A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hilton Head Island vs. Halifax for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

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 Halifax 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 is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Halifax travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Halifax: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilton Head Island than Halifax, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilton Head Island is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Halifax is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Halifax and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Also, Hilton Head Island is famous for The Harbour Town Lighthouse. Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Halifax 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 Halifax. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Hilton Head Island or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Halifax 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 Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

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 Halifax Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Hilton Head Island and Halifax.

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.

Halifax is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Hilton Head Island or Halifax More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hilton Head Island or Halifax Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Hilton Head Island or Halifax Better for Couples?

Both Hilton Head Island and Halifax 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.

Halifax is a nice destination for couples. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

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

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

Halifax is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Halifax Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Halifax 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.

Halifax has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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 Halifax a more walkable city?

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable city. It's a compact town that's relatively easy 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 Halifax Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

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

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Halifax. 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 Halifax?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find shopping and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilton Head Island has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. In Hilton Head Island, you'll find shopping and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Halifax 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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.

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

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 Halifax Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Halifax?

Halifax 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 Halifax, 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 Halifax?

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 Hilton Head Island or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hilton Head Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Halifax averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Halifax. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Halifax and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in October than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Halifax. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Halifax in the winter. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun in the winter.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Halifax. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. In the spring, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hilton Head Island in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Halifax averages at about 4°C (39°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in April than Halifax. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Hilton Head Island