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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

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

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a laid-back, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Kamloops travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kamloops. Although Hilton Head Island and Kamloops are both popular with visitors, Kamloops has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kamloops is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking, while Hilton Head Island is known for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Kamloops is popular for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses. It is also home to Sun Peaks Resort.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Kamloops is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Hilton Head Island is not a skiing destination.


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

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Kamloops is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hilton Head Island has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Kamloops 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 Kamloops. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

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 Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hilton Head Island attract visitors from all over. 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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Kamloops is very good for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Hilton Head Island and Kamloops.

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.

Kamloops is a great destination for shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. 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.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.


Is Hilton Head Island or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Both Hilton Head Island and Kamloops are good 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.

Kamloops is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Kamloops 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 Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

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 Kamloops a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Kamloops

Hilton Head Island and Kamloops are decent 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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.


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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hilton Head Island than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

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 shopping and skiing when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Kamloops. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the laid-back city of Kamloops. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kamloops has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

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 nightlife and food when visiting Kamloops. 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 Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Hilton Head Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hilton Head Island $287
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $287, while the average daily cost in Kamloops is $99. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hilton Head Island and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Kamloops? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hilton Head Island


Hotels in Kamloops


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Hilton Head Island change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hilton Head Island $105
    Kamloops $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilton Head Island

For Hilton Head Island, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Hibachi Dinner Cruise: $117
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Typical Food Prices in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $5.80
  • Lunch for Two
    $25
  • Coffee and Gelato
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Hilton Head Island

For Hilton Head Island, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin and Nature Tour: $300
  • 2 Hour Kayak Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $47
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise: $269
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $47
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • 90-Minute Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head: $47
  • 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island : $269
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22

Tours and Activities in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • BC Wildlife Park Entry Ticket: $14
  • Scenic Kamloops Self Guided Audio Driving Tour to Lake Louise : $12
  • Skip the Line: Kamloops BC Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $15
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops & Revelstoke: $8.07
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops and Vancouver: $8.08
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Kamloops by Zombie Scavengers: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Kamloops $6.77

Sample the Local Flavors in Hilton Head Island

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hilton Head Island:

  • Hilton Head's ONLY Distillery Experience: $55


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

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 Kamloops Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Kamloops, 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 Kamloops?

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 Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kamloops in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

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

Both Kamloops and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Kamloops in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Kamloops. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kamloops can be very cold. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Kamloops averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Kamloops. The spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)