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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

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 Santa Barbara 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a stunning, wealthy, and opulent coastal town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Hilton Head Island and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara. Although Hilton Head Island and Santa Barbara are popular destinations, Santa Barbara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilton Head Island is famous for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Santa Barbara is famous for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. It is also well known for The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Santa Barbara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Santa Barbara has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Hilton Head Island and Santa Barbara.

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.

Santa Barbara is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is terrific for the beach. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Santa Barbara is a very popular vacation destination. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Santa Barbara has an old town worth visiting. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara specifically to go shopping. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town 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.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara 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, Santa Barbara has plenty to offer. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Santa Barbara is very popular with students. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Santa Barbara is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Santa Barbara has some public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

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 Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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 Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

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

Families should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Hilton Head Island. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Santa Barbara, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful destination of Hilton Head Island. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 nightlife when visiting the pristine destination of Santa Barbara. This coastal town 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 Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Santa Barbara is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the wealthy coastal town of Santa Barbara. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Santa Barbara. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

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 Santa Barbara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara?

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 Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Santa Barbara. 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 Santa Barbara because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Santa Barbara in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Santa Barbara. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hilton Head Island is generally cooler than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Santa Barbara. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Santa Barbara. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Santa Barbara in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Hilton Head Island