A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Beaver Creek. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sarasota travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and food. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Sarasota and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Beaver Creek has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaver Creek is very popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, and hiking, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and beaches. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Sarasota and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also well known for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

How is Sarasota different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for skiing. However, Sarasota is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. 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.

Sarasota is not a skiing destination.


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

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Sarasota is a great city for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sarasota can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is mediocre for its theatre productions. However, Sarasota is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Sarasota is not a theatre destination.

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

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Beaver Creek has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.


Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Sarasota is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

There are nice resorts to choose from in both Sarasota and Beaver Creek.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Sarasota is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Sarasota has a beach worth visiting. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek for the hiking trails. 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Beaver Creek both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

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.

Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Both Sarasota and Beaver Creek are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Sarasota or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Beaver Creek is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Is Sarasota or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Both Sarasota and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Sarasota. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing city offers. 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.

The town of Beaver Creek offers skiing and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Sarasota is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this underrated destination offers. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Sarasota is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, 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 Sarasota and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

Also for Sarasota, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sarasota.

  • Anna Maria Island - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour : $65
  • Parasailing Adventure above the Gulf of Mexico: $95
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • 3-Hour Clear Kayak Beach Hopping Adventure in Sarasota: $65
  • Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding: $80
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Christmas Carol Trolley Holiday Music & Lights Tour in Sarasota: $77
  • City Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Sarasota: $73
  • Clear Kayak Ecotour at Robinson Preserve in Bradenton, Florida : $73
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Anna Maria Island: $65
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Sarasota: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Beaver Creek $35


When comparing the travel costs between Sarasota and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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