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

Should you visit Beaufort or Juneau?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Juneau, 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Beaufort and Juneau: 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 popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Beaufort and Juneau are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums & sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Juneau is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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.


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

Beaufort
Juneau

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

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.

Juneau has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Beaufort or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Juneau

Evening events are reasonable in both Beaufort and Juneau.

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 Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Beaufort or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Juneau

Beaufort is a popular place for the beache. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Juneau Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Juneau

Beaufort is a well-known place for its old town. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Juneau

Juneau is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Juneau?

Beaufort
Juneau

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

Juneau is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Beaufort
Juneau

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

Juneau is a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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 Juneau Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Juneau

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

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Juneau

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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

Beaufort
Juneau

Juneau is a moderate city 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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

Is Beaufort or Juneau a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Juneau

Beaufort and Juneau both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Juneau is a very walkable town. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Juneau?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Beaufort or Juneau?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful city of Juneau offers food 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 Juneau?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Juneau, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Juneau?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • 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
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $78
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour: $83
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $105
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $154

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Juneau $16


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Juneau?

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

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 Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Beaufort is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Beaufort. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Juneau. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Beaufort during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Juneau. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. Beaufort is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Juneau. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Juneau. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the spring, Beaufort is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the spring, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Beaufort

Beaufort Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)