A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America The Hamptons vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

The Hamptons and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although The Hamptons and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while The Hamptons is known for its beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs 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, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to Palm Springs just to party. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

There are plenty of resorts in The Hamptons to choose from. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.


Is The Hamptons or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

The Hamptons is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is The Hamptons or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

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 Palm Springs?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

The Hamptons is an amazing beach destination to visit for shopping. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.


Is The Hamptons or Palm Springs Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

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 Palm Springs Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Both The Hamptons and Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.


Is The Hamptons or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Palm Springs

The Hamptons and Palm Springs both are good when exploring on foot.

The Hamptons is somewhat walkable. 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.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either The Hamptons or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in The Hamptons due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.


  • How many days in The Hamptons or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hamptons 3-7 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

In The Hamptons, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this wealthy beach destination offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this outdoorsy city 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 Palm Springs?

The Hamptons 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. Lots of people come for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Palm Springs is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

In The Hamptons, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this wealthy destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Palm Springs?

The Hamptons is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Palm Springs 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, Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs is $206. 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 Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Palm Springs? 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 Palm Springs


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Palm Springs $13


When comparing the travel costs between The Hamptons and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs in the Summer?

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

The Hamptons is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 76°F (25°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The Hamptons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to The Hamptons as well as Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, The Hamptons is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in The Hamptons in October average around 58°F (14°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

The Hamptons usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs this time of year.

The weather in The Hamptons can be very cold. In January, The Hamptons is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 31°F (-0°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs 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.

The Hamptons is much colder than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The Hamptons usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)