A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America The Hamptons vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

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 South Lake Tahoe 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its beaches and shopping. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for winter skiing. However, The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

South Lake Tahoe offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

Foodies will find both The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe just to party. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

If luxury resorts are your style, both The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe to choose from. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

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

Around South Lake Tahoe visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

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 South Lake Tahoe?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

The Hamptons is an amazing beach destination to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in The Hamptons make it a world-class shopping destination. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

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

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

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

South Lake Tahoe is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

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 South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
South Lake Tahoe

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

South Lake Tahoe is very walkable. Once you get to town, the area is very 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 South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

In either The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than South Lake Tahoe because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.


  • How many days in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hamptons 3-7 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic town 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 South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lavish beach destination of The Hamptons. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe?

The Hamptons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this idyllic 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 South Lake Tahoe?

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the shopping. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

South Lake Tahoe 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, South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe is $118. 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 South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe? 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 South Lake Tahoe


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: South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    South Lake Tahoe $24

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    South Lake Tahoe $56

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Audio Tour From Tahoe City to Incline Village: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Lake Tahoe to Virginia City: $12
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City: $12
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Tallac Historic Site Pope House Tour: $16
  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Tallac Historic Site Grand Estates Tour: $20
  • Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour: $25
  • Guided Tour of Historic Virginia City and Carson City from South Lake Tahoe: $70
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in Lake Tahoe: $75
  • Introductory Snowshoe Shared Experience: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    South Lake Tahoe $34

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

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

  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


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

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 South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or South Lake Tahoe?

South Lake Tahoe has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and South Lake Tahoe, 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.