Hilton Head and St Simons Island are two small islands off the coast of Georgia. Both offer residents some of the best views in the state, but what exactly makes these islands so special?
It all comes down to their locations. Choosing Hilton Head or St Simons Island to vacation may be difficult. While both are popular tourist destinations, they differ in terms of amenities and location.
So, which is better when traveling to Hilton head vs st Simons island? This article will help you decide which is better for your vacationing needs.
Hilton Head is a beautiful island located in South Carolina, while St Simons Island is a smaller and quieter island located off the coast of Georgia. Both islands have their own unique attractions that are sure to please visitors, but which one is better? Let’s take a look at some of the key differences to see which island is better for you.
If you’re looking for a luxury getaway, you’ll definitely want to check out Hilton Head Island and St. Simons Island! These two beautiful islands offer a variety of activities and attractions that will have you spending plenty of time outdoors. From mountains to beaches, there’s something for everyone on these islands!
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is the second largest of the barrier islands that make up South Carolina. Hilton Head consists of four barrier islands, which are to be found at different points along the coast and all have their own characteristics:
Palmetto Dunes National Park stretches over a rough 3 km stretch between Captains Quarters Beach Road south to Long Bay; Hilton Head Plantation Pines, Ocean Drive, Cumberland Gables end in front near Gap Creek.
Life on an island lifestyle affords many benefits including low cost-of-living as long as one’s income can cover vacation expenses. The island is known for its rich and stable cultural heritage that includes natural coastal environments, low humidity, nearby beaches, the Pee Dee River estuary in Long Bay to sustain a variety of sea life.
Hilton Head Hospital serves as the main hospital facility on Hilton Head Island providing medical services related to preventative care and emergency care within a 35 minute-drivetime radius.
Hilton Head’s population was estimated at 37 thousand by 2010.
St Simons Island
St Simons has an extensive housing market with luxury homes for less than $1 million abutting more modest neighborhoods of single-family houses for around $200,000. “St. Simons Island is a relatively large island with the third-highest residential property values in Georgia according to 2008 data on Realtor.com and 119th overall.”
The City of St Simons hosts its own municipal government responsible for law enforcement, public services (fire and EMS), planning/zoning, roads maintenance, etc.
A wide range of luxury homes is clustered near Palmetto Bay including 5-star golf resort residences atop coastal dunes by the oceanfront “Pointe” at high prices both new or well preserved Antebell
um-style plantation homes. Most residential properties include manicured lawns, tennis courts, and pool areas in addition to ocean views within the gated community of Windward Estates with a “sprawling clubhouse.”
Hilton Head vs St Simons Island
The climate and history of Hilton Head Island differ from St Simons Island, but many things link to make a community. Both islands are relatively small in size with the farthest point being 2 miles northwest according to Wikipedia.
The island is known for its natural coastal environments that include towns located on the coast while mountains surround much of it as well as low humidity which helps provide an increase in quality life expectancy when compared to metropolitan areas such as Atlanta or Charlotte due mostly in part due to Savannah River pollution/class levels reaching throughout Georgia and South Carolina.
Accommodation
The highest-priced listing on the island is a $6,995 ocean view listed in Hilton Head and St Simons while purchasing similar property would net around $1.3 million when it comes to the price difference between the two islands depending on where you live according to Realtor.com according to data collected from 2008 which has seen an increase over time.
Hilton Head vs Bullhead City
Food
Hilton Head Island and simons island are known for their high-quality dining options included at outdoor festivals, buffets, and catering.
Averaging around $16 but with prices as low as 11 according to the Pacific Dining Guide, a meal in Hilton Head may cost upwards of 10% more than in Bullhead City which supports healthier food selection ranging from frozen yogurt to fresh swimming crab.
Sports/Recreation
Many people choose to visit Hilton Head or St Simons Island for their in-door physical activities like tennis, golf, and cycling. Hilton’s head enjoys a year-round outside competition field where athletes can practice for free including the annual half marathon which attracts about 230 participants per race.
In contrast, Bullhead City only hosts outdoor recreation competitions that are annually hosted in December with around 15% of residents participating according to the NACOA website.
