A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Beaufort for Nightlife, Food, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Beaufort? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a fun, party-hard, and energetic beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and beaches.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Daytona Beach and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Daytona Beach is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Also, Daytona Beach is famous for The Daytona International Speedway. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Daytona Beach different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Beaufort. 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.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Daytona Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Daytona Beach is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Daytona Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Daytona Beach active and fun. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Daytona Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Daytona Beach and Beaufort are notable choices.

Daytona Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. 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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Daytona Beach 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.

Daytona Beach does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to go shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Most people don't think of either Daytona Beach or Beaufort as a family destination.

Daytona Beach is not the most family-friendly destination. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

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.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Daytona Beach is renowned for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a great destination for students. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Neither Daytona Beach or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

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

Is Daytona Beach or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

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

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.


For even more information, also check out Is Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Daytona Beach and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaufort than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Daytona Beach. 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 Beaufort than Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

The beach city of Daytona Beach offers live music and nightlife. 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.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. A weekend 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife 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.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 beach city offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Daytona Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $211, 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 Daytona Beach and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $185
  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $200
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Daytona Beach 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
    Daytona Beach $80
    Beaufort $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

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

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

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

  • St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park : $28
  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $32
  • The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour: $40
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Kayak and SUP Adventure Tour: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Ormond Beach Manatee and Nature Tour Kayaking or Paddle Boarding: $65
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Coastal Discovery Cruise: $75

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

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

  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $38
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach: $40


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


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort?

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 Daytona Beach or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Daytona Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Daytona Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Daytona Beach is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Beaufort. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Beaufort. The spring months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the spring, Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Daytona Beach in April average around 69°F (21°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in April than Beaufort. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)