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

Should you visit Islamorada or Beaufort?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada 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.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Islamorada and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Islamorada or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Islamorada is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Islamorada different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Islamorada
Beaufort

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Islamorada or Beaufort.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

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 Islamorada or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
Beaufort

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Islamorada and Beaufort.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Islamorada. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaufort. 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.

Is Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Beaufort

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

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 Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Beaufort

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

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Beaufort

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Beaufort

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Islamorada. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

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 Islamorada or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Islamorada
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Beaufort?

Islamorada
Beaufort

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Beaufort both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Beaufort offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Families?

Islamorada
Beaufort

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

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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 Islamorada or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Beaufort

Islamorada is renowned for romance. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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

Islamorada
Beaufort

Neither Islamorada or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

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

Is Islamorada or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Beaufort. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Islamorada or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Islamorada or Beaufort?

The beautiful village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Islamorada or Beaufort?

Islamorada 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.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Islamorada or Beaufort?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Beaufort?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. 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 Islamorada has to offer. This village offers something for everyone.

Beaufort 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Islamorada?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, 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 Islamorada and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada 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 Islamorada


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    Beaufort $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • Night Tour Glass Bottom Boat in Islamorada: $80
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • Snorkeling Adventure in Islamorada : $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure from Cheeca Spa: $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150

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
    Islamorada $15
    Beaufort -


When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and Beaufort, we can see that Islamorada is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, 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.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun.

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Beaufort. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada 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 the autumn, Islamorada is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Beaufort. Many travelers come to Islamorada 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.

In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Beaufort in the Spring?

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

Islamorada is a little warmer than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Islamorada

Islamorada Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)