A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beaufort vs. Jasper National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Jasper National Park, 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.

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. Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Beaufort travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Beaufort and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Beaufort and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Beaufort has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaufort is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also home to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Beaufort different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known 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 Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is well known for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park 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.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Jasper National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.


Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Beaufort is a beautiful place to visit, too. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

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

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

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 Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort and Jasper National Park are both superb to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Jasper National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.


Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

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

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Neither Beaufort or Jasper National Park offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Beaufort or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Jasper National Park

Beaufort is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly 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.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.


For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

In either Beaufort or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Beaufort because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaufort than Jasper National Park 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 Beaufort or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

The beautiful national park of Jasper National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Beaufort for five days. Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Beaufort and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Jasper National Park? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Jasper National Park


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Jasper National Park $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Canadian Rockies Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $50
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $66
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Jasper National Park $11


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

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