A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Beaufort for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Key West or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Key West or Beaufort? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West 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.

Key West and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Beaufort?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Beaufort are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Key West different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Key West and Beaufort.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

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

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

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

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Key West 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 Key West. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

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 Key West or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Key West and Beaufort.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Beaufort offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Key West 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.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

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

Is Key West or Beaufort Better for Families?

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

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Beaufort Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Beaufort make for a very good place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Beaufort Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

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

Is Key West or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Beaufort is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Key West?

How long in Key West or Beaufort?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Beaufort?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Beaufort?

Key West 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Beaufort?

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

Beaufort 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.

A week in Key West or Beaufort?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Beaufort?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Key West is generally around the same temperature as Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Key West is a little warmer than Beaufort in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Beaufort. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Beaufort averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Beaufort. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In April, Key West is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Beaufort. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Key West