A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Berkeley vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Beaver Creek, 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. Other popular activities here include skiing, food, and hiking.

Berkeley and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Berkeley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, resorts, and hiking, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Berkeley and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Berkeley different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaver Creek and Berkeley. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for snow skiing. However, Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Berkeley is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a great city for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Berkeley or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Berkeley and Beaver Creek.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Berkeley has something for everybody. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a great city for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.


Is Berkeley or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Beaver Creek

Berkeley and Beaver Creek both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Beaver Creek. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Both Berkeley and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Berkeley. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Berkeley, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Beaver Creek 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Berkeley or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berkeley 2-3 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this progressive city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The town of Beaver Creek offers skiing and food. 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 Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. 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.

Beaver Creek 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 Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive destination of Berkeley. 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.

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

A week in Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. 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.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing 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 Beaver Creek has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Berkeley?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Berkeley is $190, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Berkeley and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley or Beaver Creek? 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 Berkeley


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Berkeley or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36
    Beaver Creek $85
Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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