A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Beaufort for Attractions, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Beaufort, 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.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a fascinating, wonder-filled, and unique town. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Cape Canaveral and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Cape Canaveral, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Canaveral is more popular for its museums and resorts. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Cape Canaveral is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cape Canaveral that are not to be missed. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Is Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find respectable options in both Cape Canaveral and Beaufort.

Cape Canaveral doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Most people don't head to Beaufort specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Cape Canaveral has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Both Cape Canaveral and Beaufort have notable beaches worth visiting.

Cape Canaveral has a beach worth visiting. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

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 Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Canaveral 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.

Cape Canaveral does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Beaufort both offer plenty of notable spots.

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

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


Is Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

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

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

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 Cape Canaveral or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Cape Canaveral and Beaufort are both superb to visit as a couple.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

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.

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

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Neither Cape Canaveral or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

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


Is Cape Canaveral or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

The town of Cape Canaveral offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Cape Canaveral 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Canaveral, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Cape Canaveral is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Cape Canaveral?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $220, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Cape Canaveral and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Beaufort? 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 Cape Canaveral


Hotels in Beaufort


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Round Trip NASA Space Center/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Van Transfer from Port Canaveral,Cocoa Beach to MCO: $70
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $84
  • One Way MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $85
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $113
  • Orlando Airport to/from Port Canaveral Sedan Transfer up to 3 pax: $145
  • Round Trip MCO Orlando Airport/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $170
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $195
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $216
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $232
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Sand Lake: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $43
    Beaufort $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Port Canaveral Food Tours : $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Canaveral.

  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Victory Cruises Casino Luxury Transportation: $75
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Beaufort, 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 Cape Canaveral or Beaufort?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Cape Canaveral during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the summer, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Canaveral in July average around 80°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Beaufort. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Beaufort. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cape Canaveral is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 74°F (24°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Cape Canaveral gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Beaufort. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Beaufort in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Canaveral in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In April, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)