A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii, 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 southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is known for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Beaufort. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Evening events are decent in both Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii.

Most people don't head to Beaufort specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Big Island of Hawaii specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beache.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in the world. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Beaufort. 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.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.


Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for romance. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities 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.

Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

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


Is Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Big Island of Hawaii

Beaufort is a great town for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable town. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Beaufort because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

The beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Beaufort for five days. Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. This island 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, Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii is $250. 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 Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii? 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 Big Island of Hawaii


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 Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii 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
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

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 -
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Beaufort is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Beaufort is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Beaufort is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Beaufort

Beaufort Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)