A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Redwood National Park for Families, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

Both Redwood National Park and Hilton Head Island have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hilton Head Island is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is famous for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hilton Head Island is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Neither Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park offer decent nightlife.

Hilton Head Island doesn't offer many options. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Redwood National Park. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is well known for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Hilton Head Island to choose from. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Hilton Head Island for it's beautiful 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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Hilton Head Island to go shopping. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is an amazing coastal town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Neither Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Redwood National Park

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable coastal town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

In either Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Redwood National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find food and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. This park 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilton Head Island. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the when visiting the grand park of Redwood National Park. Most people visit for the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Redwood National Park. This is a popular place to visit for five days. 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 a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Redwood National Park has to offer.


A week in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find shopping and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Redwood National Park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hilton Head Island $287
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $287, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Redwood National Park $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $56

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 on Hilton Head: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Redwood National Park $33

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:

  • Tybee Island Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Tour of Tybee Island: $35
  • Walking Tour in Beaufort: $35
  • 90-Minute Dolphin & Nature Tour: $35
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart: $38
  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • Hilton Head Island Ocean Dolphin Cruise: $38
  • Tybee Island Bike Tour: $39
  • Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour: $39
  • Daytime Dolphin Watching Boat Tour: $40
  • Hilton Head Island Dolphin Boat Cruise: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Redwood National Park $11

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

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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Hilton Head Island during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the summer, Hilton Head Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Redwood National Park. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilton Head Island in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Redwood National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Hilton Head Island is generally around the same temperature as Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 48°F (9°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)