A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Nantucket for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Beaufort or Nantucket?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Nantucket, 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.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket travel costs.

Beaufort and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Beaufort and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is known for its quaint atmosphere. Nantucket is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Nantucket

Both Beaufort and Nantucket 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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Beaufort or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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 Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is notable for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

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 Beaufort or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Beaufort and Nantucket both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Is Beaufort or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Nantucket?

Beaufort
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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

Is Beaufort or Nantucket Better for Families?

Beaufort
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

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 Nantucket Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is renowned for romance. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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.

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

Beaufort
Nantucket

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Beaufort or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Nantucket

Beaufort and Nantucket both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Nantucket is a very walkable town. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.


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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket 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 Nantucket.

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

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

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


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

One day in Beaufort or Nantucket?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful island of Nantucket offers food and shopping. 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 Nantucket?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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.

Nantucket 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nantucket, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Nantucket?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Nantucket?

Beaufort is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 island 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, Nantucket 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
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Nantucket $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Nantucket $34

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 Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Nantucket $35


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Nantucket. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In the autumn, Beaufort is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Nantucket in the Winter?

Both Nantucket and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In January, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Nantucket. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Beaufort is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Beaufort

Beaufort Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)