A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Hilton Head Island for Beaches, Families, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Hilton Head Island can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See La Paz travel costs.

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. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

La Paz and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Hilton Head Island are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is La Paz different from Hilton Head Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

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

Many visitors head to La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


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

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

Foodies will find both La Paz and Hilton Head Island both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

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.

Is La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz 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 La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

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 La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is notable for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.


Is La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz is terrific for the beach. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz 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 La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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 La Paz or Hilton Head Island More Beautiful?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Is La Paz or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

Both La Paz and Hilton Head Island are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Hilton Head Island is a good city 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.


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

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz 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 La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

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

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

La Paz is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

La Paz has some public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around 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 La Paz or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

La Paz
Hilton Head Island

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

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Both La Paz and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Hilton Head Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Hilton Head Island 5-7

One day in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of La Paz. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

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.

A weekend in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

La Paz is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of La Paz. Most people visit for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

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.

Five days in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

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.


A week in La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

La Paz 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hilton Head Island or La Paz?

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

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Hilton Head Island $287

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Hilton Head Island is $287. 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 La Paz and Hilton Head Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Hilton Head Island $129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Hilton Head Island $258
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Hilton Head Island

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Hilton Head Island? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Hilton Head Island


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

Prices for flights to both Hilton Head Island and La Paz 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
    La Paz $60
    Hilton Head Island $105

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

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.
    La Paz $11
    Hilton Head Island $23

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • 3 Hours La Paz Whale Shark First Class Snorkeling Tour: $167
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $127
  • Birding La Paz Mexico 4hrs.Tour : $160
  • Birding Tour in La Paz Mexico: $177
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • Cultural and Culinary Tour of El Triunfo, Baja California Sur: $250
  • Desert Off Road Adventure Tour in La Paz: $261
  • Desert and Dunes ATV Adventure in La Paz BCS Mexico: $195
  • Espíritu Santo and Balandra Beach Combo Tour: Sea Lion Snorkeling: $250
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145

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
    La Paz $11
    Hilton Head Island $26

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Hilton Head Island Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Hilton Head Island, 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 La Paz or Hilton Head Island?

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 La Paz or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, La Paz is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Hilton Head Island in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Hilton Head Island during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Hilton Head Island in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Hilton Head Island. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

La Paz is much warmer than Hilton Head Island in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Hilton Head Island in the Spring?

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

In the spring, La Paz is a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and La Paz

La Paz Hilton Head Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)