A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Cape Cod for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Beaufort or Cape Cod?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Cape Cod, 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Beaufort and Cape Cod: 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 family-friendly
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Cape Cod is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cape Cod is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. 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 Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Beaufort is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Beaufort. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Beaufort
Cape Cod

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Beaufort and Cape Cod.

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.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Beaufort or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Beaufort is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Beaufort doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Beaufort or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beache.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point 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 Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Beaufort is great for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. 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.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod has hiking trails worth exploring. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Cape Cod?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Cape Cod Better for Families?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Beaufort and Cape Cod are both great to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.


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

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a moderate beach destination 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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

Is Beaufort or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Cape Cod

Beaufort is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

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

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Cape Cod?

Both Beaufort and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Beaufort. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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


  • How many days in Beaufort or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Beaufort or Cape Cod?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful beach destination of Cape Cod offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Cape Cod?

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

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Cape Cod?

Beaufort 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.

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, 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 Cape Cod?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. This beach destination 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, Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod is $183. 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 Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Cape Cod? 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 Cape Cod


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Cape Cod $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Cape Cod $27

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

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Yoga and National Seashore with guided Hike Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Cape Cod $19


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



When is the best time to visit Beaufort or Cape Cod?

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 Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Beaufort is much warmer than Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Cape Cod can be very cold. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Cape Cod. The spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Beaufort

Beaufort Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)