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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

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 Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful, resort-filled, and family-friendly coastal town. Hilton Head Island offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. Berkeley offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Berkeley travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berkeley. Although Hilton Head Island and Berkeley are popular destinations, Berkeley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Berkeley is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping, while Hilton Head Island attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Hilton Head Island is famous for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. It is also well known for University of California Botanical Garden.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hilton Head Island and Berkeley.

Hilton Head Island has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Berkeley has a large number of nightlife venues. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting 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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of nice scenery and beauty in both Hilton Head Island and Berkeley.

Hilton Head Island offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly coastal town. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Both Hilton Head Island and Berkeley are nice 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Hilton Head Island is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This is a family-focused beach destination with almost no backpackers around.

Is Hilton Head Island or Berkeley Better for Students?

Berkeley is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Berkeley can take you anywhere. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART 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 Hilton Head Island or Berkeley a more walkable city?

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Berkeley. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hilton Head Island and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Berkeley. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the diverse destination of Berkeley. This city 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 Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive city of Berkeley. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berkeley has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Berkeley. 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 Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley 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.

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

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 Berkeley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Berkeley?

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

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 Hilton Head Island or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Berkeley. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Berkeley and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Berkeley and Hilton Head Island during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Hilton Head Island is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Berkeley. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Hilton Head Island