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

Should you visit The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan 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 wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

The Hamptons and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although The Hamptons and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Ketchikan is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

The Hamptons is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre 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 Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is The Hamptons or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

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

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.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.


Is The Hamptons or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

The Hamptons is very good for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Many people head to The Hamptons to enjoy the beach. 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.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is The Hamptons or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

The Hamptons offers some nice hiking trails. 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 The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

The Hamptons is renowned for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.


Is The Hamptons or Ketchikan Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

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 The Hamptons or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Both The Hamptons and Ketchikan are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit The Hamptons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Ketchikan is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a town with good options for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ketchikan is a good town to visit for backpackers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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 Ketchikan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

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 Ketchikan a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a great destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hamptons and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

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


  • How many days in The Hamptons or Ketchikan? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hamptons 3-7 
    Ketchikan 1-3

One day in The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach destination of The Hamptons. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Ketchikan, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the opulent destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ketchikan is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the wealthy beach destination of The Hamptons. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Ketchikan?

The Hamptons is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in The Hamptons, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan is $220. 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 Ketchikan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Ketchikan $136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Ketchikan $272
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Ketchikan

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Ketchikan? 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 Ketchikan


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.
    The Hamptons $63
    Ketchikan $39

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

Prices for flights to both Ketchikan 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
    Ketchikan $53

Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Ketchikan $46

Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Husky Walking Tour: $49
  • City Highlights Totem Parks and Sightseeing: $59
  • Saxman Native Village and Ketchikan Highlights Private Tour: $69
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $72
  • Ketchikan Duck Tour: $75
  • Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour: $85
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $85
  • From Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour: $85
  • Alaska Native Cultural Immersion Experience and Ketchikan Tour: $89
  • Alaska Native Cultural Immersion Experience: $89
  • Cruisin' and Boozin' - 90 minute Historical Walking Tour of Sites and Bars: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Ketchikan $23


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


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and Ketchikan, 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 Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan in the Summer?

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

The Hamptons is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 76°F (25°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the summer. The Hamptons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, The Hamptons usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, The Hamptons is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in The Hamptons in October average around 58°F (14°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. The Hamptons usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C) 
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Ketchikan in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. The weather in The Hamptons can be very cold. In January, The Hamptons is generally much colder than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 31°F (-0°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In January, The Hamptons usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Ketchikan in the Spring?

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

The Hamptons is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. The Hamptons usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C) 
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Ketchikan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm)