A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America The Hamptons vs. Boulder for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit The Hamptons or Boulder?

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 Boulder 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. The Hamptons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Boulder is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Boulder travel costs.

The Hamptons and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Boulder?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boulder. Although The Hamptons and Boulder are popular destinations, Boulder has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boulder is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, music, and hiking, while The Hamptons attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. The Hamptons is famous for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities. Boulder is famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. It is also well known for The Flatirons.

How is The Hamptons different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Skiing?

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Boulder to take advantage of their winter sports. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.


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

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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

The Hamptons
Boulder

Foodies will find both The Hamptons and Boulder 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.

Boulder has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Boulder

It's hard to distinguish whether The Hamptons or Boulder has a better nightlife scene.

The Hamptons has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

If you're looking for night time activities Boulder has a few options to choose from. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.


Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Music?

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for live music. However, The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons is a great beach destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

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.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons is a good destination for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.


Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

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 Boulder?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder 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 Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder More Beautiful?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons and Boulder both are comparable with their nice scenery and beauty.

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

Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.


Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Boulder

Both The Hamptons and Boulder are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hamptons. 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.

Boulder offers lots of family activities. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons is a great beach destination for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder 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.

Boulder is a good beach destination for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is The Hamptons or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Boulder is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

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 Boulder Better for Students?

The Hamptons
Boulder

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

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

The Hamptons
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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 Boulder a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Boulder

The Hamptons and Boulder both are nice 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.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable place. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Boulder or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hamptons and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Boulder. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder 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 Boulder.


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

One day in The Hamptons or Boulder?

In The Hamptons, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, many people enjoy the live music and food 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 Boulder?

In The Hamptons, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Boulder is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Five days in The Hamptons or Boulder?

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hamptons has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the nature-filled destination of Boulder. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. In The Hamptons, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Boulder 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boulder or The Hamptons?

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

  • The Hamptons Prices
    USA Prices
    Boulder Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    The Hamptons $267
    Boulder $231

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hamptons is $267, while the average daily cost in Boulder is $231. 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 Boulder in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Boulder $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Boulder $204
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Boulder

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Boulder? 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 Boulder


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: Boulder Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Boulder $51

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Boulder?

Prices for flights to both Boulder 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 $104
    Boulder $94

Typical Food Prices in Boulder

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boulder:


  • 2 Coffees
    $8.75
  • Nice Dinner for Two
    $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Boulder $33

Tours and Activities in Boulder

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

  • Downtown Boulder Smartphone Guided Audio GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Boulder CO: $15
  • University of Colorado Boulder Campus Adventure: $15
  • Bones, Burials, & Ballads: Boulder Ghost Tours: $24
  • Boulder Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Boulder Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Boulder Ghost Tour: $35
  • Guided Astronomy Tour: $45
  • Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon Combo Tour: $52
  • Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure: $85
  • Boulder Joyride Guided eBike Tour: $95
  • The Boulder Joyride eBike Tour: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Boulder $27


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


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and Boulder, 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.