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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

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

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful 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.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chattanooga. Although Hilton Head Island and Chattanooga are popular destinations, Chattanooga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chattanooga is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking, while Hilton Head Island attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. It is also well known for Rock City.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga?

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hilton Head Island is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

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 Chattanooga Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Hilton Head Island and Chattanooga.

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.

Chattanooga is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Both Hilton Head Island and Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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 Chattanooga a more walkable city?

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

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to 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 Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

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

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Hilton Head Island. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Chattanooga. This city 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.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chattanooga is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thriving city of Chattanooga. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chattanooga has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Chattanooga. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Chattanooga 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.

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

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 Chattanooga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Chattanooga?

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

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 Chattanooga in the Summer?

Both Chattanooga and Hilton Head Island during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Hilton Head Island is around the same temperature as Chattanooga in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the summer, Hilton Head Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Chattanooga. The autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Chattanooga. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. In January, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Chattanooga and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Chattanooga in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Hilton Head Island