A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Hilton Head Island for Families, Resorts, Beaches, and Food

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. It's also popular because of the museums, beaches, and hiking.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island. Although Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations, Jekyll Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jekyll Island is very popular for its museums and hiking, while Hilton Head Island attracts visitors for its food, resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. It is also well known for Driftwood Beach.

How is Jekyll Island different from Hilton Head Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Neither Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island offer decent nightlife.

Jekyll Island doesn't offer many options. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

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 Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its 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.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Is Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Both Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island are considered to be superb beach destinations.

The beaches at Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Many people visit Hilton Head Island for it's beautiful beaches. 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 Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Both Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Jekyll Island is a good island for couples to visit. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Neither Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

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 Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its 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.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Both Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Jekyll Island. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island.

One day in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. This island 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.

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.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Jekyll Island is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the natural island of Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island has to offer.

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.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. 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.

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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

Jekyll Island 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Hilton Head Island Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island?

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 Jekyll Island or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. It's quite rainy in Jekyll Island. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Jekyll Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Hilton Head Island. The winter months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

In January, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Hilton Head Island during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Hilton Head Island. The beaches are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hilton Head Island. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Jekyll Island