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Hilton Head Island or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Bangor is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

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 Hilton Head Island or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Hilton Head Island or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hilton Head Island attract visitors from all over. 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Hilton Head Island and Bangor.

Hilton Head Island has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Bangor is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Hilton Head Island or Bangor Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Bangor is a family-friendly coastal town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.


Is Hilton Head Island or Bangor Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Hilton Head Island is a good coastal town for couples to visit. 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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

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

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Bangor is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

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 Hilton Head Island or Bangor a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Bangor

Bangor is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hilton Head Island or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hilton Head Island than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Bangor. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

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.

Bangor is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the welcoming town of Bangor. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Bangor. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


A week in Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful 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.

Bangor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Hilton Head Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $243, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $197. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hilton Head Island and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Bangor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hilton Head Island


Hotels in Bangor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Hilton Head Island change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hilton Head Island $60
    Bangor $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilton Head Island

For Hilton Head Island, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dolphin Watching 3-Course Dinner Cruise: $70
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $102
  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Bangor $45

Tours and Activities in Hilton Head Island

For Hilton Head Island, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kazoo Factory Tour & Museum : $15
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22
  • Tybee Island Ghost Tour: $30
  • Walking Tour in Beaufort: $30
  • Historic Tour of Tybee Island: $30
  • Historic Walking Tour of Tybee Island: $30
  • Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort: $30
  • History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart: $32
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $35
  • 90-Minute Dolphin & Nature Tour: $35
  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $35
  • Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour: $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Bangor $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Hilton Head Island

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hilton Head Island:

  • Hilton Head's ONLY Distillery Experience: $55


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

Hilton Head Island has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Bangor, 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.


When is the best time to visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Bangor. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Bangor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Bangor in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Bangor. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor in the Autumn?

Both Bangor and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Bangor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Bangor. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor and Hilton Head Island during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bangor can be very cold. In January, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bangor. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Bangor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Bangor. The spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Bangor in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Bangor. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)