A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pensacola vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Beaver Creek can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. And you can't forget about the skiing, food, and hiking.

Pensacola and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pensacola. Although Pensacola and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Pensacola has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pensacola is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Beaver Creek attracts visitors for its skiing, theatre productions, and hiking. Pensacola is famous for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also well known for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Beaver Creek is famous for its skiing and charming atmosphere

How is Pensacola different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Pensacola is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Pensacola is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Pensacola is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Pensacola is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Pensacola is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Pensacola is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Pensacola or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Beaver Creek both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Beaver Creek has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Pensacola is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Pensacola has a few options to choose from. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Pensacola is a great beach town for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Pensacola is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Pensacola is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Pensacola are among the best in the world. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Both Pensacola and Beaver Creek are nice shopping destinations.

Pensacola offers some nice shopping areas. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Beaver Creek has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is one of the most popular family destinations. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.


Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Both Pensacola and Beaver Creek are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very good for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.


For even more information, also check out Is Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Both Pensacola and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Beaver Creek has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaver Creek than Pensacola. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Pensacola 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Pensacola or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

In Pensacola, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Beaver Creek. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Pensacola is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

In Pensacola, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this entertaining destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find skiing and food around the adventurous town of Beaver Creek. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


A week in Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Pensacola is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Pensacola?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $198, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Pensacola and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola or Beaver Creek? 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 Pensacola


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Beaver Creek $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pensacola

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pensacola:

  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $142
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $48
    Beaver Creek $85
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

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

  • Seville Stroll Food Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Beaver Creek $53
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

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

  • 1hr Segway Tour Downtown : $57
  • 2hr Segway Tour of Downtown : $72
  • 3 Hour Sandbar Adventure on Motorized Floats: $69
  • 3 hours cruise with swimming: $81
  • Dolphin & Sightseeing Cruise + Private Beach Stop: $64
  • Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise: $59
  • Frisky Mermaid Fireworks Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $64
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $37
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $34
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tour in Pensacola : $35
  • Land Paddle Tour in Pensacola: $50
  • Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pensacola $44
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

Also in Pensacola, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Pub Tour : $21


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pensacola and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Pensacola much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pensacola would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pensacola 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Pensacola.

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