A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Hilton Head Island for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a cultural, authentic, and traditional city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Oaxaca de Juarez has many famous sights for visitors. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Oaxaca de Juarez has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilton Head Island makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

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

Oaxaca de Juarez has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is great for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is great for its beaches. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez specifically to go shopping. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island More Beautiful?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a gorgeous place to visit. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

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

Oaxaca de Juarez makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Oaxaca de Juarez, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

Hilton Head Island is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This is a family-focused beach destination with almost no backpackers around.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

Oaxaca de Juarez 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez has some public transit options. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use 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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Hilton Head Island

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Both Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Hilton Head Island 5-7

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the traditional destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful 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.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer.

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.


A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hilton Head Island or Oaxaca de Juarez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Oaxaca de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Hilton Head Island $287

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Hilton Head Island is $287. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and Hilton Head Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Hilton Head Island $129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Hilton Head Island $258
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Hilton Head Island

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island? 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


Hotels in Hilton Head Island


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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices and Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Hilton Head Island $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Xoxocotlan Airport: Private Transfer to Oaxaca City: $82
  • Visit Puerto Escondido: Private Transfer from Oaxaca: $588
  • Taxi Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $20
  • Shared Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $7.51
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Oaxaca Airport: $46
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Oaxaca Airport to Hotels: $46
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) : $43
  • Private and safe transfer from the airport to the hotel in Oaxaca: $60
  • Private Transfer from your Hotel in Oaxaca to the Oaxaca Airport: $13
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel/house .: $89
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel in Oaxaca : $67
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Prices for flights to both Hilton Head Island and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $22
    Hilton Head Island $105

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour - Best Rated : $35
  • Tour with Legends Night Walk and Dinner Included: $42
  • Central Oaxaca Food Tour: $55
  • Electric Bike Food Tour in Oaxaca: $56
  • Oaxacan Dinner on Agronomic Biodiversity: $56
  • Food Tour at the Mercado de Abastos: $57
  • Tradicional Oaxacan Dinner on Agronomic Biodiversity_01: $60
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $65
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $66
  • Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu &Local Market Tour: $70
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: Oaxaca de Juárez: $75

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:

  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Hibachi Dinner Cruise: $117
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Hilton Head Island $23

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • Shared Santa Maria Del Tule Bike Tour: $45
  • “Las Nieves” Monte Albán, Arrazola, Cuilapam 6h Bike Tour: $120
  • 3 Hour Oaxaca Private Tour, 100% customisable - Best Rated : $45
  • 5 Hours Guided Day of The Dead Evening Walking Tour in Oaxaca: $109
  • 7 Hrs Guided Day of the Dead Crafts & Gastronomy Tour from Oaxaca: $199
  • Agave Adventures Mexico: $94
  • Amazing Monte Alban and City tour Private Tour: $200
  • Amazing Waterfall Adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains : $80
  • Amazing experience in the mountain of San Jose del Pacifico: $200
  • An adventure for the senses: Mezcal, fields and crafts.: $78
  • Ancestral Mezcal Experience + ceramics + Alebrijes + Market: $199
  • Ancestral Mezcal Tour Experience A pre Hispanic Heritage: $64

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: $38
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin and Nature Tour: $300
  • 2 Hour Kayak Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $47
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise: $269
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $47
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • 90-Minute Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head: $47
  • 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island : $269
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Hilton Head Island $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl with Mezcal Shots and Live Music: $18
  • Check out Hierve el Agua, Mitla, the Tule Tree, Rugs, and a Mezcal Distillery Tour: $49
  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $50
  • From Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $54
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour: $55
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $55
  • Personalized Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $100
  • Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings: $125
  • Mezcal Distillery Day Trip: $134
  • Artisanal Mezcal distillery in an authentic Zapotec village : $150
  • Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua, Mezcal Distillery, and Lunch Tour: $272

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Hilton Head Island?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Hilton Head Island, 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.