A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Beaufort for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Beaufort travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
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 popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a town with good options for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Beaufort is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular spot for hiking. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to go shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

You'll find a similar quality of notable scenery and beauty in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers plenty of beauty for visitors. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.

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

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Beaufort is a great recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

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

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort. In our opinion, Beaufort has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaufort than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Beaufort than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

The recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

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

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. 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 recreation area offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

  • Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Beaufort $154

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $154. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
    Beaufort $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    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: $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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.