A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Santa Monica for Beaches, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beaufort or Santa Monica?

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

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

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaufort and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Beaufort and Santa Monica are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Santa Monica is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Beaufort and Santa Monica have nice 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.

Santa Monica offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

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

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

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.

Santa Monica has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Beaufort or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Santa Monica has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town 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 Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is renowned for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beache.

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

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 Santa Monica Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is notable for its old town. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

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

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

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 Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Beaufort and Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Is Beaufort or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Monica is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Beaufort is not a good place to visit for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

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

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Beaufort or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Beaufort and Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is a very walkable town. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Santa Monica. In our opinion, Santa Monica has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santa Monica than Beaufort. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica.

One day in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

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 town of Santa Monica offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

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.

Santa Monica 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Monica, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Santa Monica?

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.

Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches 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 Santa Monica?

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.

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica in the Summer?

Both Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Beaufort is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

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

Should I visit Beaufort or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the shopping scene.

In October, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Beaufort usually gets more rain in October than Santa Monica. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Santa Monica in the Winter?

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

Beaufort is much colder than Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beaufort or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica for the beaches.

In the spring, Beaufort is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Beaufort usually gets more rain in April than Santa Monica. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Beaufort