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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast 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 Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Teton National Park than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Teton National Park is better known for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, beaches, and shopping. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Also, Grand Teton National Park is famous for Jenny Lake.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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 Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Hilton Head Island and Grand Teton National Park.

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.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.


Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Hilton Head Island is a great coastal town for its beaches. However, Grand Teton 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

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

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hilton Head Island. 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, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.


Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-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.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly coastal town. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park 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, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Grand Teton National Park

Hilton Head Island and Grand Teton National Park are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Hilton Head Island is generally not a very walkable coastal town. 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.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Hilton Head Island and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Grand Teton National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Grand Teton National Park than Hilton Head Island. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

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


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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Grand Teton National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. Most people visit for the hiking. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. 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 hiking. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Teton National Park has to offer.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton National Park?

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this park 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.


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, Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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 and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140
  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton 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
    Grand Teton National Park $46

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 Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Grand Teton National Park $43

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:

  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin Tour Hilton Head Island: $250
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $45
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $45
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $35
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22
  • Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour: $35
  • Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort: $30
  • Daufuskie Island Daily Round Trip Ferry Tickets: $54

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Grand Teton National Park $19

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