If you’re looking for a cross-costal summer adventure, jump across the pond and check out the coastal playground of New York weekenders: The Hamptons. In and amidst the seaside mansions and luxury comforts, the Long Island oasis offers something for everyone. From magical sunsets, stunning beaches, local wineries, charming artisan boutiques, gourmet dining, live music, art museums, and interior design shows, there’s a reason behind the allure. Here’s our inside scoop on the best places to shop, eat, play, and dream while in the Hamptons.
Where To Eat
Carissa’s Bakery has an exquisite blend of delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads within a stunning appealing chic interior. The sunny and airy space produces on-site European-style bread, viennoiserie, and vibrant floral-inspired cakes. The pastrami sandwich is a must-try especially if you don’t know what else to order. The Golden Pear Cafe is a local gem, offering quality coffee, big breakfast options, and sandwiches for dine-in, takeout, or outdoor picnics, all with a comforting homey atmosphere. Overlooking the water, Bell & Anchor in Sag Harbor is a charming New American spot celebrated for its waterfront view and friendly staff. Not to mention its delectable Lobster rigatoni and mussels which are an absolute must. Tutto Il Giorno in Southampton serves as a bustling hub for both locals and visitors, with authentic rustic Italian pasta and a lively Hamptons ambiance. Last but not least, The Lobster Roll, affectionately named LUNCH, in darling Amagansett and South Hampton. This spot goes back to its roots as a seafood hotspot while being by far the most famous place to get Lobster Rolls in the Hamptons. This retro-style seafood shack is a South Fork day tripper’s and summer vacationer’s favorite, due to its range of dishes from classic Hot and Cold Lobster Rolls to grilled, broiled, fried, and stuffed seafood, steaks, puffers, and homemade chowders, making it an ideal stop for any time of day. Duryea’s is a popular Montauk-set deck restaurant filled with gourmet seafood and plenty of weekenders. Lastly, Moby’s in East Hampton offers a plethora of vibes and eats, the best of New York City food, with the best of quintessential Hamptons vibes.
Carissa’s Bakery
But if you love European wine, you’re in luck! Vin Sur Vingt , which is a popular hotspot in Manhattan, has come to Sag Harbor is the newest addition to this idyllic village. It is a French style wine bar and bistro with familiar classics, like Croque monsieur, steak au poivre and tapas-style items. Expect the unexpected with a rotating French wine list of over 200 bottles. There are at least 15 white and 15 red options from Bordeaux, Loire and Provençe which are consistently available by the glass.
Where to Shop
Plain and simple: Head to East Hampton. Stroll along the main drag either direction and hit all that luxury has to offer. As expected, there is no shortage of style and incredible clothes to buy amidst the chic boutiques from the playful artisan stores in Sag Harbor to the more luxury staples in East Hampton. Embarking on a shopping spree in the Hamptons is like stepping into a wonderland of adorable upscale boutiques and charming finds. Stroll through Southampton, where Fivestory and Veronica Beard await with curated collections of fashion delights that practically wink at you. In Montauk, stop by Lingua Franca and Cynthia Rowley to be presented with the most unique and stylish finds. Staying in Montauk, Wyld Blue will capture its full essence and transfer it right to your closet, while Joey Wölffer brings a local touch of Sag Harbor to your shopping bags. For a touch of luxury, Gucci and Zimmermann in East Hampton showcase high-end fashion that will leave you feeling oh-so posh. In East Hampton, Figue, One, and TENET offer distinct fashion-forward styles and an unparalleled shopping experiences. The shopping journey wouldn’t be complete without exploring Blue One‘s adorable offerings that add a pop of playfulness to any outfit.
Wyldblue in Montauk
Where to Stay
Complete your perfect getaway at any of these enchanting Hampton’s Retreats that are sure to make you feel like luxury. Gurney’s Montauk Resort is an idyllic spot with stunning Atlantic ocean views and island-like Bungalows By The Sea. If that hasn’t whisked you away yet, enjoy the luxury spa, heated saltwater pool, seawater wellness treatment, or even rejuvenating therapeutic bodywork. Want a taste of Cali on the East Coast? Dine on contemporary coastal cuisine, featuring local produce and seafood fresh off the incoming fishing boats all while experiencing their Summer Series Concert Series 2023. The Maidstone Hotel is nestled on the main road running through East Hampton, a short walk away from the most popular stroll and shopping districts in town. This year they have teamed up with Sezane to bring guests custom totes and a stylish “cherry on top” to their experience. Bridgehampton’s finest manor, Topping Rose, is a 19th-century mansion turned into a modern and charming luxe hotel, with spacious guest rooms blending historic charm with contemporary comforts. The hotel’s restaurant, Jean-Georges’ farm-to-fork, offers an expression of artisan dishes made with ingredients from Long Island. Looking for a cozy retreat, we’ve got you covered for that too! Amagansett’s The Roundtree is home to 16 private cottages and barns recognized as Travel + Leisure’s It List Hotel and Vogues charming getaway, not to mention the location has one of the prettiest beaches to see in the Hamptons.
What To Do
Hanging out in the Hamptons, there is no shortage of things to do. You can relax on the beach or go for a scenic hike. Coopers Beach in South Hampton has a stunning white sand shoreline, offering a scenic setting for picnics and summer swims while ranking among the top US beaches yearly. The Montauk Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest in America, provides an excellent nature hike and breathtaking panoramic views of surfers and the Long Island peninsula’s captivating beauty. Hither Hills State Park features unique “walking dunes”on Napeague Harbor’s eastern boundary, surrounded by rich woodlands filled with Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine trees. Additionally, the picturesque hiking trails offer a great way to enjoy and experience the Hamptons’ breathtaking landscape. You can also spend a day with a booked itinerary – check out the Hamptons tour that takes you to Southampton, enjoy wine at one of the most renowned wineries, tours Sag Harbor, and finish off the day with some shopping at Tanger Outlets. The Surf Lodge is the hotspot for all-day laidback dining, DJ’s, outdoor bar lounging, live music, and rubbing shoulders with the who’s who of the Hamptons and the city and if you’re looking for a stunnign dinner hotspot with views, Crows Nest in Montauk is a chic scene to have a drink and enjoy panoramic landscape.
The Surf Lodge
If you want to get a workout in while on vacay, hey we won’t judge. The Hamptons love their fitness and have a variety of workouts to offer. If you’re in the mood for some hardcore fitness action, head to Barrys Bootcamp in East Hampton, where you can sign up for the studio’s signature 40-minute Abs, Arms, Ass class at one of their four Hamptons locations. For fitness on a bicylce and the ultimate wellness escape, Soul Cycle is now in Bridge Hampton and Montauk. Hop on a bike to earn your weekend spritz and lobster roles and break a sweat heading into your next excursion.
