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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

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 Monica 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.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a lively, funfilled, and energetic town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hilton Head Island and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Hilton Head Island and Santa Monica are both popular with visitors, Santa Monica has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santa Monica is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also home to the Santa Monica Pier. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Santa Monica 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 Monica has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

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 Monica Better for Nightlife?

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

Santa Monica has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

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 Monica Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Hilton Head Island is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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 Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica 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 Monica is a very popular vacation destination. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

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 the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santa Monica. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Monica Better for Families?

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica.

Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular family destinations. 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 Monica is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

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

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

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 Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Santa Monica is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Hilton Head Island is not a good place to visit for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

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.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

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

Santa Monica is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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 Monica Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hilton Head Island and Santa Monica. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Santa Monica. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

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

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful coastal town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the funfilled destination of Santa Monica. This town offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the beaches. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Santa Monica?

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Santa Monica is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active town of Santa Monica. Most people visit for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this family-friendly destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Santa Monica. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 Monica?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Santa Monica is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Santa Monica, we can see that Hilton Head Island 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 Santa Monica Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica 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 Monica, 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 Monica?

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 Monica in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

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

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

Both Santa Monica 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 shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

Hilton Head Island is around the same temperature as Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Santa Monica 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much colder than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Santa Monica. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Hilton Head Island