A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Wilmington for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Wilmington?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wilmington? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons and Wilmington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Wilmington are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wilmington is known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Saint Simons is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Saint Simons different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wilmington and Saint Simons. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Wilmington is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Wilmington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Saint Simons is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Wilmington is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Wilmington has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint Simons and Wilmington are very good choices.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Wilmington is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Wilmington to see the historical old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Saint Simons is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Wilmington.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Wilmington is very family-friendly. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Wilmington make for a very good place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Wilmington is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.


Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Students?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Wilmington is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Wilmington is popular with students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Wilmington is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Wilmington a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Wilmington

Saint Simons and Wilmington both are good when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Wilmington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

In either Saint Simons or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than Saint Simons because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-5 days is enough time in Wilmington.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wilmington than Saint Simons 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 Wilmington.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Wilmington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Wilmington 2-5

One day in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming city 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.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic 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.


A week in Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wilmington is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Which place is cheaper, Wilmington or Saint Simons?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, while the average daily cost in Wilmington is $204. 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 Saint Simons and Wilmington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Wilmington $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Wilmington $240
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Wilmington

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Wilmington? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Wilmington


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Wilmington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Wilmington $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Prices for flights to both Wilmington and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Wilmington $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Wilmington $17

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wilmington.

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Wilmington History and Architecture Tour: $25
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Wilmington Running Tour: Highlights of Historic Downtown: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Wilmington Ghosts: Phantoms of Pirates and Patriots Tour: $33
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50
  • Sunset Harbor Cruise Tour: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Wilmington $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Wilmington, we can see that Wilmington 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Wilmington Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Wilmington?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Wilmington, 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 Saint Simons or Wilmington?

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 Saint Simons or Wilmington in the Summer?

Both Wilmington and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wilmington in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Wilmington in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Wilmington fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun.

Wilmington gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in July than Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wilmington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Wilmington. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wilmington for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Wilmington averages at about 65°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wilmington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Wilmington. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Wilmington fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in January than Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wilmington in the Spring?

Both Wilmington and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Wilmington in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Wilmington fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wilmington. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Wilmington and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Wilmington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)