A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. The Hamptons for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

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.

Cape Cod and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Both The Hamptons and Cape Cod have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cape Cod is better known for its food, beaches, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while The Hamptons is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Cape Cod is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Cape Cod different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod 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, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in The Hamptons to choose from. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod is a great destination for its beaches. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

The beaches at Cape Cod attract visitors from all over. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Hiking trails can be found around both Cape Cod and The Hamptons, and they are notable.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination 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.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod and The Hamptons both very good destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod is a beach destination with a few options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
The Hamptons

Cape Cod and The Hamptons are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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 Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Both Cape Cod and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cape Cod has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Cod than The Hamptons. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod.


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

One day in Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

The beach destination of The Hamptons offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The Hamptons 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.

Five days in Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in The Hamptons, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Cape Cod is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hamptons has to offer. This beach destination offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Cape Cod?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, 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 Cape Cod and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    The Hamptons $31


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

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



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, 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, Cape Cod is cooler than The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Cod in July average around 68°F (20°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Cape Cod usually gets less rain in July than The Hamptons. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Cape Cod is generally cooler than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 53°F (12°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Cape Cod during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod 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. It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. Cape Cod is around the same temperature as The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in January than The Hamptons. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cape Cod is cooler than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Cod in April average around 45°F (7°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Cape Cod

Cape Cod The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)