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

Should you visit The Hamptons or Monterey?

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 Monterey 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 food, beaches, and hiking. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Monterey travel costs.

The Hamptons and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while The Hamptons is more popular for its resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Monterey is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

Monterey 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 Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Monterey 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, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Monterey know how to have a good time. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 The Hamptons or Monterey Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

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

Monterey is a city 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 Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

The Hamptons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is The Hamptons or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Both The Hamptons and Monterey 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.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is The Hamptons or Monterey Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hamptons or Monterey?

The Hamptons is an amazing beach destination to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is The Hamptons or Monterey More Beautiful?

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

The Hamptons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. For a beautiful, upscale setting, this is a great destination near NYC.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is The Hamptons or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey 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.

Monterey is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

Both The Hamptons and Monterey are very good 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.

Monterey is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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

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

Monterey is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Monterey 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

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 Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hamptons and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Monterey. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

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

One day in The Hamptons or Monterey?

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.

In Monterey, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in The Hamptons or Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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.

Five days in The Hamptons or Monterey?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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.

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.

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

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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

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

In July, The Hamptons is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 76°F (25°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. The Hamptons usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit The Hamptons or Monterey in the Autumn?

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

The Hamptons is cooler than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hamptons averages around 58°F (14°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Monterey. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit The Hamptons or Monterey in the Winter?

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

The Hamptons can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, The Hamptons is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hamptons in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The Hamptons usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit The Hamptons or Monterey in the Spring?

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

In April, The Hamptons is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 51°F (11°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Monterey. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and The Hamptons