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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

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 Las Vegas can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

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

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a fun-filled, entertaining, and sexy entertainment capital. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Hilton Head Island and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Las Vegas than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Las Vegas is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Also, Las Vegas is famous for The 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 Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas?

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

Many visitors head to Las Vegas specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Las Vegas is world-class. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

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

Las Vegas is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Las Vegas has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

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

Las Vegas is a must-see party destination. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

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 Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is terrific for its music scene. However, Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Las Vegas has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas 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, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

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 Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is notable for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Hilton Head Island for it's beautiful 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.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Las Vegas specifically to go shopping. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hilton Head Island is very family-friendly. 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.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Las Vegas 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, Las Vegas has plenty to offer. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

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 Las Vegas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

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 Las Vegas a more walkable city?

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

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable entertainment capital. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

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 Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

Both Hilton Head Island and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Las Vegas has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Las Vegas than Hilton Head Island. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas.

One day in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People often spend their time 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Las Vegas is a sinful big city where you can fill many days. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and food around the peaceful destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Las Vegas is a popular place to visit. Las Vegas is a fun-filled entertainment capital where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful coastal town of Hilton Head Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Las Vegas is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilton Head Island, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hilton Head Island and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Hilton Head Island much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilton Head Island would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilton Head Island 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 Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas than you might in Hilton Head Island.

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 Las Vegas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Las Vegas, 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.