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

Should you visit Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

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

Should I visit Savannah 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.

Savannah

Savannah is a beautiful, charming, and scenic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Savannah and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Savannah than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park.

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

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

Savannah is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Savannah specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Savannah 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.

Savannah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

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 Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island is not a good place to visit for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Hilton Head Island for the nightlife. 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.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Savannah 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.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

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.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Is Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Savannah 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 Savannah. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

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 Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

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

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

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 Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Savannah or Hilton Head Island Better for Students?

Savannah is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Savannah is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they 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 Savannah or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

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

Savannah is a very walkable destination. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

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 Savannah Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Both Savannah 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 Savannah. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah 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 Savannah.

One day in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Savannah. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The coastal town of Hilton Head Island offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Savannah is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic city of Savannah. 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 Savannah has to offer.

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Savannah. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilton Head Island, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Savannah 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. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilton Head Island has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Hilton Head Island?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Savannah 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 Savannah 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 Savannah or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and Savannah during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the summer, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hilton Head Island. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Hilton Head Island. Many travelers come to Savannah for 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.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during autumn. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hilton Head Island. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Hilton Head Island. Many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Savannah is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun.

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

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during spring. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hilton Head Island. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Savannah