A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Arlington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Beaufort or Arlington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Arlington, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a historic, character-filled, and southern town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Arlington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Arlington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Arlington is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Arlington is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Beaufort different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Arlington?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Arlington can be an interesting and educational experience. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Arlington

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Beaufort and Arlington.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Arlington has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Arlington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Arlington

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Arlington is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Arlington

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Arlington?

Beaufort
Arlington

Both Beaufort and Arlington are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arlington. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Families?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Arlington is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Arlington

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Beaufort makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Students?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Arlington is a great city to visit as a student. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


Is Beaufort or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Arlington

Arlington is renowned for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Arlington has a great public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Beaufort or Arlington a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Arlington

Beaufort and Arlington both are superb when exploring on foot.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Arlington is a very walkable town. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Arlington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Beaufort 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Arlington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Arlington 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Arlington?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Arlington offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Beaufort or Arlington?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Arlington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arlington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Arlington?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Arlington?

Beaufort is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Arlington is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Arlington or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Arlington is $264. 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 Beaufort and Arlington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Arlington $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Arlington $262
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Arlington

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Arlington? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Arlington


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Arlington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Arlington $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

Also for Arlington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Arlington?

Prices for flights to both Arlington and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Arlington $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Arlington $11

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Arlington $17


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Arlington?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Arlington, 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 Beaufort or Arlington?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beaufort or Arlington in the Summer?

Both Arlington and Beaufort during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Arlington. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the summer, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Arlington. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Arlington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Arlington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Arlington. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Arlington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Arlington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Arlington 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Arlington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Arlington. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Arlington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Arlington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in January than Arlington. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Arlington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Arlington in the Spring?

Both Arlington and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Arlington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Arlington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Arlington and Beaufort

Beaufort Arlington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)