A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. The Hamptons for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or The Hamptons, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

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.

Virginia Beach and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Travelers will usually find more to do in The Hamptons. Although Virginia Beach and The Hamptons are popular destinations, The Hamptons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities. It is also well known for The Montauk Lighthouse.

How is Virginia Beach different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.


Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The vibe at night is nice in both Virginia Beach and The Hamptons.

If you're looking for night time activities Virginia Beach has a few options to choose from. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

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.

Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

Both Virginia Beach and The Hamptons have nice beaches worth visiting.

Virginia Beach has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in The Hamptons. 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 Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

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 Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

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.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Virginia Beach is popular with students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

Neither Virginia Beach or The Hamptons offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

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


Is Virginia Beach or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination 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.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Both Virginia Beach and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, The Hamptons has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in The Hamptons than Virginia Beach. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hamptons than Virginia Beach 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 The Hamptons.


  • How many days in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Virginia Beach 5-7 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

In Virginia Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this relaxing coastal city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In The Hamptons, you'll find nightlife and food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Virginia Beach is a fun place to experience. 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.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

In Virginia Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this bustling destination offers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. It's also a relaxing resort destination. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Virginia Beach is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. 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.

In The Hamptons, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Virginia Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Virginia Beach is $126, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $223. 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 Virginia Beach and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Virginia Beach $71
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Virginia Beach $142
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Virginia Beach and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Virginia Beach or The Hamptons? 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 Virginia Beach


Hotels in The Hamptons


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: Virginia Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Virginia Beach $39
    The Hamptons $63
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Virginia Beach 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
    Virginia Beach $30
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Virginia Beach $21
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Virginia Beach.

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium: $59
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Wetland Zip Tour: $65
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours | Must Know How to Swim: $78
  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $87

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Virginia Beach $11
    The Hamptons $31


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

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


Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

Virginia Beach has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and The Hamptons, 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 Virginia Beach or The Hamptons?

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 Virginia Beach or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as The Hamptons. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Virginia Beach is generally around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 79°F (26°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Virginia Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in July than The Hamptons. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than The Hamptons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In October, Virginia Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Virginia Beach 62°F (16°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Virginia Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. Virginia Beach can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Virginia Beach is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Virginia Beach in January average around 39°F (4°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

Virginia Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as The Hamptons. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Virginia Beach is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)