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

Should you visit Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Hilton Head Island can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Tulum and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

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

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

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tulum has many famous sights for visitors. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tulum 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.

Tulum has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

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

Tulum is a must-see party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Tulum 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, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Tulum 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, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

Tulum 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 Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tulum is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Is Tulum or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Tulum 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, Tulum has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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

Tulum is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Hilton Head Island is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tulum 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.

Tulum has some public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

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

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

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

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

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

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

One day in Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the lively destination of Tulum. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 beautiful 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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

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

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Tulum. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Tulum has to offer.

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 Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

Tulum is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 beautiful 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours 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 Tulum and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Tulum.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Hilton Head Island?

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Tulum during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tulum in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), 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 Tulum. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 232 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 Tulum. Tulum usually gets less rain in July than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Tulum is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) 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 Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Hilton Head Island. The winter months attract visitors to Tulum because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in January than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), 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 Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Tulum