A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Newport for Beaches, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Boca Raton or Newport?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Newport. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a posh, outdoorsy, and relaxed coastal city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Boca Raton and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Newport are popular destinations, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Newport attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Newport is more touristy than Boca Raton and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Boca Raton is famous for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also well known for Red Reef Park.

How is Boca Raton different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Newport?

Boca Raton
Newport

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Newport and Boca Raton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
Newport

Foodies will find both Boca Raton and Newport both to be high quality destinations.

Boca Raton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Boca Raton has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Boca Raton. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton is terrific for the beach. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Boca Raton is a very popular vacation destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Boca Raton
Newport

Newport is great for its historic old town charm. However, Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.


Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Boca Raton. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Newport?

Boca Raton
Newport

If you're looking to go shopping, Boca Raton and Newport both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Families?

Boca Raton
Newport

Both Boca Raton and Newport are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
Newport

Newport is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Boca Raton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Is Boca Raton or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
Newport

Boca Raton and Newport both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Boca Raton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Newport has a few public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Boca Raton or Newport a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
Newport

Newport is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Boca Raton is somewhat walkable. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.


For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Newport?

In either Boca Raton or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boca Raton has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Boca Raton than Newport. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Boca Raton 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Boca Raton or Newport?

In Boca Raton, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the coastal town of Newport, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Newport?

In Boca Raton, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Boca Raton or Newport?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boca Raton has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Boca Raton or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boca Raton. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Boca Raton. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Newport or Boca Raton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $283, while the average daily cost in Newport is $159. 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 Boca Raton and Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or Newport? 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 Boca Raton


Hotels in Newport


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: Boca Raton Hotel Prices and Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

Also for Boca Raton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115
  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Boynton Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Boca Raton to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)- Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Boca Raton Private Transfer to FLL (UP TO 14 PASS): $80
  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

Also for Newport, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport and Boca Raton 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
    Boca Raton $67
    Newport $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

For Boca Raton, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Boca Raton.

  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $160
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $150
  • Boca Raton-Delray Beach 1-Hour Private Jet Ski Guided Tour: $165
  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    Newport $14


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Newport?

Boca Raton has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Newport, 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 Boca Raton or Newport?

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 Boca Raton or Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Newport. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Boca Raton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Newport. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Newport. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the autumn, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Newport. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Newport. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Newport during winter. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Newport. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Boca Raton during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the spring, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Newport. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Newport. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Boca Raton

Boca Raton Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)