A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Hershey for Families, Food, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Hershey?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Hershey? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. It's also known for shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Saint Simons and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Hershey are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its museums and attractions and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Saint Simons and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach.

How is Saint Simons different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hershey and Saint Simons. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Hershey is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Hershey

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint Simons or Hershey has a better nightlife scene.

Saint Simons is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Hershey is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.


Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a great destination for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a great destination for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.


Is Saint Simons or Hershey More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Hershey is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Hershey

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Hershey make for a high quality place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Hershey is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.


Is Saint Simons or Hershey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Hershey is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Hershey a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Hershey

Saint Simons is a popular place for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable island. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Hershey. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Saint Simons. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hershey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Saint Simons than Hershey. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Simons that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons than Hershey 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 Saint Simons.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Hershey, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this lighthearted town offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons has to offer.

Hershey is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and shopping around the lighthearted destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Hershey is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Hershey Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Hershey $257

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $257. 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 Saint Simons and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Hershey? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Hershey


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $83
    Hershey $105

Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hershey

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

  • Hershey Trolley Crawl and Evening Food Tour on a Vintage Trolley: $20
  • Hershey Trolley Food Tour Experience: $99
  • Rise and Dine Food Tour in Vintage Style Trolley: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Hershey $53

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Harrisburg's Historic Downtown Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Hershey $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Simons and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Saint Simons much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Simons would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Simons 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 Hershey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hershey than you might in Saint Simons.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Hershey?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Hershey, 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 Saint Simons or Hershey?

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 Saint Simons or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives less sunshine than Hershey during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Hershey. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Saint Simons during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hershey. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Hershey. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Hershey. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Hershey. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)