A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beaufort vs. Hope for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Hope?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Hope, 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.

Hope

Hope is a small, friendly, and local town. It's also known for hiking.

Beaufort and Hope: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Hope?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Beaufort and Hope are both popular with visitors, Beaufort has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaufort is more popular for its museums & sights, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hope is known for its hiking. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also home to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Hope is popular for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

How is Beaufort different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is very good for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.


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

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Beaufort or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Hope

Evening events are decent in both Beaufort and Hope.

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 Hope. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.

Is Beaufort or Hope Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is very good for its beaches. However, Hope is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. 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.

Hope is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Hope Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town. However, Hope does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Hope does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Hope Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Hope

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

Hope is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Hope?

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is very good for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.


Is Beaufort or Hope Better for Families?

Beaufort
Hope

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

Hope is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

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 Hope Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort and Hope are both excellent 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.

Hope makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.

Is Beaufort or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Hope

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hope. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

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

Beaufort
Hope

Neither Beaufort or Hope offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Beaufort or Hope a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Hope

Beaufort is a great town for its walkability. However, Hope 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.

Hope is generally not very walkable. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.

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

Should I spend more time in Hope or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Hope?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Hope. 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 Beaufort than Hope 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 Beaufort.


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

One day in Beaufort or Hope?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The town of Hope offers . 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 Hope?

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hope 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 Hope, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Hope?

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hope 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 Hope?

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Hope 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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Hope 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 Hope is $31. 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 Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Hope $9.02
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Hope $18
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Hope? 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 Hope


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 Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Hope -

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope 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
    Hope $22

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Hope -

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 Hope

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

  • Bay of Fundy: Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $6.24
  • Vancouver to Sun Peaks 2 days outdoor adventure tour: $1,250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Hope $10


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Hope?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hope. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Hope, 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 Hope?

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 Hope in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Hope. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hope because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Beaufort is much warmer than Hope in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hope fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Hope. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Hope 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

In the autumn, Beaufort is much warmer than Hope. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Hope averages at about 10°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hope. In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Hope. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hope in the Winter?

Both Hope and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hope for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hope. In January, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Hope. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Hope in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Hope. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Beaufort is much warmer than Hope in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Hope fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Hope. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Beaufort

Beaufort Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)