A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. The Hamptons for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Key West or The Hamptons?

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

Should I visit Key West or The Hamptons? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West travel costs.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a opulent, lavish, and wealthy beach destination. The Hamptons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Key West and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or The Hamptons?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and The Hamptons are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its hiking and shopping. Key West is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Key West different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key West 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, Key West makes for a great culinary experience. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Key West know how to have a good time. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Key West and The Hamptons offer a relatively similar set of excellent luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

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.

Is Key West or The Hamptons Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Key West is a great destination for its beaches. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

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 Key West or The Hamptons Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town. However, The Hamptons does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

The Hamptons does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or The Hamptons?

The Hamptons is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or The Hamptons More Beautiful?

Key West is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

The Hamptons is a beautiful place to visit, too. For a beautiful, upscale setting, this is a great destination near NYC.

Is Key West or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Key West 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.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and The Hamptons make for a excellent place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

The Hamptons makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Key West or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or The Hamptons offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

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 Key West or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Key West and The Hamptons both are nice when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Key West?

How long in Key West or The Hamptons?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or The Hamptons?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this eclectic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

The beach destination of The Hamptons offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or The Hamptons?

Key West 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.

The Hamptons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or The Hamptons?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quirky destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The Hamptons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in The Hamptons, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or The Hamptons?

Key West is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hamptons has to offer. This beach destination offers something for everyone.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and The Hamptons, we can see that Key West 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 Key West Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or The Hamptons?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West or The Hamptons?

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 Key West or The Hamptons in the Summer?

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

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

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

Key West is much warmer than The Hamptons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than The Hamptons. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or The Hamptons in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in The Hamptons in the winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or The Hamptons in the Spring?

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

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Key West