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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Avon?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Avon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

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

Avon

Avon is a active, outdoorsy, and scenic town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Avon travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Avon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Avon than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Avon is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Avon is well known for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. Also, Avon is famous for Avon Recreation Center.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Avon and Hilton Head Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Skiing?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Avon is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

Avon draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.


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

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Avon is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Hilton Head Island is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilton Head Island makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Avon 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 Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.

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 Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Hilton Head Island to choose from. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Avon makes a nice vacation spot. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Hilton Head Island is notable for its beaches. However, Avon is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Hilton Head Island for it's beautiful 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.

Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Hiking?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Avon is very good for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Avon. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Hilton Head Island is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Hilton Head Island is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a gorgeous place to visit. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hilton Head Island is very family-friendly. 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.

Avon is a family-friendly coastal town. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.


Is Hilton Head Island or Avon Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Both Hilton Head Island and Avon are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Avon is a nice destination for couples. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

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

Hilton Head Island
Avon

Avon 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.

Avon has some public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

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 Hilton Head Island or Avon a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Avon

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

Avon is a somewhat walkable town. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

It's fun to spend time in either Hilton Head Island or Avon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-4 days is enough time in Avon.

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

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


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Avon. This town offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Avon is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the scenic town of Avon. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Avon has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Hilton Head Island. This coastal town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Avon. 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.


A week in Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly coastal town of Hilton Head Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Avon or Hilton Head Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Avon Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hilton Head Island $287
    Avon $326

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $287, while the average daily cost in Avon is $326. 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 Hilton Head Island and Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Avon? 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 Hilton Head Island


Hotels in Avon


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: Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices and Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Avon $41

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

Prices for flights to both Avon and Hilton Head Island 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
    Hilton Head Island $105
    Avon $117

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:

  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Hibachi Dinner Cruise: $117
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Avon $48

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:

  • Historic Beaufort Smartphone Guided Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Kazoo Factory Tour & Museum : $15
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22
  • Tybee Island Ghost Tour: $30
  • 90-Minute Dolphin & Nature Tour: $35
  • Walking Tour in Beaufort: $35
  • Historic Tour of Tybee Island: $35
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart: $38
  • Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort: $38
  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • Hilton Head Island Ocean Dolphin Cruise: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Avon $38

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 comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Avon, we can see that Avon 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 Hilton Head Island Expensive? and Is Avon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Avon?

Hilton Head Island has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Avon, 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.