A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Beaufort for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Panama City or Beaufort?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City 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.

Panama City

Panama City is a fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. Panama City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Panama City travel costs.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Beaufort is a beautiful place to visit, too. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Beaufort travel costs.

Panama City and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Beaufort?

Both Beaufort and Panama City have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, and beaches, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Panama City is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Panama City different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Beaufort is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Panama City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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 Panama City or Beaufort Better for Music?

Panama City is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Panama City active and fun. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Panama City has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Panama City 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 Panama City. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

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 Panama City or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is a great destination for its old town. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Beaufort?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Beaufort and Panama City.

Panama City offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

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 Panama City or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Panama City and Beaufort are somewhat similar when it comes to the nice scenery.

Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, too. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

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

Is Panama City or Beaufort Better for Families?

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

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Panama City or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Panama City and Beaufort are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Beaufort is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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 Panama City or Beaufort Better for Students?

Panama City is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Panama City is a great beach town to visit as a student. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Panama City is a moderate beach town for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

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

Is Panama City or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Beaufort is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options 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.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Beaufort?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaufort than Panama 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 Beaufort.

One day in Panama City or Beaufort?

The beach town of Panama City offers live music 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 with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or Beaufort?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Panama City or Beaufort?

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

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Beaufort?

Panama City 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 Panama City has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Beaufort?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Panama City 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 Panama City 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 Panama City or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Beaufort. The summer months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Panama City usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Beaufort. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Panama City is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the autumn, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Panama City is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Beaufort averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during winter. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Panama City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Panama City 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.

In April, Panama City is generally around the same temperature as Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the spring, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Panama City