A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Duck vs. The Hamptons for Beaches, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Duck or The Hamptons?

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

Should I visit Duck or The Hamptons? 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.

Duck

Duck is a laid-back, traditional, and compact beach town. 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. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Duck and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Duck or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Duck. Although Duck and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, Duck has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Duck is more popular for its museums, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons is known for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Duck is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. It is also home to the wide sandy beach. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Duck different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Duck
The Hamptons

Duck is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Duck offers a few options for museum-goers. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Duck
The Hamptons

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Duck and The Hamptons.

Duck offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

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 Duck or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Duck
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a popular place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in The Hamptons. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Duck or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Duck
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Duck makes a nice vacation spot. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.


Is Duck or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Duck
The Hamptons

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

Duck is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

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 Duck or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Duck
The Hamptons

If you're looking to go hiking, Duck and The Hamptons both have good trails.

Duck is a good destination for hiking. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Many people include a hike when visiting The Hamptons. 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 Duck or The Hamptons?

Duck
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is renowned for shopping. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

The Hamptons is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Duck is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.


Is Duck or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Duck
The Hamptons

Duck 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.

Duck is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

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 Duck or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Duck
The Hamptons

With fun activities for couples, both Duck and The Hamptons make for a excellent place to visit.

Duck is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

The Hamptons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Duck or The Hamptons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Duck
The Hamptons

Duck is a beach town 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 Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

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 Duck or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Duck
The Hamptons

Duck is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Duck on foot is easy. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Duck Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Duck?

How long in Duck or The Hamptons?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Duck 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 Duck.


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

One day in Duck or The Hamptons?

Duck 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Duck or The Hamptons?

Duck 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. 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.

The Hamptons is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Duck or The Hamptons?

Duck 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the lavish destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Duck or The Hamptons?

Duck 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the wealthy beach destination of The Hamptons. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Duck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $188, 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 Duck and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Duck and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Duck 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 Duck


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.
    Duck $66
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Duck or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Duck 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
    Duck $45
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Duck $13
    The Hamptons $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Duck $45
    The Hamptons $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Duck and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons is more expensive. And not only is Duck much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Duck would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Duck 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 Duck.

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


Which is Bigger, Duck or The Hamptons?

The Hamptons has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck 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 Duck or The Hamptons?

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 Duck or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Duck in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Duck is around the same temperature as The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Duck usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Duck gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Duck or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Duck as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Duck is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Duck in October average around 62°F (16°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Duck usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as The Hamptons. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Duck or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Duck because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

It's quite cold in The Hamptons in the winter. The weather in Duck can be very cold. In January, Duck is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 41°F (5°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Duck. In January, Duck usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Duck or The Hamptons in the Spring?

Both The Hamptons and Duck during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Duck this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Duck is a little warmer than The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Duck usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Duck

Duck The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)