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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

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 Pocono Mountains 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 beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful, magnificent, and relaxing region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts and beaches. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pocono Mountains and Hilton Head Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Pocono Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury 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.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is notable for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains.

Hilton Head Island has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for shopping. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-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 family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

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

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural 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 Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

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 Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains are decent 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.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Both Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Pocono Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.

One day in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and food around the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. This region 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 Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. 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. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this region 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.

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

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 Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains?

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

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 Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilton Head Island during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Pocono Mountains. The spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Hilton Head Island