Please compare Hilton Head with Vero Beach

sters

<font color=red>Enjoys visiting resorts at WDW<br>
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May 24, 2003
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I'm learning that there are two beach resorts in the DVC. Would the veterans please compare the two for me? I'm primarily concerned with beach access, pools, and on-site recreation for kids. And.. well, everything! (I started out trying to decide between OKW and BCV and now I've narrowed it down to... 5 resorts. Hmmm.)
 
OK, I'll share a couple of points. HH has a separate beach house that is on the ocean beach. It's about 2 miles from the villas and has a nice pool, snack bar, changing rooms, airconditioned lobby. There is a shuttle bus from the beach house/beach front area to the resort area which also has a pool. I'd recommend comparing the resort layouts for each resort to help compare. The resort area with the rooms and villas is on it's own little island attached to HH by a bridge surrounded by ocean waterway. If you own a boat, you can dock your boat at the resort. Although there are no restaraunts onsite, there are a couple of restraunts right across the bridge (easy walk).

HH is a nice resort island with lots of activities. Beach is very wide and solid enough to ride bikes along the beach. There are other recreational activities offsite like golf, restaraunts, etc. A seach on HH will tell you more. Weather is a factor and the season you will be travelling. My opinion is that HH is more of a summertime resort since it is cooler in the winter. Reservations are harder to get in the summer, because owners get first choice and are more likely to pick summer vacation times. 1 and 2 bedroom villas at both HH and Vero are larger than BWV, BCV, WLV.

Vero beach is directly on the ocean with walk on access to it's own beach area. The beach is much more narrow than the wide HH beach, and doesn't afford the ability to ride bikes along the beach. It has one pool area, two restaraunts on site and an onsite lounge with live entertainment almost every night. Vero is more of an upscale condo, retirement community than recreation area, there are not many hotels close to the resort. The condos on either side are very expensive. (HH has expensive condos too, just more hotels and more summer recreation). The season is different at Vero, with popular spring break and christmas seasons taking advantage of the warmer Florida weather.

I think the resort activities at both resorts with game rooms and planned activities are pretty similar, except for Vero's Green Cabin room lounge in the evenings (the most kid friendly bar with live music we've ever visited). I believe both have community halls and kids activities. Tennis at Vero, I don't know about HH? Putt putt at Vero in pool area, I don't know about HH? Biek rentals at both places, but HH is going to have many more recreational places to be able to bike to than Vero. HH has lots of bike paths. Shopping probably similar, both have outlet malls within 20 minutes. Vero has room service, I don't think HH does. HH has a mall that is almost within walking distance I believe (might be wrong on that, been a while) If it's not a mall it is a nice shopping area. It's also not a big mall. I think the size of the resorts is similar. There is also nice golf near Vero, but I think HH is more know for golf. I also think neither Vero or HH is convenient to fly into, but we don't fly so others can share those experiences.

I should probably tell you my bias, I'm a Vero owner. We wanted to be able to vacation in the winter months to someplace warm, and we liked being directly on the beach. We tend to run up the the room now and then. We've also had nice success with a part WDW and part beach vacation, so Vero lends itself to that nicely. We don't seem to get much rest at WDW, it's go, go, go for us while we are there, so the relaxing beach time is really a nice combination. Others might be board if they are not beach people. Vero is 2 hours from WDW, I believe HH is 5.5 hours. Well, that'll get the comparison started. Good luck with your decision. One option you could consider, depending on the number of points, is to split your points between two resorts.
 
I've been to Hilton Head 4 times and Vero Beach twice. I live 2 hours from HH so that's why we've been there more often (and we're going over NYE in a month...) Both are terrific resorts but if I had to choose - it would be Vero - we're probably doing an add on there...but I really love both. I guess since I live in the "lowcountry", I appreciate more of a change of scenery with Vero. The activities at both are great. If you golf - I'd say HH. I love the restaurants around Hilton Head. I tend to never leave Vero when we're there. We spent July 4th at HH and it was great. Spring Break at Vero was great - you really can't go wrong at either! The slide at Vero is bigger than at HH...and having the beach right there is beautiful - but I think the marsh environment at HH is also beautiful. I've now been to all the DVC resorts and I think all of them are great! The weather at Vero is probably better more consistently...Good luck with your decision!
 
Desperado and KLR-wlv gave excellent comparisons on both resorts.

If you are flying into HH, Savanah airport is about 50 mintes away from HH. For VB if you are flying, it is 96 miles(90 minutes) from Orlando airport. You can also fly into Melbourne airport or West Palm Beach. Orlando(MCO) airport will probably give you the largest selection of flights.

Both resorts are 1st class and very relaxing and non-commando type of vacations. :D We are also kind of partial to VB because of being right on the ocean.
 

We own at both Vero and HH. Been to HH approx 10 times and Vero twice. Only go to Vero when we have an early spring break so we can catch some spring training major league ball games. Seems to me that there's more to do at HH. I got the impression that they roll the streets up in Vero at 6PM. IMHO the Beach is much nicer in HH, one in Vero was so narrow while we were there that during high tide you couldn't even walk the beach let alone ride a bike, the tide was coming up to the dunes. The putt putt on Vero is on site but only challenging for little kids. HH has much more challenging and entertaining putt putt. We normally drive to the HH beach house and park, never taken the shuttle.
 
