If you’re looking for an end-of-summer adventure, jump across the pond and check out the coastal playground for the A-listers of New York: 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.
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
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? The Surf Lodge is the hotspot for all-day laidback dining, outdoor bar lounging, live music, and rubbing shoulders with the who’s who of the Hamptons and the city. 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. 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.
The Surf Lodge
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 Montauk Point Lighthouse
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 Pilates, head over to New York Pilates, 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 that covers everything from the gym, classes, and facilities, you can’t get better than Equinox. This summer, it’s exciting to have the institution back up and running at the Bridgehampton location for the summer. It is also opening up to non-members for the second year in a row. Yup, anyone can book a single class ($50) or a day guest pass ($75).
NYP in East Hampton
We love that there is always something to do in the Hamptons. From mixers, to live performances and clambakes here is a list of things to do if you happen to be in the area.
Royal Botania Showcase at Holiday House Hamptons
Now until August 27th, Friday – Sunday from 10:00am – 6:00pm
Location: 279 Mitchell Lane Bridgehampton, NY 11932
If you’re an interior design aficionado, you’re in for a treat! The Holiday House, founded in 2008 by interior designer and breast cancer survivor Iris Dankner, is a showcase of interior and exterior creativity where twenty top designers push the boundaries of design to furnish 9000 square feet of luxury living on three levels of a Hamptons estate. Our favorite display comes from Royal Botania which is a Belgian outdoor furniture line that partnered with KRID studio to create a warm and chic outdoor setting that emulates the natural shapes and colors of the Hamptons surroundings. Be sure to check out their new Organix lounge which marries comfort with stunning curves and minimalistic architecture. The unique brass Cuprum planters also create an elevated touch of luxury to the balcony area.
Kaoru Watanabe
August 19th, 5 – 7pm
Location: The Arts Center at Duck Creek (127 Squaw Road.)
Indulge your musical curiosity and enjoy an evening with composer and musician Kaoru Watanabe. His work is grounded in traditional Japanese music while drawing on his background in Western classical music and as a jazz flutist and saxophonist. Recent projects include an orchestral soloist and composer with the Sydney Symphony at the Sydney Opera House, advisor, composer, and featured musician on the Oscar-nominated score of Wes Anderson’s film Isle of Dogs, and guest artist on the Silk Road Ensemble’s Grammy Award-winning album, “Sing Me Home.” As always, concert audience members are encouraged to bring a beach chair, a picnic and enjoy the evening! All events are FREE, but space and parking are limited, so please arrive early, and be considerate of our neighbors. More info here.
Hampton Flea & Vintage Market Montauk Second House Museum
August 20th, 10am-5pm
Location: 626 Montauk Highway (Opposite Hero Beach Club)
Come and experience the thrill of vintage hunting at Hampton Flea + Vintage, the first-ever market of its kind on the East End of Long Island. This outdoor event features a curated selection of vendors showcasing one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, collectibles, up-cycled furniture, and hand-crafted goods. Enjoy the thrill of the vintage hunt while supporting a more sustainable way to shop and live. The best part is that this is FREE to the public. More info here.
Chelsea Handler at the Clubhouse Hamptons
August 26th, 7pm
Location: 174 Daniels Hole Road, East Hampton, NY, 11937
Have a laugh in the Hamptons as Emmy-winning standup comedian Chelsea Handler takes to the stage at the Clubhouse. Handler is a television host, six-time New York Times best-selling author and advocate whose humor and candor have established her as one of the most celebrated voices in entertainment and pop culture. A portion of every ticket sold goes to support Project Most and Pitch Your Peers. Doors open at 5:00pm with a pre-show BBQ. Register for the event here.
Sunset Pier Cinema Presents “Hook” at Montauk Yacht Club
August 30th, 8.30pm
Location: 32 Star Island Rd. Montauk, NY 11954
Let laughter and excitement fill the air as the sun sets and the silver screen comes to life. Share the joy of an old classic, “Hook” with the whole family at gorgeous Sunset Pier. Get a spot now.
Blond:ish @ The Surf Lodge
September 2nd, 4:00pm
Location: 174 Daniels Hole Road East Hampton, NY 11937
SurfLodge is known for drawing the best local and international acts, and their Summer Series of 2023 lineup totally lives up to its promise. Artists have included Aloe Blacc, Busta Rhymes, ARIZONA and more. If you haven’t made it to the Hamptons yet, it’s not too late. Snap up a ticket to one of the hottest acts Bondi:ish playing for Labor Day weekend, it will absolutely be worth the jitney ride.
Pasta Ramen x Kissaki Pop-Up
Now until August 28th (Sunday & Monday)
Location: 670 Montauk Hwy Suite E, Water Mill NY 11976
The Private Omakase Room at Kissaki in Water Mill is housing pastaRAMEN’s Hamptons Summer Pop Up. pastaRAMEN’s James Beard Nominated Executive Chef Robbie Felice is known for his irresistible Wafu (Japanese Inspired) Italian and will serve up an 8 course dinner with standout dishes like Truffle Porcini Ramen, Mochi Ramen & Kaluga Caviar and in-house dry-aged Japanese A5 Wagyu. Just $250 per person. For more info, visit www.pastaramen.com or check them out on IG.
Feature image from @thesurflodge
