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

Should you visit Washington or Hilton Head Island?

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 Washington and Hilton Head Island can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Washington travel costs.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a peaceful, beautiful, and resort-filled coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Washington and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Hilton Head Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hilton Head Island is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Hilton Head Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

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

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

Washington is terrific for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilton Head Island makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Music?

Washington is very good for its music scene. However, Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hilton Head Island. 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is great for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington 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 Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Hilton Head Island More Beautiful?

Washington is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

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 Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

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

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington or Hilton Head Island Better for Students?

Washington is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Washington can take you anywhere. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Washington is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very 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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Both Washington and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Washington than Hilton Head Island. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

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

One day in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and food around the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington is a popular place to visit. Washington is a international city where you can fill many days. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Hilton Head Island, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer.

Hilton Head Island, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington 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 Washington.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Hilton Head Island?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Hilton Head Island. The summer months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), 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 Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Washington gets 278 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. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Hilton Head Island. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Washington is cooler than Hilton Head Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. In the autumn, Washington often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Hilton Head Island during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Hilton Head Island and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Washington in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Washington is generally cooler than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), 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 Washington. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hilton Head Island. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Washington