I would agree with Desperado's assessment.
My DS's (3 and 5) liked both resorts. We noticed we didn't have to walk as far to the "resort" pool (I distinguished that since HH also has the pool near the beach) at Vero, so my DS's loved that. It seems as though, at Vero, they were distracted by the awesome weather and nice pool enough that they weren't as involved in the children's activities.

Don't misunderstand me, I loved HH.

To me, if I had to describe the "feel" of the resorts.......... When I think of how Vero "felt", I get a "perma"-grin on my face. When I think of HH, I feel as though I just got a big hug from a long lost friend.

Of the 2, which are we going to next? HH, but only because Vero was our most recent trip.

Dave
 
I'll also agree with the general comments made about the two resorts. The biggest physical difference to me, is that VB is on the ocean and HH is 1 mile away.

HH has no onsite full service restaurant (VB has two). VB has a nice lounge (HH has none). VB weather will be more pleasant during the winter months. HH's "season" is from mid-March thru mid-November (although there are nice days in Nov, Dec, Jan and Feb and Mar).

My bias is that I own at HH and have been going to the area for over 20 years.

The HH resort sits on a private island in Broad Creek- a tidal inlet that is home to dolphin, manatee and river otter (all visible- at times- right from your balcony at the resort). The resort is very compact, so no rooms are more than about 300 yards from the pool. There are 6 full service restaurants ranging from 100- 400 yards from the resort across the access bridge. These are situated in Shelter Cove- a small shopping area with many boutique-type shops. Also within walking distance is the Shelter Cove Mall with stores, shops and more dining options.

The resort does provide shuttle service to the beach house, but biking is an easy way to get there and walking is safely managed (just a mile from the resort). The HH beach is wonderful- nice wide beach- with lifeguards in season, rental of beach umbrellas and beach bikes is available. It's a Beautiful white sandy beach with shells and sand dollars to find. It has a very gradual drop-off and has significant change between tides.

There are some great tours available right from the resort (Dolphin tours are the best) and canoeing, kayaking, shelling, horseback riding and nature programs all available thru the recreation staff.

There is no tennis court at the resort, but nearby Palmetto Dunes (on the way to the beach house) has an arrangement with the resort. There are many choices for golfing.

HH has miles of paved bike trails and bikes can be rented right at the resort.

Both are great resorts and have lots to offer. This is truly a no-lose situation where no bad choice is available.

Enjoy!
 
I have to jump in here and say how much I am enjoying these comparisons! I've always wondered the same question (having only been to HH--and loving it).

The first "reply" post was so well done I couldn't even tell where they owned until they came out and said it. Thanks for such great descriptions!

Laura
 
Yes. thank you again for your imput and suggestions! It all sounds perfectly lovely... especially with the forecast of 1-3 inches of snow here in New Jersey! The Jersey shore is great, but has gotten so darned expensive that the Hilton Head/Vero Beach options sounded reasonable. I wouldn't necessarily have to decide between beach or WDW with the DVC!!!!

I didnt' realize that the beach was so far away from the Hilton Head resort, although the beach house sounds like a nice compromise. Is there a snack bar there? And, how often do the shuttles run between the beach and the resort?

I'm not at all interested in golf, except for the minature variety. The bike rentals sounded wonderful, especially since you can ride them on the beach. Originally, I was thinking of stopping here for an overnight or two on my way to WDW, but it sounds like a great destination on its own.

I think I saw on another post that the dues were less at Hilton Head, so that was another consideration too.

Again, thank you!
 
Even though the HH resort has no full service restaurant, they do have a real chef as part of the recreation staff.

One of Gordon's responsibilities is "A Private Affair". It is a private gourmet dining experience provided at the Beach House (after the snack bar closes) with a gorgeous view of the Atlantic Ocean as the setting for the meal which is prepared tableside.

Guests can select from Gordon's suggestions or request anything they'd enjoy. The meal comes complete with appetizers, main course and dessert and wine pairings are included. The cost is $150 for the first three guests and $50 each for additional diners.

The suggested menu is typically "low-country" cuisine, but Gordon can create the meal to your liking. You are also welcome to join in the preparation, if desired, and recipes can be provided for any and all components of the experience.

It is truly the best kept secret of DVC. The ONLY problem with the proghram is that there is one seating each night it's offered, so few can experience the event. Advance reservations are suggested- you can call the resort for information and menus.

We've enjoyed this on our last three trips and it's become a tradition for us.

Enjoy!
 
Is it true that they have a resident dog at HH?! That appealed to me! Also, which months would you say are the best to go, and does anyone have any photos from their trips?!
 
Shadow is indeed the resort mascot. Each week, there is a program called Shadow's Tales- offering stories of the playful pup. Shadow's doghouse sits right outside the check-in area.

The resort has lots to offer year round. If you want to be able to swim in the ocean, May-Oct stays would be best.

