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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic 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 Olympic 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 beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Hilton Head Island and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Olympic National Park. Although Hilton Head Island and Olympic National Park are both popular with visitors, Olympic National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Olympic National Park is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is known for its beaches and shopping. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Olympic National Park is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. It is also home to the Hoh Rain Forest.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hilton Head Island and Olympic National Park.

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.

Olympic National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

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

Neither Hilton Head Island or Olympic 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 Olympic National Park. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

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

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

Olympic National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

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

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for the beache. However, Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

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

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

Many people visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

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

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Hilton Head Island offers some nice shopping areas. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

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

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Olympic 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

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

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

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic 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 Olympic National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Olympic 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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 Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island is a moderate coastal town for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable coastal town. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park?

In either Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Olympic National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Olympic 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 museums and food when visiting the pristine destination of Olympic 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 Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the pristine park of Olympic National Park. Most people visit for the hiking. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Olympic National Park has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Olympic 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Olympic 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 Olympic National Park has to offer.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Olympic 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.

Olympic 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Olympic National Park. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the summer, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

Both Olympic National Park and Hilton Head Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Olympic National Park. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 41°F (5°C).

In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun.

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Olympic National Park. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Hilton Head Island