A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Duck vs. Beaufort for Beaches, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Duck or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Duck 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.

Duck

Duck is a compact, charming, and laid-back beach town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Duck and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Duck or Beaufort?

Both Beaufort and Duck have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Duck is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Duck is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Duck different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Duck or Beaufort?

Duck
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.


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

Duck
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Duck or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Duck
Beaufort

Both Duck and Beaufort are decent when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Duck specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

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 Duck or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Duck
Beaufort

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

Duck has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Duck or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Duck
Beaufort

Duck is renowned for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beache.

The beaches in Duck are among the best in the world. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

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 Duck or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Duck
Beaufort

Beaufort is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Duck 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.

Duck does not have a historic old town.

Is Duck or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Duck
Beaufort

Duck is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Duck has hiking trails worth exploring. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Beaufort?

Duck
Beaufort

Duck is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Duck is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Duck or Beaufort Better for Families?

Duck
Beaufort

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

Duck is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

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 Duck or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Duck
Beaufort

With fun activities for couples, both Duck and Beaufort make for a very good place to visit.

Duck is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Beaufort makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Duck or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Duck
Beaufort

Duck is a moderate beach town for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

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

Is Duck or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Duck
Beaufort

Duck is renowned for its walkability. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Duck on foot. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Duck?

How long in Duck or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Duck and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Duck than in Beaufort. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Duck, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Duck 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 Duck.


  • How many days in Duck or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Duck 5-7 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Duck or Beaufort?

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the small town destination of Beaufort. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Duck or Beaufort?

Duck is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Duck or Beaufort?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic small town of Beaufort. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Duck or Beaufort?

Duck is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Duck has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

The character-filled town of Beaufort offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Duck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $188, 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 Duck and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Duck and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Duck 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 Duck


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.
    Duck $66
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Duck or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Duck 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
    Duck $45
    Beaufort $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Duck $13
    Beaufort -

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
    Duck $45
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Duck or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck 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 Duck 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 Duck or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Duck for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, 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.

Duck is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Duck. Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Duck gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. It's quite rainy in Duck. In July, Duck usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Duck 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
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Duck or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Duck during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Duck in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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 the autumn, Duck is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Duck in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Duck. In the autumn, Duck often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Duck gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Duck or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and Beaufort. Most visitors come to Duck 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.

Duck can be very cold during winter. In January, Duck is generally much colder than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 41°F (5°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during winter. Duck gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Duck usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Duck or Beaufort in the Spring?

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

Duck is cooler than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. In the spring, Duck often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Duck gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Duck

Duck Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)