A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Martha's Vineyard for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a family-friendly, relaxing, and peaceful 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.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Martha's Vineyard. Although Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations, Martha's Vineyard has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilton Head Island is famous for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Martha's Vineyard is famous for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. It is also well known for the Aquinnah Cliffs.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Martha's Vineyard?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard.

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, Martha's Vineyard makes for a great culinary experience. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

Is Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard Better for Nightlife?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Martha's Vineyard is a perfect choice. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard are high quality choices for a beach vacation.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Martha's Vineyard. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Is Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard Better for Hiking?

Martha's Vineyard is very good for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Martha's Vineyard. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

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 Martha's Vineyard More Beautiful?

Martha's Vineyard 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, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural 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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hilton Head Island is very family-friendly. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Is Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard 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, Martha's Vineyard has plenty to offer. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

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 Martha's Vineyard a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

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 Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Martha's Vineyard or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Martha's Vineyard. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 1-3 days is enough time in Martha's Vineyard.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard.

One day in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

With food and shopping around the destination of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Martha's Vineyard?

With shopping and food around the beautiful coastal town of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place to visit. Even though Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Martha's Vineyard has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

With food and shopping around the relaxing destination of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Since Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Martha's Vineyard?

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Martha's Vineyard Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Martha's Vineyard. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Hilton Head Island is a little warmer than Martha's Vineyard in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 293 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 Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Martha's Vineyard. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Martha's Vineyard. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Martha's Vineyard averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Martha's Vineyard. 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 211 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in October than Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard in the Winter?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year.

It's quite cold in Martha's Vineyard in the winter. In January, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Martha's Vineyard. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Martha's Vineyard during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives less rain than Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Martha's Vineyard in the Spring?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Hilton Head Island during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Martha's Vineyard in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Martha's Vineyard, 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 Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 225 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in April than Martha's Vineyard. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Martha's Vineyard and Hilton Head Island