A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Beaufort for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Beaufort. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food. See Isla Mujeres 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 beautiful place to visit, too. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Beaufort travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Beaufort are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Beaufort can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

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 Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Isla Mujeres offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

People travel to Isla Mujeres specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres are among the best in the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

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 Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is notable for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Both Isla Mujeres and Beaufort are nice shopping destinations.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Beaufort has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Isla Mujeres or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres and Beaufort are somewhat similar when it comes to the nice scenery.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Is Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

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 Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Couples?

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

Isla Mujeres has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful 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 Isla Mujeres or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

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

Isla Mujeres 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.

Isla Mujeres has a few public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

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

Is Isla Mujeres or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres and Beaufort both are great when exploring on foot.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isla Mujeres and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaufort than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

The island of Isla Mujeres offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Isla Mujeres 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.

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Beaufort is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Beaufort, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Beaufort?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres 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.