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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

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 Juneau 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 is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. Juneau is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Juneau travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Juneau: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Hilton Head Island and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts and beaches. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Juneau is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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, Juneau makes for a great culinary experience. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Hilton Head Island or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Juneau is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

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 Juneau Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a well-known place for the beach. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Juneau Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Juneau specifically for its hiking. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

Juneau 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 Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau More Beautiful?

Juneau is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Juneau is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Hilton Head Island or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is terrific for couples. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Juneau has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Hilton Head Island is a nice destination for couples. 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.

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

Juneau 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 Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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

Juneau is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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 Juneau a more walkable city?

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

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

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

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Juneau. This city 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 Juneau?

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the breathtaking city of Juneau. 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 Juneau has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

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 Juneau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Juneau?

Hilton Head Island has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Juneau. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the summer, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Juneau and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Juneau and Hilton Head Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Juneau. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Juneau. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Hilton Head Island