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

Should you visit Marathon or Beaufort?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Beaufort, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon 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.

Marathon and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Marathon 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, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Marathon is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also home to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Marathon different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Beaufort is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon 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 Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

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

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Marathon has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

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 Marathon or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. 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.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Marathon 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.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

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

Is Marathon or Beaufort Better for Families?

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

Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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 Marathon or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Marathon and Beaufort are both superb to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

Neither Marathon or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Marathon or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Beaufort is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Beaufort?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Beaufort?

The beautiful island of Marathon offers nightlife 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 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 Marathon or Beaufort?

Marathon 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 Marathon or Beaufort?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, 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 Marathon or Beaufort?

Marathon 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 Marathon has to offer. This island 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Beaufort?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon or Beaufort?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun.

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Beaufort. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Beaufort. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Beaufort. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Marathon is a little warmer than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Marathon