A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Beaufort for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cozumel or Beaufort?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Cozumel travel costs.

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.

Cozumel and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Beaufort is known for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cozumel is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Cozumel different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Cozumel or Beaufort.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Beaufort. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Is Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Cozumel has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

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 Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

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

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

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 Cozumel or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town. However, Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Beaufort?

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

Cozumel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

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 Cozumel or Beaufort More Beautiful?

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

Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

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

Is Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Families?

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

Cozumel is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

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 Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Beaufort are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

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.

Is Cozumel or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

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

Cozumel is a moderate island 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 Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

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

Is Cozumel or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Cozumel and Beaufort are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Beaufort. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

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

One day in Cozumel or Beaufort?

The island of Cozumel offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cozumel or Beaufort?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Beaufort?

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Beaufort?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cozumel has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cozumel and Beaufort, we can see that Beaufort is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Beaufort?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel 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.