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

Should you visit Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Hilton Head Island, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful, resort-filled, and family-friendly coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Wilmington and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wilmington than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wilmington is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Also, Wilmington is famous for the Battleship North Carolina.

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

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

Wilmington is very good for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wilmington. 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.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Wilmington and Hilton Head Island offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Wilmington. 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.

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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Is Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Both Wilmington and Hilton Head Island have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. 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.

The beaches at Hilton Head Island attract visitors from all over. 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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington has an old town worth visiting. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

If you're looking to go shopping, Wilmington and Hilton Head Island both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Hilton Head Island offers some nice shopping areas. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. 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.

Wilmington is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

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

Wilmington makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island Better for Students?

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

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

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Wilmington is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

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

How long in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

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

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

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

One day in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Wilmington. 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.

With shopping and food around the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

Wilmington is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Wilmington. 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 Wilmington has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wilmington. 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 Wilmington has to offer.

Hilton Head Island, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

Wilmington 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.

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Hilton Head Island?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wilmington is generally around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Wilmington gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Hilton Head Island. The autumn months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

Wilmington is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°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 Wilmington this time of the year. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Wilmington is cooler than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during winter. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Wilmington during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Wilmington is generally cooler than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the spring, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hilton Head Island. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Wilmington