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

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Lancaster travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lancaster. Although Hilton Head Island and Lancaster are popular destinations, Lancaster has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lancaster is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community. It is also well known for Bird-in-Hand Village.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Lancaster specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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, Lancaster makes for a great culinary experience. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Hilton Head Island or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back 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 Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a great coastal town for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a great coastal town for the beach. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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 Lancaster More Beautiful?

Lancaster 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, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

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 Lancaster Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Hilton Head Island or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Lancaster is a very popular place for couples. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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 Lancaster a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island and Lancaster are reasonable 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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

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

How long in Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

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

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

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

One day in Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional destination of Lancaster. This town 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 Lancaster?

You'll find shopping and food around the resort-filled destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the picturesque town of Lancaster. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lancaster has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

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

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilton Head Island, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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 Lancaster Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Lancaster?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Lancaster, 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 Lancaster?

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Lancaster. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hilton Head Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Lancaster. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Lancaster in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Lancaster and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lancaster can be very cold during winter. In January, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Lancaster and Hilton Head Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in April than Lancaster. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Hilton Head Island