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

Should you visit Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Tallahassee travel costs.

Hilton Head Island

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

Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilton Head Island. Although Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations, Hilton Head Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilton Head Island is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. It is also well known for The Harbour Town Lighthouse. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

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

Many visitors head to Tallahassee specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hilton Head Island attract visitors from all over. 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

If you're looking to go shopping, Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island both offer plenty of nice spots.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island More Beautiful?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

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

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Hilton Head Island is a good coastal town 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

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

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Tallahassee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Tallahassee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Tallahassee is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Hilton Head Island

Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

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


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Hilton Head Island 5-7

One day in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Hilton Head Island. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Tallahassee is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the youthful city of Tallahassee. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tallahassee has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Tallahassee. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Tallahassee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hilton Head Island or Tallahassee?

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

  • Tallahassee Prices
    USA Prices
    Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tallahassee $190
    Hilton Head Island $287

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $190, 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 Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Hilton Head Island $129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Hilton Head Island $258
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Hilton Head Island $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Prices for flights to both Hilton Head Island and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $82
    Hilton Head Island $105

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: $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Hilton Head Island $23

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $108
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $215
  • Treacherous Tallahassee Ghost Tours: $24

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:

  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin and Nature Tour: $300
  • 2 Hour Kayak Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $47
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise: $269
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $47
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • 90-Minute Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head: $47
  • 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island : $269
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours : $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Hilton Head Island $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallahassee

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tallahassee:

  • Tallahassee Bar Crawl: $15

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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island?

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 Tallahassee or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Hilton Head Island. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hilton Head Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Hilton Head Island. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallahassee in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In the autumn, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C)

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

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

In January, Tallahassee is generally a little warmer than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 51°F (11°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during winter. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C)

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Tallahassee during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. In the spring, Tallahassee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Hilton Head Island. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Hilton Head Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)