<a href="http://disneydoc.homestead.com/hh.html">HH Photos</a>

<img src="http://disneydoc.homestead.com/files/Shadow_marsh2.jpg"><img width="350" src="http://disneydoc.homestead.com/files/Shadow_pet.jpg">

Enjoy!
 
Originally posted by sters
I think I saw on another post that the dues were less at Hilton Head, so that was another consideration too.


Please don't let the dues weigh too heavily on your decision. You never know how they may change between now and 2042. The best advice is to buy where you plan to stay. I don't know how many points you are considering purchasing, but if you're truly undecided, you might be able to buy at more than one resort. Since both HH and Vero have their "high" seasons, it's almost a necessity to own points there if that's when you want to go.

I think the answers you got on this thread about HH and Vero are about as good a comparison as you will find! Good luck on making your decision.
 
We have been to Hilton Head 3 times, all over Easter vacation, and to Vero once during Christmas vacation and 5-6 other times during the summer.

Vero: 2 day drive from NY
Hilton Head: Long 1 day drive from NY

Vero: Lush tropical landscaping
Hilton Head: Low country landscaping, live oaks , more temperate forest with some palmettos mixed in

Vero: Right on the beach
Hilton Head: Beach house 5 minute drive away

Vero: Large, often busy pool, lounges often all full
Hilton Head: 2 pools, one at resort, one at the beach house

Vero: Very relaxing!!! Can get there and never leave the resort if you are so inclined.
Hilton Head: Very relaxing, but do have to drive to get to beach

Vero: Easter often in low 80's
Hilton Head: Easter often in low 70's

Vero: heated pool
Hilton Head: 2 heated pools (one at resort, one at Beach House)

Vero: Easier to fly into Orlando from northeast
Hilton Head: Harder to fly into Savannah from Northeast

Vero: More discount fares to Orlando or West Palm Beach
Hilton Head: Fewer discount fares to Savannah

Vero: Full size Pizza pick up at snack bar, can order 1-2, bring back to room for an inexpensive dinner
Hilton Head: No pizza pick up at snack bar

Vero: Local beach nearby, a 5 minute walk -- convenience store (non-Disney prices), downside is sometimes locals try to use the Disney pool.
Hilton Head: No convenience stores near the beach, bring a cooler!

Vero: Grocery store (Publix) over bridge on mainland on Route 1, a 13 minute ride.
Hilton Head: grocery store three lights away from the resort (Piggly-Wiggly)

Vero: Fewer restaurant choices, unless drive 15 minutes into town
Hilton Head: Many more restaurant choices, many within walking distance

Vero: Good restaurants on site (Shutters, moderate, Sonya's, expensive)
Hilton Head: Only snacks on site, restaurants a short walk away (pleasant in spring, may not be so in a humid summer).

Vero: Beach is fairly quiet, other condos a distance away, as is town beach
Hilton Head: Beach is very busy, kids zipping around on bikes, lots of activity as there are condos all around the Beach House

Vero: Beach ideal for a quiet walk
Hilton Head: Not the best beach for a quiet walk during spring/summer


Vero: Sand similar to that in NY, NJ Atlantic beaches
Hilton Head: Harder packed, denser, almost muddy sand, a bit darker than that on northern Atlantic beaches but not objectionable!

We love both resorts. On our last trip to Hilton Head we were overlooking the tidal marsh and saw dolphins jumping out of the water. It was very tranquil and beautiful. Weather at Easter can be a bit chilly. We lucked out last year and are hoping for luck in 2004!

The lush tropical beauty of Vero, the open design of the buildings, the huge main building and being right on the beach are all spectacular. The narrow beach doesn't bother us. We have had wonderful moments at Vero. Last Christmas we were there for 5 wonderful days, temps in high 70's, warm Ocean, golden sunshine. We also were on the porch at the Green Cabin Room, sipping drinks on a steamy July night watching lightning explode over the ocean.

So, both resorts are terrific. I'd look at the time of year you are going, if the driving/flying arrangements make a difference and then go and enjoy yourself!
 
Where can I find out which activities have fees and how much they are? We are thinking of going during our Spring break and saw the Dolphin and other activities that we would love. Just wondering how much they are.
 
I'd call the resort and ask what activities are being offered, whether they are seasonal and what the prices are. The main desk is probably fairly quiet about 2-3 PM so that might be a good time to call.

If you have a fax at your office they might be willing to fax you a copy of the weekly activity listing.

Also, I'd ask how far in advance you can make reservations. You might want to book some activities well in advance, though there is always the risk of the weather not cooperating.
 
We have been to HH a few times. We live in NJ and usually drive to WDW stopping at HH on the way there and back. Last year we actually stayed an extra day on the way home because we were having so much fun! We have only been to Vero once but also loved it there. The beach there was rough and very, very narrow. but we had a blast anyway and the kids loved the pool! I live right off of LBI in NJ and was quite surprised when I saw the narrow beach-it's really narrow. (I was also told it was shark infested, not sure if that is just a rumor). HH is my favorite, don't let the distance to the beach house discourage you. The resort is still waterfront and there are some beautiful views of the salt marshes. I would go to either resort in a heartbeat!
 
















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