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

Should you visit Destin 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 Destin and Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Beaufort travel costs.

Destin and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Destin and Beaufort 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, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin is known for its resorts and beaches. Destin is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also home to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Destin different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Beaufort specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

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

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Destin 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 Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

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 Destin or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is notable for its historic old town. However, Destin 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.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Beaufort?

Both Destin and Beaufort are good shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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 Destin or Beaufort More Beautiful?

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

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

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

Is Destin or Beaufort Better for Families?

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

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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 Destin or Beaufort Better for Couples?

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

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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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

Neither Destin or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

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

Is Destin or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Beaufort is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach 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.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Destin?

How long in Destin or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Beaufort. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Destin. 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 Destin 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.

One day in Destin or Beaufort?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Beaufort?

Destin 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 is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Beaufort?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Beaufort?

Destin 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 Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin 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.

When is the best time to visit Destin or Beaufort?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Destin or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Destin is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Beaufort. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Destin is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Beaufort. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Destin is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Beaufort. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Destin