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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

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 Nashville 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's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and museums.

Hilton Head Island and Nashville: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nashville than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nashville is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Nashville and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. Also, Nashville is famous for The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nashville 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 Nashville. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Nashville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Nashville is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Nashville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

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 Nashville Better for Music?

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

Nashville has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Nashville makes a nice vacation spot. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Nashville 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.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options 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, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Nashville is very good for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hilton Head Island does not offer Christmas activities.

Nashville worth visiting during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Hilton Head Island does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Couples?

Both Hilton Head Island and Nashville are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Nashville is a nice destination for couples. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Nashville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Neither Hilton Head Island or Nashville 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 Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Hilton Head Island or Nashville a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of 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.

Nashville is not a walkable coastal town. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

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

Families should spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Nashville. 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.

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the country music lovers destination of Nashville. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the live music. 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 Nashville?

You'll find shopping and food around the relaxing 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.

Nashville is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the eclectic city of Nashville. Most people visit for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nashville has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

You'll find food and shopping around the resort-filled 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.

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nashville. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the live music. 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 Nashville?

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.

Nashville 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.

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

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 Nashville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Nashville, 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 Nashville?

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 Nashville in the Summer?

Both Nashville and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nashville in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Nashville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Nashville and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Nashville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Nashville. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nashville because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nashville can be very cold. Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Nashville in the winter. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

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

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Nashville. The spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Nashville this time of year.

In the spring, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Nashville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hilton Head Island in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nashville. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in April than Nashville. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Hilton Head Island