A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Hood River for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Hood River?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Hood River, 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hood River

Hood River is a charming, agricultural, and quaint town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Beaufort and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hood River. Although Beaufort and Hood River are popular destinations, Hood River has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hood River is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its museums & sights, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Hood River is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. It is also well known for Multnomah Falls. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Beaufort
Hood River

Hood River is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Beaufort is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Hood River?

Beaufort
Hood River

Beaufort is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Beaufort
Hood River

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Beaufort and Hood River.

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.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

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 Hood River Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Hood River

Beaufort is a popular place for the beache. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Hood River

Beaufort is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Hood River

Hood River is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Hood River is a popular spot for hiking. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Hood River?

Beaufort
Hood River

Both Beaufort and Hood River are nice 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 Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for Families?

Beaufort
Hood River

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

Hood River is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

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 Hood River Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Hood River

Beaufort and Hood River are both very good 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.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.


Is Beaufort or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Hood River

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Hood River

Hood River is a moderate 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 Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

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

Is Beaufort or Hood River a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Hood River

Beaufort is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.


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

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Hood River. In our opinion, Hood River has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hood River than Beaufort. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River 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 Hood River.


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

One day in Beaufort or Hood River?

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 town of Hood River offers nightlife and food. 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 Hood River?

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.

Hood River 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hood River, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Hood River?

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.

Hood River 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 Hood River?

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.

Hood River is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River 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 Hood River is $145. 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 Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Hood River? 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 Hood River


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 Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Hood River $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River 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
    Hood River $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Hood River $18

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
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Orchard Tour: $31
  • Gift Basket Factory Tour: $31
  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $199
  • Railbikes Experience: $211

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Hood River $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Hood River

Also in Hood River, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hood River Premium Wine Tour: $600


When comparing the travel costs between Beaufort and Hood River, we can see that Hood River is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Hood River?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Hood River, 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Beaufort during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Beaufort is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Hood River averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Hood River. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Hood River 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Hood River. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Hood River because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hood River. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Hood River 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Hood River. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hood River in the winter. Beaufort is much warmer than Hood River in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hood River. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Hood River 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hood River for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Beaufort is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Hood River averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Hood River. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Hood River 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Hood River and Beaufort

Beaufort Hood River
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)