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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Saint Simons and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Beaufort is known for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Saint Simons is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Saint Simons different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


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

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Beaufort can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint Simons or Beaufort has a better nightlife scene.

Saint Simons is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Beaufort doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

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

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

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 Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

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

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

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

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

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

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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 Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

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

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Beaufort is a great island if you're traveling as 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 Saint Simons or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Neither Saint Simons or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

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

Is Saint Simons or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Beaufort. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons 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.

In Beaufort, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the character-filled small town of Beaufort. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. 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 island offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Saint Simons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, 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 Saint Simons and Beaufort in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Beaufort $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    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
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Beaufort?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Beaufort. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Beaufort. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)