A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Beaver Creek? 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. Other popular activities here include skiing, food, and hiking. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Ocean City and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, food, hiking, and shopping, while Ocean City is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Ocean City is well known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Beaver Creek is well known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club.

How is Ocean City different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Ocean City is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Beaver Creek should be on your list. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Ocean City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Ocean City is adequate for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Ocean City is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Ocean City is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Beaver Creek is an experience not to be missed. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.


Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Ocean City is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Ocean City has something for everybody. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Ocean City is a great city for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Ocean City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Ocean City is a great city for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Ocean City. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek to go shopping. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ocean City or Beaver Creek.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Beaver Creek is one of the most popular family destinations. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.


Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

With fun activities for couples, both Ocean City and Beaver Creek make for a very good place to visit.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Ocean City or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Ocean City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.


For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Both Ocean City and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Beaver Creek has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaver Creek than Ocean City. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Ocean City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beaver Creek that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Ocean City 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Ocean City or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ocean City 3-7 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this laid back city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and skiing around the charming town of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Ocean City is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With skiing and food around the destination of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this active destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Ocean City is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Ocean City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Ocean City Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ocean City $196
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocean City is $196, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ocean City and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocean City $83
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocean City $166
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Ocean City and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Ocean City or Beaver Creek? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ocean City


Hotels in Beaver Creek


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ocean City Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocean City $47
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocean City or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Ocean City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ocean City $85
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocean City $18
    Beaver Creek $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocean City $14
    Beaver Creek $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ocean City and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Ocean City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ocean City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ocean City 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Ocean City.

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