A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Hilton Head Island for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a stunning, vibrant, and picture-perfect town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

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.

Playa del Carmen and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also well known for La Quinta Avenida. Hilton Head Island is famous for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Playa del Carmen is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Hilton Head Island can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hilton Head Island. 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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Playa del Carmen is a must-see party destination. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen 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, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hilton Head Island and Playa del Carmen.

Many visitors go to Playa del Carmen to go shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hilton Head Island. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is a very family-friendly destination. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen 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, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen has some public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Playa del Carmen. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

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 Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Both Playa del Carmen and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Playa del Carmen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Hilton Head Island. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. This town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 peaceful 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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic town of Playa del Carmen. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Playa del Carmen. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen 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.

When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island?

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 Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Hilton Head Island. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°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 Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the summer, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in July than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island in the Autumn?

Both Hilton Head Island and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Playa del Carmen in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during autumn. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island in the Winter?

Both Hilton Head Island and Playa del Carmen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 23°C (73°F), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the winter, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Hilton Head Island in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during spring. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Playa del Carmen