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

Should you visit Sarasota or The Hamptons?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and The Hamptons. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Sarasota travel costs.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a opulent, lavish, and wealthy beach destination. The Hamptons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Sarasota and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Both The Hamptons and Sarasota have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Sarasota is very popular for its museums and attractions, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Sarasota is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Sarasota different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Sarasota
The Hamptons

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Sarasota and The Hamptons.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the The Hamptons area. 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 Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The vibe at night is nice in both Sarasota and The Hamptons.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

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

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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.


Is Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

Sarasota and The Hamptons both offer nice beaches.

Sarasota offers a nice beach destination. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

The Hamptons is a good option for a beach vacation. 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 Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.


Is Sarasota or The Hamptons More Beautiful?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.


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

Sarasota
The Hamptons

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Sarasota
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Both Sarasota and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Sarasota. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

Couples should spend more time in The Hamptons than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota.


  • How many days in Sarasota or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Sarasota or The Hamptons?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this underrated 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.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Sarasota is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing 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.

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 Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Sarasota is a popular place to visit. 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.

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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Sarasota?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    The Hamptons Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    The Hamptons $267

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $267. 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 Sarasota and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    The Hamptons $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    The Hamptons $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboard Tour: $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding LED Night Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $60
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • Sharkey's Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    The Hamptons $31


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


Which is Bigger, Sarasota or The Hamptons?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or The Hamptons in the Summer?

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

In July, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Sarasota receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than The Hamptons. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sarasota 82°F (28°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

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

Sarasota is much warmer than The Hamptons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sarasota 76°F (24°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or The Hamptons in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hamptons. In the winter, Sarasota is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than The Hamptons. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sarasota 59°F (15°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or The Hamptons in the Spring?

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

In April, Sarasota is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sarasota 73°F (23°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Sarasota

Sarasota The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)