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

Should you visit The Hamptons or Hilo?

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 Hilo 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 lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. The Hamptons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

The Hamptons and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Hilo is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo 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, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Hilo

The Hamptons is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Hilo

The Hamptons is a great beach destination for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

The Hamptons is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.


Is The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

The Hamptons
Hilo

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

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Hilo

Both The Hamptons and Hilo are considered to be notable beach destinations.

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.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Hilo

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

Around Hilo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

The Hamptons
Hilo

The Hamptons is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Many people travel to The Hamptons specifically to go shopping. 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is The Hamptons or Hilo More Beautiful?

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo 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.

Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

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

Is The Hamptons or Hilo Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo 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.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Hilo

Both The Hamptons and Hilo are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit The Hamptons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Hilo is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo is a great destination for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The Hamptons
Hilo

Hilo 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

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 Hilo a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Hilo

The Hamptons and Hilo both are notable 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.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Hilo?

Both The Hamptons and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than The Hamptons. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in The Hamptons or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this laid back 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 Hilo?

The Hamptons is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in The Hamptons or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this mellow 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in The Hamptons or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the opulent beach destination of The Hamptons. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


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, Hilo 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
    Hilo Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    The Hamptons $267
    Hilo $222

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hamptons is $267, while the average daily cost in Hilo is $222. 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 Hilo in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Hilo? 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 Hilo


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: Hilo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Hilo $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hilo

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

  • Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport (KOA) to Hotels - Big Island: $15
  • Departure Transfer from Hotels to Kona International Airport: $15
  • Kona International Airport (KOA) to Kailua-Kona - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) to Waikoloa beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Keahole Kona Airport KOA: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport to Big Island Hotels: $204
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Keahole Kona Airport (KOA) : $72
  • Private Departure Transfer: Big Island Hotels to Kona International Airport: $204
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea to Kona International Airport: $85
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Kailua-Kona: $75
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea : $95

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Hilo?

Prices for flights to both Hilo 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
    Hilo $121

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilo

For Hilo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hands-On Hawaiian Imu Cooking and Cultural Dining Experience: $150
  • Farm to Table Cooking Class at Kulaniapia Falls: $169
  • Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay: $189
  • Farm-to-Table Chef's Dinner at Kulaniapia Falls: $249

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Hilo $32

Tours and Activities in Hilo

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

  • Kona Coffee Farm Tour from Tree to Tasting Room: $5.00
  • Baumkuchen Farm Tour: $5.00
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Island: $20
  • Big Island Kohala Coast Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Big Island - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour: $23
  • Experience Our Honey Farm And Beekeeping Tour: $30
  • Abalone Farm Tour: $35
  • Hamakua Coast Farm Small-Group Walking and Tasting Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilo Ghost Walks Tour: $59
  • Hawaiian Rainforest Banana Cultivation Experience: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Hilo $10


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

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 Hilo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Hilo?

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

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 The Hamptons or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and The Hamptons during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, The Hamptons is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 76°F (25°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. The Hamptons usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Hilo 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hamptons and Hilo. Many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, The Hamptons usually receives less rain than Hilo. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit The Hamptons or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hamptons as well as Hilo. Most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hilo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. In the winter, The Hamptons is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hamptons in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Hilo. The Hamptons usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Hilo 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and The Hamptons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, The Hamptons usually receives less rain than Hilo. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Hilo and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Hilo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)