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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

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 Sacramento can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful, resort-filled, and family-friendly coastal town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a undiscovered, laid back, and relaxed city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Hilton Head Island and Sacramento: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


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

Both Sacramento and Hilton Head Island have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hilton Head Island is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Sacramento is known for its museums and nightlife. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Sacramento and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Sacramento is popular for its history and state capital.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

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

Many visitors head to Sacramento specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

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

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.

Sacramento offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Hilton Head Island or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Sacramento is very good for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

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 Sacramento Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Sacramento is not a resort destination.

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.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.


Is Hilton Head Island or Sacramento Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for the beache. However, Sacramento is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hilton Head Island. 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.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

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

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.

Sacramento is a great destination for shopping. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Is Hilton Head Island or Sacramento Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Hilton Head Island is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. 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 Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.


Is Hilton Head Island or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Hilton Head Island is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Hilton Head Island makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

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

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

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 Sacramento a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Sacramento

Hilton Head Island and Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.


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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hilton Head Island than Sacramento because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Sacramento.

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

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


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

With shopping and food around the peaceful coastal town of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxed destination of Sacramento. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

With food and shopping around the destination of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sacramento is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered city of Sacramento. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sacramento has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

Hilton Head Island, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Sacramento. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Sacramento?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sacramento 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sacramento 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 Sacramento is $281. 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 Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Sacramento

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Sacramento? 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 Sacramento


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 Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

Also for Sacramento, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $222
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

Prices for flights to both Sacramento 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
    Sacramento $53

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 Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Midtown Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Italian Cooking and Dance Class Experience: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Sacramento $19

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 Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Delta's History and Wine: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour : $45
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Folsom Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Full-Day Boarding Experience Wakeboard,Wakesurf,orKneeboard: $850
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Half Day Boarding Experience Wakeboard,Wakesurf,or Kneeboard: $425
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Sacramento $12

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sacramento Bar Hunt: Sacramento Sprint Bar Crawl: $12
  • Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento: $125


When comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Sacramento, we can see that Sacramento is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sacramento Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Sacramento?

Sacramento 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 Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

Both Sacramento and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sacramento for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Sacramento. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 439 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 Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Sacramento and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sacramento in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Sacramento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Sacramento, 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 less sunshine than Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in October than Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Sacramento. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sacramento for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Sacramento averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Sacramento during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Sacramento. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. 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 less sunshine than Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in April than Sacramento. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)