A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Beaufort for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Saint Petersburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Beaufort is known for its historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Saint Petersburg is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Saint Petersburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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.


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

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Petersburg and Beaufort.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

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

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg are among the best in the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

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

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.

Saint Petersburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Beaufort both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

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


Is Saint Petersburg or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Beaufort is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

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

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Both Saint Petersburg and Beaufort are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Saint Petersburg is a moderate coastal city 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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

Is Saint Petersburg or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Beaufort. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

The coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers food and shopping. 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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Petersburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Saint Petersburg?

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

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Beaufort $154

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $154. 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 Saint Petersburg and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Beaufort? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Beaufort $54
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Beaufort?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Saint Petersburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Petersburg is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 82°F (28°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 Saint Petersburg. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 265 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Beaufort. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°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 Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Beaufort. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°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 Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)