A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. The Hamptons for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

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 Boca Raton and The Hamptons. 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.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a outdoorsy, relaxed, and luxurious coastal city. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Boca Raton and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boca Raton than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boca Raton is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while The Hamptons is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Boca Raton is well known for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. Also, Boca Raton is famous for Red Reef Park. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Boca Raton different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hamptons and Boca Raton. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boca Raton makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a great destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Boca Raton know how to have a good time. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

There are very good resorts to choose from in both Boca Raton and The Hamptons.

There are plenty of resorts in Boca Raton to choose from. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

The Hamptons is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.


Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Boca Raton is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

The Hamptons offers a nice beach destination. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Hiking trails can be found around both Boca Raton and The Hamptons, and they are notable.

Boca Raton offers some nice hiking trails. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

The Hamptons is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.


Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many people travel to The Hamptons specifically to go shopping. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

Boca Raton is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boca Raton is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

The Hamptons offers lots of family activities. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton and The Hamptons both very good destinations for a couple.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.


Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Boca Raton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Boca Raton or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
The Hamptons

Boca Raton and The Hamptons are notable when it comes to walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

The Hamptons is somewhat walkable. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than The Hamptons 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 Boca Raton.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

In Boca Raton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxed coastal 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 nightlife around the opulent beach destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Boca Raton 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife and food around the destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

In Boca Raton, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this posh 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons, a popular beach destination, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Boca Raton is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Boca Raton?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $283, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $223. 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 Boca Raton and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or The Hamptons? 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 Boca Raton


Hotels in The Hamptons


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: Boca Raton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    The Hamptons $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

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

  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84
  • Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)- Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Boca Raton to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $42
  • Boynton Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $51
  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Boca Raton 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
    Boca Raton $67
    The Hamptons $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

For Boca Raton, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

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

  • Boca Raton Bash Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Boomers Park Admission Tickets: $50
  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $150
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $160
  • Boca Raton-Delray Beach 1-Hour Private Jet Ski Guided Tour: $165
  • Private Jet Ski Tour with Optional Snorkeling: $200
  • 23ft Boat Tour with Snorkeling/Tubing/Island: $400

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    The Hamptons $31


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boca Raton Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

Boca Raton has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and The Hamptons, 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 Boca Raton or The Hamptons?

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 Boca Raton or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Boca Raton is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boca Raton in July average around 82°F (28°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than The Hamptons. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

In October, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 78°F (25°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Boca Raton during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hamptons. Boca Raton is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Boca Raton usually gets less rain in January than The Hamptons. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Boca Raton is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boca Raton in April average around 74°F (23°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Boca Raton is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Boca Raton

Boca Raton The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)