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

Should you visit Naples or Beaufort?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Naples and Beaufort can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a historic, character-filled, and southern town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Naples and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Naples or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Beaufort is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Naples is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Also, Naples is famous for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Naples different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Naples
Beaufort

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Beaufort and Naples.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Naples. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.

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.


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

Naples
Beaufort

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Naples and Beaufort.

Naples has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

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.

Is Naples or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Beaufort

Naples 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 Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

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 Naples or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Naples
Beaufort

Naples is notable for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Naples is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Naples or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Beaufort

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

Naples has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Naples
Beaufort

Naples 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 Naples are among the best in the world. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County 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 Naples or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Naples
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Naples does not have a historic old town.

Beaufort is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Naples does not have a historic old town.


Is Naples or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Naples
Beaufort

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

Naples has hiking trails worth exploring. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Beaufort?

Naples
Beaufort

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Naples and Beaufort.

Naples has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

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

Is Naples or Beaufort Better for Families?

Naples
Beaufort

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

Naples is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

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 Naples or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Naples
Beaufort

Both Naples and Beaufort are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Naples or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Beaufort

Naples is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

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

Naples
Beaufort

Naples 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 Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

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


Is Naples or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Naples
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Naples?

How long in Naples or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Naples and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Naples than in Beaufort. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Naples or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Naples or Beaufort?

The beach town of Naples 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. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Naples or Beaufort?

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, 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. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Naples or Beaufort?

Naples 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 Naples, five days is sufficent for most. 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Naples or Beaufort?

Naples is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Naples?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $226, 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 Naples and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Naples and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Naples 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 Naples


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: Naples Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

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

  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Naples 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
    Naples $70
    Beaufort $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • Self-Guided Island Tour - CLEAR or Standard Kayak or Board - Bonita Springs : $30
  • Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour: $51
  • Trike Tour of Naples Florida - Fun Activity Downtown Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour of Downtown Naples FL - Explore The Fun Way: $55
  • Naples, Florida - Segway Electric Moped Tour - Family Fun: $55
  • Naples, Florida: Family Friendly Guided Electric Trike Tour: $55
  • Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour - Explore Naples Florida: $55
  • Naples, FL: Group Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour: $55
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $55
  • Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise from Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour Of Naples Florida Fun Family Experience: $55
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59

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
    Naples $38
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

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

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


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


Which is Bigger, Naples or Beaufort?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Naples 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.