A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Glacier National Park for Families, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

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 Glacier National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Hilton Head Island and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. 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 Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Neither Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park offer decent nightlife.

Hilton Head Island doesn't offer many options. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Glacier National Park. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

Hilton Head Island is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.


Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is notable for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.


Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hilton Head Island is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly coastal town. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

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

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

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 Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

A large number of backpackers visit Glacier National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

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 Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Glacier National Park

Hilton Head Island is a moderate coastal town for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

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.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable coastal town. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hilton Head Island and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park.


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find food and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Glacier National Park. This park offers something for everyone. 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.


A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Glacier National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning park of Glacier National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glacier National Park has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Glacier National Park?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find shopping and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Glacier National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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, Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park? 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 Glacier National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park 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
    Glacier National Park $28

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Glacier National Park $34

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

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Glacier National Park $8.41

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 Glacier National Park, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Glacier National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glacier National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park.

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 Glacier National Park Expensive?.