A Travel Price Comparison for South Carolina Beaufort vs. Charleston for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Beaufort or Charleston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Charleston, 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 charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Beaufort and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beaufort or Charleston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Beaufort is more popular for its small town charm. Charleston is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Beaufort and Charleston have notable 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.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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

Charleston is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Beaufort or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.

Is Beaufort or Charleston Better for Resorts?

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

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Beaufort or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston 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 Charleston. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

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 Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Beaufort is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Charleston?

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Beaufort or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Beaufort does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Beaufort does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Beaufort or Charleston Better for Families?

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

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

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 Charleston Better for Couples?

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

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Charleston is a moderate coastal town 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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

Is Beaufort or Charleston a more walkable city?

Beaufort and Charleston 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.

Charleston is a very walkable town. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Charleston?

Both Beaufort and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Beaufort. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.

One day in Beaufort or Charleston?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Charleston?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Charleston?

Beaufort, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Beaufort is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. This coastal town 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. It's quite rainy in Beaufort. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Charleston. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston and Beaufort during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beaufort is around the same temperature as Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charleston. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Charleston. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Beaufort is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Charleston. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charleston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Charleston. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the spring, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charleston. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Beaufort