A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Beaufort for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Playa del Carmen 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Beaufort travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Playa del Carmen is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Beaufort. 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.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

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 Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Playa del Carmen specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Beaufort is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen are among the best in the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

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 Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen has hiking trails worth exploring. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Beaufort and Playa del Carmen.

Many visitors go to Playa del Carmen to go shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

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 Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Couples?

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

Playa del Carmen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

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 Playa del Carmen or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Playa del Carmen. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

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

Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its walkability. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Playa del Carmen on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Playa del Carmen 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 small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Beaufort?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Beaufort. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Beaufort during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Beaufort. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), 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 Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the autumn, Playa del Carmen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, 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.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches 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 the spring, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the spring, Playa del Carmen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Beaufort. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Playa del Carmen