A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. The Hamptons for Families, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Ocean City or The Hamptons?

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

Should I visit Ocean City 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a active, energetic, and fun-filled city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ocean City and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or The Hamptons?

Both The Hamptons and Ocean City have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Ocean City is better known for its museums, nightlife, and beaches, while The Hamptons is more popular for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Ocean City is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Ocean City different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ocean City is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Ocean City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Ocean City and The Hamptons both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ocean City area. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around The Hamptons. 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 Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Ocean City know how to have a good time. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

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 Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Ocean City and The Hamptons offer a relatively similar set of excellent luxury resort options.

Ocean City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in The Hamptons. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Is Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Ocean City attract visitors from all over. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

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 Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or The Hamptons?

The Hamptons is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

The Hamptons is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Ocean City is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Ocean City or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

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

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

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

Ocean City is a city 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 Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

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 Ocean City or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

The Hamptons is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable beach destination. 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.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or The Hamptons?

Both Ocean City and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Ocean City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ocean City than The Hamptons. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ocean City 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 Ocean City.

One day in Ocean City or The Hamptons?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this laid back 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 wealthy 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 Ocean City or The Hamptons?

Ocean City 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. 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 Ocean City or The Hamptons?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this laid back 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. 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 Ocean City or The Hamptons?

Ocean City 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 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or The Hamptons?

Ocean City has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the summer for the beaches 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.

In the summer, Ocean City is around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ocean City in July average around 77°F (25°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ocean City usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ocean City or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the shopping scene 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 October, Ocean City is generally around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 58°F (14°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in October than The Hamptons. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Ocean City because of the museums, 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 Ocean City can be very cold. Ocean City is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 35°F (2°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Ocean City usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ocean City or The Hamptons in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Ocean City is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ocean City in April average around 54°F (12°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Ocean City usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Ocean City