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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg?

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 Gatlinburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a peaceful, beautiful, and resort-filled coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Hilton Head Island and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, Gatlinburg is famous for the Gatlinburg Strip. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is very good for skiing and snowboarding. However, Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

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

Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hilton Head Island. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

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

Gatlinburg is a must-see party destination. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

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 Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Hilton Head Island and Gatlinburg.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hilton Head Island. 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.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Hilton Head Island and Gatlinburg.

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.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for shopping. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is a very popular place for couples. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Gatlinburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of 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 Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg has some public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

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 Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

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

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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 Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

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.

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

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 Gatlinburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Gatlinburg?

Hilton Head Island has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Gatlinburg, 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 Gatlinburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Gatlinburg. The summer months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year.

In the summer, Hilton Head Island is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hilton Head Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Gatlinburg during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Gatlinburg. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Gatlinburg and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Gatlinburg can get quite cold in the winter. Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Gatlinburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Gatlinburg and Hilton Head Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hilton Head Island in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in April than Gatlinburg. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Hilton Head Island