Local Transportation
Since Hilton Head’s and St Simons Island are secluded, the two islands have to rely on fixed-rail transit for transportation. However, each island uses a different service provider but own bikes can be rented from either coast or do see bicycles along the streets according to The Lowcountry Bicycle Coalition.
The county of Bullhead City has also declared official holidays for Labor Day (Memorial Day), Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve where city personnel works half mana hours during those days as an act of goodwill. All other weekdays include Monday through Friday full shifts with exceptions like weekends when offices are closed.
As for transportation, Hilton Head has sixteen bus routes, six trolley routes, and a boat system whereas Bullhead City only has five bus routes with service that operates from four different offices in the city limits as of May 2016.
However, one unique feature is their river shuttle which launched in July 2015 to connect Bus Stop 2 with Downtown Riverside Park according to the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum website .”
Overall Hilton Head’s distribution systems are more feasible than those of Bullhead City since they rely on fixed-rail transit or frequent ferry travel while all arrangements depend on users’ efforts alone by renting a bicycle or having personal vehicles.
Entertainment
The island of Hilton Head has numerous shopping areas and restaurants including Folly Field which is located close to the south end of Hilton Head Island whereas Bullhead City’s entertainment institutions are limited. For instance, there are two bookstores on Hilton Head with an abundant quantity in each city while only one store exists
on Bullhead City. There is also a music shop that stocks new and used vinyl as well as other instruments like guitars or ukuleles with prices below $10 according to its website. In addition, Water Street offers up-and-coming local musicians at their Friday morning jams where they showcase the night before their gigs on Saturday.
In addition, Hilton Head is subdivided into nine different towns while Bullhead City only consists of one town at the guts of the city. This way it increases attention to suburbs as it continues in a collective effort by using market-based solutions that disperse all company’s offices from CBD district instead of being co-located with each other according to The Business Times.
Cost
Hilton Head’s cost is much more expensive than simons island when it comes to housing and rent with an average price of $ 225,856. In addition, Hilton Head has higher prices for utilities like water ($3 per customer per month) while the same installment is only $1 to use in Bullhead City.
Hilton Head also hosts a few hotter-than-average spots that are difficult on younger children if their parents want them to be within walking distance from houses such as Gable House Tavern located close by at 400 Savannah Hwy with a not so lucrative standard drink item at $8 which is comparable to Bullhead City’s spots with a far less pricey drinks item at only $5.
Expansion
In regards to expansion, as of this year, Hilton Head has acquired 3, 007 jobs according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics while Bullhead City holds only 148 workers. In addition, they are simultaneously experiencing an 8-14% growth in sector area with that number being 1.3%.
However, it should be noted that these numbers do not include employees and owners working solo into their own companies outside the two cities’ boundaries but still within three state lines that include Hilton Head, Beaufort, and Bluffton.
What Are The Benefits Of Visiting Hilton Head VS. St Simons Island?
Since the late 2000s, with development by Shell Ocean Discovery and other drilling companies in all facets of energy exploration from oil, gas to solar power as well as offshore wind farms, drawing tourists have increased compared to four years prior.
With these new developments, Hilton Head gets more visitors every year than its neighbor St Simons Island that is another famed destination tourism spot on the east coast of Georgia just 32 miles (51 km) away.
Despite ranking 17th place within Airbnb’s Global Ranking of beaches (launched in summer 2016), it has scored 3rd highest number out of North America (SAP) hotels for all-time most area hosts (tying with California and New York).
In contrast, St Simons Island had a 4.8% unemployment rate in 2015-2016 that is notable lower than the national average of 7%.
The following suggestions have resulted from this information: Hilton Head has healthy approaches to developmental tourism such as by attracting ferry companies and cruise ships whereas St Sims only attracts a few ships on New Year’s Eve or while they are docked at Brunswick Port when dredging puts them temporarily out of business.
It would be more beneficial for Bullhead City not to focus solely on fishing due thus having less competition with other tourist activity hubs including Hilton Head.
Which One Should I Go To?
