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

Should you visit Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Tampa and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations, Tampa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tampa is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Hilton Head Island attracts visitors for its resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens.

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

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

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

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

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Tampa is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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 Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Tampa is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Hilton Head Island are great choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place to visit for its 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 the Shopping Better in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.


Is Tampa or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Hilton Head Island is a good coastal town for couples to visit. 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Neither Tampa or Hilton Head Island offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

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 Tampa or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Tampa
Hilton Head Island

Tampa and Hilton Head Island are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

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

How long in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Both Tampa 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 Tampa. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

Families should spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Tampa. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa.


  • How many days in Tampa or Hilton Head Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Hilton Head Island 5-7

One day in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the easy-going destination of Tampa. This city 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.

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this peaceful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Tampa is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the easy-going city of Tampa. 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 Tampa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. 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 fun place to experience. In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Hilton Head Island or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, while the average daily cost in Hilton Head Island is $243. 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 Tampa and Hilton Head Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Hilton Head Island $129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Hilton Head Island $258
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Hilton Head Island

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Hilton Head Island $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

Also for Tampa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $306
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $306
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $206
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $176
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Private transfer: From Tampa to airport and vice versa : $18
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private transfer Arrival or Departure - Tampa International Airport (TPA): $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hilton Head Island

Also for Hilton Head Island, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hilton Head Island, SC to Savannah Hilton Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Prices for flights to both Hilton Head Island and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Hilton Head Island $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

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:

  • Dolphin Watching 3-Course Dinner Cruise: $70
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $102
  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Hilton Head Island $23

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $45

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: $35
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $45
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $45
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $35
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22
  • Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour: $35
  • Daufuskie Island Daily Round Trip Ferry Tickets: $54
  • Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head: $115
  • Guided Reconstruction City Walking Tour in Beaufort: $29
  • Hilton Head & Bluffton: Lowcountry Slingshot Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Hilton Head Island $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40

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 Tampa and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Tampa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tampa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tampa 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 Tampa.

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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Hilton Head Island?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa 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 Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Tampa gets 265 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 Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C)

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tampa is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°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 Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Hilton Head Island. Many visitors come to Tampa in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Hilton Head Island during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tampa is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°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 Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Hilton Head Island. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Tampa

Tampa Hilton Head Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)