A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Beaufort or Palm Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Palm Springs, 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 gorgeous place to visit. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaufort and Palm Springs: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Beaufort and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Beaufort is known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Palm Springs is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Both Beaufort and Palm Springs have good 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.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.


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

Beaufort
Palm Springs

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Beaufort and Palm Springs.

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.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Beaufort or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is renowned for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Beaufort is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Palm Springs Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Beaufort is notable for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

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

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Palm Springs?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

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

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

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 Palm Springs Better for Families?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

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

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

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 Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Beaufort and Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.


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

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

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

Is Beaufort or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Palm Springs

Beaufort is notable for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Palm Springs due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Palm Springs?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

The city of Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs?

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palm Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Palm Springs?

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 Palm Springs?

Beaufort is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 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, Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs is $206. 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 Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Palm Springs? 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 Palm Springs


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 Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Palm Springs $29

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
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Palm Springs $13


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Palm Springs?

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

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 Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Palm Springs because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Beaufort. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Beaufort during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Palm Springs this time of year.

In the autumn, Beaufort is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

Beaufort usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Palm Springs. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Beaufort is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Beaufort usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Beaufort

Beaufort Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)