St. Simons is known as traditional seafood and restaurant-oriented island while Hilton Head takes the flavor of aquaculture, new version artistry in food (e.g., Halo Burger), fitness centers like Equinox with the only 5 diamonds resort rated out of 2 close islands nearby, golf courses some bike paths.
However according to many visitors has been found that the main attractions are on both islands which include water activities such as sailing boat tours or kayaking at Blue Rock Springs Nature Preserve but also hiking trails from Fripp Island State Park all way down to Bluffton Trailhead.
Where you can see the entire beautiful coastline established by three rivers connecting with an underwater waterfall, endemic Landscape plants have these types of flowers and herbs not found on other islands but maybe could be transported to Garden Club Islands.
Some consider St Simons beach is more suitable for surfing than Hilton Head beaches due often thrown in public places there are “Seaglider”-type motorized surfboards that aim a lot higher for smaller waves where some pull off tricks such as aerial maneuvers.
The Best U.S. Islands for Family Vacations
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best U.S. Islands for family vacations will vary depending on your family’s interests and budget. However, here are five of the most popular islands that are perfect for a summer getaway with the kids:
- Martha’s Vineyard – This island is known for its stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere. There are plenty of activities to keep the whole family busy, from swimming and sunbathing to fishing and kayaking.
- The Outer Banks – This chain of barrier islands is famous for its miles of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. There are plenty of attractions and activities available, from fishing to shopping and sightseeing.
- The Virgin Islands – This region is known for its clear Caribbean waters, luxurious resorts, and beautiful landscape. There are plenty of activities available, from snorkelling to golfing.
- Hawaii – This island chain is home to some of the most iconic tourist destinations in the US, including Waikiki Beach and Waikiki Grill. It’s also a great place to relax after a fun day exploring on foot or by bike.
- Puerto Rico – This Caribbean island is a great place to relax after a hectic day in the US mainland. It’s home to some beautiful beaches as well as world-renowned resorts such as Punta Cana and Rio Grande Beach Club.
Should I Visit Charleston or Hilton Head Island
There is no wrong answer when it comes to choosing which destination to visit, as each has its own unique attractions and benefits. However, if we had to recommend one over the other, we would recommend visiting Charleston. Here are some reasons why:
- Charleston is a historic city with plenty of cultural and historical attractions that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. From artist galleries to plantation homes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Charleston.
- The food scene in Charleston is second to none – from world-renowned restaurants to hole-in-the-wall joints, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when visiting the city.
- The weather in Charleston is perfect for all types of people – from beach lovers to snowbirds, there’s something for everyone when it comes to the weather in Charleston.
So, whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or want to explore some of the best food and entertainment in the Southeast, Charleston is a great option for anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation!
Conclusion
St Simons Island is a small island just off the coast of Georgia. It’s part of the Golden Isles and is known for its gorgeous beaches, pristine waters, and picturesque landscapes. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life in your hometown, this may be the perfect destination for you. I hope now you know which is better when traveling to Hilton head vs st Simons island.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ’s]
1. What Are Some Of The Things To Do On St Simons Island?
Ans:
- Visit a boat ramp on Highway 17 and try your hand at paddleboarding, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or parasailing an their paddle slides
- Visit the Blue Rock Springs Nature Preserve and bike alongside nature trails, then hike the trail down to Bluffton Trailhead.
- See the magnificent coastline on St Simons that’s been made by three rivers intersecting with an underwater waterfall, which starts at Stanley Henry Railroad Bridge
2. Is Hilton Head Or Jekyll Island Better?
Ans:
- St Simons is neither. The island has its own unique attributes, such as the local plant and animal life that are not found on other islands
- There’s no one “right” destination out there, it just depends on what you’re looking for in your vacation.
3. Can You Swim In The Ocean At St Simon’s Island?
Ans: -Yes! The water of the Atlantic is generally very clear, so you can see the coral reefs in just a few feet of water.
4. Is There A Place To Rent On St Simons Island?
Ans: There are multiple hotels in the area. In addition, most vacation rentals offer their properties for rent as well.
5. What Is The Climate Of St Simon’s Island?
Ans: The average high temperature during the summer months is 95 degrees Fahrenheit and low temperatures can be below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
