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

Should you visit Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Kennebunkport, 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 southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Beaufort travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Beaufort and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Beaufort and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Beaufort has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaufort is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Kennebunkport is known for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. 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 Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Both Beaufort and Kennebunkport have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.


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

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Beaufort and Kennebunkport.

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.

Kennebunkport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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 Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

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

Kennebunkport is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Beaufort is a popular place for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Beaufort is great for its historic old town. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

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

Kennebunkport has hiking trails worth exploring. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

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

Kennebunkport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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 Beaufort or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Beaufort and Kennebunkport both are comparable with their good scenery and beauty.

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

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

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

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly place to visit. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

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 Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Beaufort and Kennebunkport are both very good 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.

Kennebunkport makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

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

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a moderate 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 Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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

Is Beaufort or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Kennebunkport

Beaufort is great for its walkability. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

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

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

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


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

One day in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The town of Kennebunkport offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Five days in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Kennebunkport 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.


A week in Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $269. 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 Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Kennebunkport? 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 Kennebunkport


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 Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $35
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Kennebunkport $31


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Kennebunkport, 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 Beaufort or Kennebunkport?

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 Beaufort or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Kennebunkport. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kennebunkport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Beaufort is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kennebunkport in the winter. In January, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Kennebunkport. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Beaufort is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Beaufort

Beaufort Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)