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

Should you visit Panama City or The Hamptons?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or The Hamptons, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Panama City

Panama City is a fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a opulent, lavish, and wealthy beach destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Panama City and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and The Hamptons are popular destinations, Panama City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its nightlife, music, and beaches, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and shopping. Panama City is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also well known for Pier Park. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Panama 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 Panama City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Panama City
The Hamptons

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and The Hamptons can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Panama City. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

The Hamptons is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama 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 Panama City know how to have a good time. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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 Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Music?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama City is a beach town with good options for live music. However, The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Panama City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.


Is Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama 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 Panama City attract visitors from all over. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

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 Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Panama City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or The Hamptons?

Panama City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is an amazing beach destination to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in The Hamptons make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.


Is Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama 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.

Panama City is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama City and The Hamptons are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

The Hamptons is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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 Panama City or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama City is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.


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

Panama City
The Hamptons

Panama City 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 Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

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 Panama City or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Panama City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

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

How long in Panama City or The Hamptons?

Both Panama City and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Panama City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Panama 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 Panama City than The Hamptons. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Panama City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hamptons than Panama City 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 The Hamptons.


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

One day in Panama City or The Hamptons?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the live music and food that this fun-filled beach town 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lavish beach destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the shopping. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Panama City or The Hamptons?

Panama City 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the lavish destination of The Hamptons. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This beach destination offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or The Hamptons?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this active 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.

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 five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or The Hamptons?

Panama 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the shopping. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination.


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


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Panama City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $224, 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 Panama City and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Panama City and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Panama City 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 Panama City


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: Panama City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Panama City 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
    Panama City $66
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Panama City Beach: SkyWheel Ticket with Sunset Option: $19
  • SkyWheel Panama City Beach Sunset Ticket: $23
  • Panama City Beach: SkyWheel Ticket and Mini Golf Combo: $26
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour: Pedal At Your Pace: $28
  • Bike Rental with Smartphone Tour: $28
  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay: $29
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $35
  • Panama City Beach Dolphin Sightseeing Sail: $40
  • Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time: $42
  • Panama City Beach: Sunset Catamaran Cruise: $45
  • Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time : $52
  • Sunset Speedboat Tour with Dolphin Watching: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    The Hamptons $31


When comparing the travel costs between Panama City and The Hamptons, we can see that Panama City 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 Panama City Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or The Hamptons?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Panama 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 Panama 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 Panama City or The Hamptons in the Summer?

Both The Hamptons and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Panama City is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. It's quite rainy in Panama City. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

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

Both The Hamptons and Panama City during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Panama City is much warmer than The Hamptons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than The Hamptons. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Panama City in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Panama City is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Panama City 52°F (11°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Panama City as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Panama City is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Panama City usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Panama City

Panama City The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)