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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

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 Colorado Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a peaceful, beautiful, and resort-filled 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.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and museums. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Colorado Springs than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Colorado Springs is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. Also, Colorado Springs is famous for Pikes Peak.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Colorado Springs has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.

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 Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hilton Head Island. 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.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

Hilton Head Island is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. The town is surrounded by tons of natural beauty. In the area you'll find the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular family destinations. 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, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Both Hilton Head Island and Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

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

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

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 Colorado Springs Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Neither Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island and Colorado Springs are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Hilton Head Island is generally not a very walkable coastal town. 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.

Colorado Springs is generally not very walkable. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

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

Families should spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Colorado Springs. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs.

One day in Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and food around the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the healthy destination of Colorado Springs. This mountain town offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Colorado Springs is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming mountain town of Colorado Springs. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Colorado Springs has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Colorado Springs. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Colorado Springs?

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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

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 Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Colorado Springs, 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 Colorado Springs?

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 Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Hilton Head Island during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In the summer, Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hilton Head Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Colorado Springs. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the winter for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Colorado Springs can get quite cold in the winter. Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hilton Head Island in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Hilton Head Island