The Hamptons: An Overview of the Luxurious Beach Playground in New York
Hamptons
After experiencing New York City’s fast-paced sightseeing and nightlife, you might be ready to relax.
Fortunately, the windswept beaches, opulence, and grace of the Hamptons are all within easy reach of midtown Manhattan. Situated some 152 kilometers east of New York City on the eastern tip of Long Island’s southern fork, the Hamptons are a group of about 20 coastal villages that were formerly the hub of agricultural, whaling, and fishing enterprises during the colonial era. They have since grown into luxurious communities. The Hamptons is a popular year-round resort that sees its busiest times in the summer. It is renowned across the world for its high-end dining and shopping options, artistic activities, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
How to go to the Hamptons
The most direct route is Interstate Highway 495 east from New York City to State Route 27, sometimes known as Sunrise or Montauk Highway. This important road leads into and out of the Hamptons.
Without a car, it is still possible to reach the Hamptons. From the Queens Airport Connection station on the Hampton Jitney bus line, which shuttles passengers between New York City and the Hamptons, one can go by cab to two of the major airports serving the New York City region: LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International. Making reservations is essential. Alternatively, travelers can take the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station in Manhattan to Montauk in East Hampton. The train travels for about three hours. For those who would want to arrive in the Hamptons sooner, the LIRR’s Cannonball express service offers a nonstop route between New York City and Westhampton, taking around 95 minutes.
Once you’re in the Hamptons, try the Hampton Hopper, an app-based network of turquoise buses that links villages.
Summertime Activities in the Hamptons
Sand and surf are the main summertime draws in the Hamptons. The beaches are popular with both locals and visitors, so arrive early to ensure a spot. The main beaches in Bridgehampton are frequented by Mecox, Sagg, and Ocean Road Wave riders. Kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards are available for rent at Main Beach Surf and Sport and other locations.
Wintertime in the Hamptons
In the winter, visit Montauk Point State Park to enjoy the desolate beauty of the area and unhindered views of the Atlantic Ocean. Look for frozen ponds, snow-covered vineyards, and deserted beaches in the park and its environs. Not far away lies New York’s oldest lighthouse, the Montauk Lighthouse. The nation’s first president, George Washington, constructed it in 1792.
Where to Shop in the Hamptons
Art lovers may visit the Hamptons all year round, with hundreds of galleries to choose from, including Grenning Gallery in Sag Harbor, Kathryn Markel Fine Arts in Bridgehampton, and Halsey McKay in East Hampton.
Boutiques also thrive in the Hamptons. Almost anything is available for purchase, such as clothing, jewelry, leather goods, equestrian supplies, and artwork. Keep an eye out for upscale brands such as Hermès, Alora, Toshiki, and Maryszka.
Where to Eat and Drink in the Hamptons
As befits a beachfront location, the Hamptons features superb seafood. An old favorite restaurant is Almond. Daily fresh fish is delivered to the seafood-focused French restaurant from Montauk boats. The menu at East Hampton’s Bay Kitchen Bar, which is only open in the summer, is centered around seafood. Sample the raw bar’s fresh clams, oysters, and shrimp, or the ceviche made with Montauk tuna and Maryland crab.
One of the best places to eat in the Hamptons is Wölffer Kitchen in Sag Harbor, which opened in July 2015 following years of success at the Wölffer Estate Vineyard.
Where to Stay in the Hamptons
The Hamptons’ shoreline is primarily designated for public use, hence the number of hotels and resorts along the shore is somewhat small. Still, if you want to stay beachside, it doesn’t get much closer than White Sands Resort, which is situated halfway between Amagansett and Montauk. Nestled in a 19th-century Greek revival building, the Maidstone in East Hampton provides a classic Hamptons experience.
Many visitors stay in private residences. A wide variety of lodging options are available, such as cozy cottages, condos, and single-family homes with private pools. You can search by town and pricing range at Hamptons Rentals.