A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America The Hamptons vs. Berkeley for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between The Hamptons and Berkeley can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

The Hamptons

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

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Hamptons and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

Both Berkeley and The Hamptons have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. The Hamptons is better known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums, food, and nightlife. Berkeley is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Berkeley 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, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

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

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

The Hamptons is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

The Hamptons has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

The Hamptons is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.


Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Both The Hamptons and Berkeley are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hamptons. 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.

Berkeley offers lots of family activities. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

The Hamptons is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.


Is The Hamptons or Berkeley Better for Students?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

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

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 The Hamptons or Berkeley a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 The Hamptons Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hamptons and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

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


  • How many days in The Hamptons or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hamptons 3-7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this diverse city offers. 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.

A weekend in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or The Hamptons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hamptons is $223, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 The Hamptons and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Berkeley? 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 The Hamptons


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons $60
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Berkeley?

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

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 The Hamptons or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hamptons and Berkeley. Most visitors come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, The Hamptons is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 76°F (25°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The Hamptons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Berkeley. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to The Hamptons as well as Berkeley. The autumn months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

The Hamptons is cooler than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 58°F (14°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The Hamptons usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and The Hamptons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in The Hamptons in the winter. In the winter, The Hamptons is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hamptons in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, The Hamptons usually receives less rain than Berkeley. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and The Hamptons during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, The Hamptons is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 51°F (11°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The Hamptons usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)