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

Should you visit Beaufort or Zion National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Zion National Park, 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 character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Beaufort and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Beaufort and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Zion National Park is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Beaufort is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is well known for its historic old town. However, Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. 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.

Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

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

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

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 Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort and Zion National Park are both superb 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.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.


Is Beaufort or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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 Zion National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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

Is Beaufort or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Zion National Park

Beaufort is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly 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.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Both Beaufort and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Beaufort. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful park of Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park?

Beaufort is a popular place to visit. Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Beaufort is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zion National Park has to offer. This park 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, Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park is $119. 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Zion National Park? 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 Zion National Park


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 Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Zion National Park $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park 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
    Zion National Park $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Zion National Park $26

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 Zion National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Zion National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $19
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $49
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $69
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $98
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV and Hiking Adventure: $99
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $109
  • UTV Dune Cruise and Surf at Coral Pink Sand Dunes: $114
  • Via Ferrata / Rappel Adventure in East Zion: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Zion National Park $8.28


When comparing the travel costs between Beaufort and Zion National Park, we can see that Beaufort 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 Zion National Park Expensive?.