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

Should you visit Tampa or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food and beaches.

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.

Tampa and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Tampa or Beaufort?

Both Beaufort and Tampa have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is more touristy than Tampa and is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Beaufort. 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Beaufort

Both Tampa and Beaufort have respectable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Beaufort is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Tampa or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Beaufort

Tampa is a moderate city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Beaufort

Tampa 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 Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

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 Tampa or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Beaufort?

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Beaufort has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Beaufort Better for Families?

Tampa
Beaufort

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

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Beaufort

Neither Tampa or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

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


Is Tampa or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Tampa
Beaufort

Beaufort is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Beaufort. In our opinion, Beaufort has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaufort than Tampa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaufort than Tampa 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 Beaufort.


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

One day in Tampa or Beaufort?

The city of Tampa offers 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.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Beaufort?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Tampa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tampa or Beaufort?

Tampa 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.

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Beaufort?

Tampa 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 city offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private transfer: From Tampa to airport and vice versa : $18
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private One-way Tampa Airport Transfer To/From Tampa: $46
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tampa City to Tampa Airport TPA in Business Car: $73
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Business Car: $73
  • Private transfer Arrival or Departure - Tampa International Airport (TPA): $79
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Beaufort $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Riverwalk: A Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.33
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour: $30
  • Sunset and Night Cruises Tour: $30
  • Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • Tampa History Cruise: $31
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $31
  • The Florida Aquarium Ticket: $34
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35

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
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40


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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Beaufort?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Beaufort. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the summer, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Beaufort. Tampa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Beaufort. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Tampa during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tampa is much warmer than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the winter, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Beaufort. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the spring, Tampa is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Tampa

Tampa Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)