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

Should you visit The Hamptons or Oahu?

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 Oahu 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 opulent, lavish, and wealthy beach destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Oahu

Oahu is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and scenic island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

The Hamptons and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although The Hamptons and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its shopping. Oahu is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also well known for Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu 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 Oahu. The USS Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor is a moving and special place to visit, but tickets should be purchased in advance. Other landmarks around the island include the Tour Iolani Palace and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Oahu

Foodies will find both The Hamptons and Oahu both to be nice destinations.

The Hamptons offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Oahu has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Honolulu has a diversity of cuisines and a cosmopolitan vibe, giving it some of the best food in the Hawaiian Islands. The local restaurants are influenced by a number of countries and often incorporate Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Portuguese flavors. Dishes are often saucy, sweet, and starchy, but you'll also find fresh tropical fruits such as mango and coconut.

Is The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Oahu

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

The people in Oahu know how to have a good time. Honolulu, and Oahu, have some of the best nightlife in the Hawaiian islands. There are tiki bars and posh nightclubs that keep buzzing late into the night. Head to Waikiki for some of the island's best nightlife. In Honolulu you'll find some local bars and clubs, but many resorts also offer a great nightlife scene and a fun atmosphere that caters specifically to tourists.

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 Oahu Better for Music?

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu is a island with a few options for live music. However, The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

For those who seek it out, Oahu has several music venues. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

The Hamptons is not a live music destination.


Is The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Oahu

If luxury resorts are your style, both The Hamptons and Oahu have high quality options.

In The Hamptons, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

There are plenty of resorts in Oahu to choose from. The island has a diversity of resorts, from luxury 5 star accommodation to family-friendly resorts that are fun for all ages. Ko Olina is where you'll find Aulani, the Disney Resort. Waikiki is one of the most famous tourist areas on the island and you'll find high rise hotels and condos along the beach.

Is The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Oahu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Snorkeling and diving on the island is among the best in the world. There are 3 marine life conservation parks and miles of coastline to explore.

The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Oahu

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

Oahu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. From the energetic Waikiki Beach to the family-friendly Ko Olina, Oahu has some of the most famous beaches in the world. The beaches are lined with sand and some areas offer better swimming conditions than others. You'll also find beaches with snorkeling or sea turtles, and some with world class surfing waves.

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 The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Oahu

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

Around Oahu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. World famous hikes on the island include Diamond Head and Koko Crater Railroad Trailhead. There are hikes ranging from easy to challenging and views that will take your breath away.

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 Oahu?

The Hamptons
Oahu

The Hamptons is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, The Hamptons draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Oahu. There are shopping centers and malls in Honolulu that have major department stores as well as island favorites. For a local experience head to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet or wander along the Waikiki Beach Walk with its many boutique shops. Also worth a visit is the Honolulu Chinatown market.

Is The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu 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.

Oahu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. There are plenty of outdoor activities, places to learn about Hawaiian culture, and world class beaches. The most popular family-friendly area is Ko Olina, which is where you'll find the Disney Resort, Aulani. Kids will also enjoy the area's snorkeling and kayaking. Surfing lessons are a fun activity for the whole family as well.

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 Oahu Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu is a world-class destination for romance. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Oahu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island offers a beautiful and adventurous honeymoon destination that is perfect for anniversaries and other romantic getaways. It's an island paradise with world class beaches, stunning vistas, and countless water sports.

The Hamptons is a great beach destination 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 The Hamptons or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hamptons
Oahu

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

Oahu is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels on the island. Public transportation is also a bit better than the other islands, so it is one of the better Hawaiian islands for backpackers.

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

The Hamptons
Oahu

Oahu is a island 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 Oahu. Honolulu has a fairly good bus system, but once you're out of the city, public transportation is limited.

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 Oahu a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Oahu

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good 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.

Oahu is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods in Honolulu, but if you really want to explore the island, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Oahu or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Oahu?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in The Hamptons or Oahu?

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.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cosmopolitan island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Oahu?

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.

Oahu 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.


Five days in The Hamptons or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy 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.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in The Hamptons or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the lavish 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.

Oahu is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


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, Oahu 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 Oahu is $333. 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 Oahu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Oahu $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Oahu $474
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Oahu

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Oahu? 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 Oahu


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: Oahu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Oahu $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oahu

Also for Oahu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer: Airport Shuttle From Ko'olina To Honolulu Airport: $53
  • Honolulu / Waikiki to Honolulu Airport (HNL) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Honolulu Airport & Ko Olina Hotels Private Transfer by Passenger Van(14 ppl): $170
  • Honolulu Airport (HNL) to Honolulu / Waikiki - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $92
  • Luxury Private Airport Transfers to Waikiki Honolulu - Up to 4 Seats : $62
  • Luxury Transfer Between Ko Olina and Honolulu Airport, Vice Versa: $240
  • Airport 1-Way Transfer to Honolulu: $60
  • Full-Day Island Highlights Tour with Transfer: $136
  • Honolulu Airport Private Transfer: $70
  • Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal Transfer: $105
  • Ko Olina or Kapolei to Airport Private Transfer: $100
  • Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike with Lunch and Transfers: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Oahu?

Prices for flights to both Oahu 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
    Oahu $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oahu

For Oahu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $97
  • Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $125
  • Honolulu Sunset & Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $129
  • Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show at Aloha Tower: $129
  • Hawaii Semisub Classic Friday Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $170
  • Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu: $179
  • Germaine's Traditional Luau Show & Buffet Dinner: $191
  • Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz: $225
  • Traditional Canoe Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $250

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Oahu $27

Tours and Activities in Oahu

For Oahu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Diamond Head Hiking Narrated Tour: $5.00
  • Honolulu Downtown Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Walk The Deck of The USS Arizona Virtual Reality Tour: $5.99
  • Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center Tour: $6.99
  • Historic Honolulu Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.30
  • Official USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Waikiki Military and Entertainment History GPS-Led Walking Tour: $7.99
  • GPS-Guided Waikiki Walking Tour Part 1: Hawaiian Royalty: $7.99
  • USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Chief'sTour: $7.99
  • Honolulu Historic District a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Honolulu's Backyard Rainforest Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Commander's 1-Hour Official Pearl Harbor Narrated Multimedia Tour: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Oahu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Oahu

Also in Oahu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734: $25
  • History Tour Pub Crawl in Waikiki: $45
  • Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl: $45


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between The Hamptons and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. And not only is The Hamptons much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to The Hamptons would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in The Hamptons 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 Oahu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oahu than you might in The Hamptons.

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 Oahu Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit The Hamptons or Oahu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit The Hamptons or Oahu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to The Hamptons as well as Oahu. Most visitors come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, The Hamptons is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in The Hamptons in July average around 76°F (25°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. The Hamptons usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Oahu 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and The Hamptons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In October, The Hamptons is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 58°F (14°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In October, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Oahu. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C) 
    Oahu 80°F (26°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and The Hamptons during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in The Hamptons in the winter. The Hamptons is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The Hamptons usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Oahu 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hamptons and Oahu. Many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oahu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, The Hamptons is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in The Hamptons in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In April, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Oahu. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C) 
    Oahu 76°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Oahu and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Oahu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 76°F (24°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 78°F (25°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 80°F (26°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)