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

Should you visit The Hamptons or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma 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 nightlife, food, and beaches. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a serene, relaxing, and scenic county. The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Sonoma travel costs.

The Hamptons and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in The Hamptons or Sonoma?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sonoma than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sonoma is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons is more popular for its shopping. Sonoma is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Also, Sonoma is famous for Buena Vista Winery. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is The Hamptons different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

The Hamptons
Sonoma

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

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Sonoma is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

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

The people in Sonoma know how to have a good time. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

If luxury resorts are your style, both The Hamptons and Sonoma have great options.

In The Hamptons, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.


Is The Hamptons or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

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

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

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 The Hamptons or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

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 Sonoma?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

The Hamptons is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county 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.

Sonoma is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.


Is The Hamptons or Sonoma More Beautiful?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Sonoma is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

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 Sonoma Better for Families?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Both The Hamptons and Sonoma are notable 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.

Sonoma offers lots of family activities. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is The Hamptons or Sonoma Better for Couples?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Sonoma is a world-class destination for romance. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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.


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

The Hamptons
Sonoma

Neither The Hamptons or Sonoma offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is The Hamptons or Sonoma a more walkable city?

The Hamptons
Sonoma

The Hamptons is a beach destination with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable beach destination. 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.

Sonoma is not a walkable beach destination. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or The Hamptons?

How long in The Hamptons or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either The Hamptons or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in The Hamptons due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for The Hamptons, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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

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


  • How many days in The Hamptons or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hamptons 3-7 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in The Hamptons or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. 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 one day exploring.

In Sonoma, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing county 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 Sonoma?

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sonoma is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in The Hamptons or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the serene destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sonoma 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, Sonoma 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
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    The Hamptons $267
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hamptons is $267, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hamptons $126
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hamptons $252
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in The Hamptons and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in The Hamptons or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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: Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hamptons $63
    Sonoma $134

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hamptons or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hamptons $22
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hamptons $31
    Sonoma $41


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


Which is Bigger, The Hamptons or Sonoma?

Sonoma has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of The Hamptons and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and The Hamptons during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In July, The Hamptons is generally around the same temperature as Sonoma. Daily temperatures in The Hamptons average around 76°F (25°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. The Hamptons usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. The Hamptons gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Sonoma in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hamptons and Sonoma. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In October, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Sonoma. The Hamptons gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hamptons as well as Sonoma. Many travelers come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hamptons. In the winter, The Hamptons is much colder than Sonoma. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hamptons in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Sonoma averages at about 46°F (8°C).

The Hamptons usually gets less rain in January than Sonoma. The Hamptons gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit The Hamptons or Sonoma in the Spring?

Both Sonoma and The Hamptons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to The Hamptons in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In April, The Hamptons usually receives more rain than Sonoma. The Hamptons gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and The Hamptons

The Hamptons Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)