TRAVEL JOURNAL: The Hamptons
Get ready to add some coastal cool to your Insta feed! The Hamptons is where the stylish, the affluent, and the in-the-know escape to for some sun, sand, and sea. And lucky for you, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best places to stay, play, and dine. So buckle up, grab your shades, and let’s take a trip to the Hamptons – New York City’s hottest summer playground.
First up, let’s talk about where to stay. From beachside motels to upscale resorts, we’ve got the lowdown on the best spots to rest your head. And when it comes to dining in the Hamptons, we’ve got you covered with the most mouth-watering bites from the freshest farm-to-table spots to the tastiest seafood shacks. And last but not least, don’t miss out on our top picks for what to do, from sipping on rosé at a local vineyard to catching some rays on the beach. So grab your bestie or your boo and get ready for a Hamptons adventure you’ll never forget.
Let’s go!
Where to Stay in The Hamptons
+Marram Montauk
This casual motel along the beach is a 7-minute walk from the shops and restaurants in the village center, and 4 miles from Lake Montauk.
Simple rooms all include microwaves and mini-fridges. Upgraded rooms add terraces or balconies with ocean views. Suites feature living rooms and/or kitchenettes.
Parking is available. There’s a seasonal cafe, an outdoor pool, and a sundeck with ocean views. Other amenities include a BBQ area, a game room, lawn games and a coin-operated laundry. Minimum-stay rules may apply.
+Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa
Set 2 miles from Hither Hills State Park, this modern, oceanfront resort is also 4 miles from Montauk station.
The chic, airy rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs, iPod docks and free Wi-Fi, plus Nespresso machines, mini-fridges and wet bars. Many rooms also feature private verandas, while 1- and 2-bedroom suites have separate living areas. Freestanding 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom cottages have kitchens, beamed ceilings and sunken living rooms, plus fireplaces and terraces.
The hotel has beach access, beachfront restaurants and bars, plus a full-service spa, a heated indoor saltwater pool and a gym. Freebies include parking and shuttle service.
+The Maidstone Hotel
This Scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel, housed in a 19th-century property, is a 10-minute walk from historic East Hampton Village and 0.9 miles from the Main Beach.
The chic, eclectic rooms feature different themes, ranging from old-world regality to contemporary Finnish design. All have private bathrooms (some with claw-foot tubs), Wi-Fi, TVs, DVD players, safes, minibars, and tea and coffeemaking equipment. There are also 3 Swedish-style cottages.
Continental breakfast is available. Other amenities include a restaurant, a spa service and a garden with seating. There are also beach parking permits and bikes for hire.
+Topping Rose House
Housed in a 1842 Greek Revival-style mansion with a contemporary annex, this ultra-chic hotel is 13 minutes’ walk from Bridgehampton train station and 3 miles from Ocean Road Beach.
Polished rooms in the main house offer period features, as well as flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, free Wi-Fi and minibars. Modern annex rooms add floor-to-ceiling windows; some have terraces. Suites provide rooftop terraces and/or living areas. Room service is available 24/7.
Free perks include parking, and breakfast served in a stylish high-end restaurant that has a terrace and a hip bar. There’s also a spa, a gym and an outdoor pool.
What to Do
+Crow’s Nest
The property is huge and the beach bar is an excellent low key, yet sceney hang for a happy hour cocktail by the water. Come early to put your name in for dinner and to watch the sunset while you wait. It’s going to be a while so come early. Like, before 6pm early. If you can’t get a table you can still enjoy bites. the ricotta is a staple.
+Wolffer Estate Vineyard
Perched atop a slight rise, the charming Wölffer Estate Wine Stand has become the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights and is a popular pitstop on the way to the beach or home to the city. Offering all Wölffer wines and ciders or for purchase to-go, the Wine Stand has a casual ambiance with a spectacular view of the vineyard and breathtaking sunsets. Savor the wines and watch the sun sink behind the vineyard.
+Montauk Lighthouse
A visit to the historic Montauk Lighthouse is a must-do when in the Hamptons. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and explore the museum to learn about the lighthouse’s rich history.
+Main Beach Surf and Sport
Experience the Hamptons like a local with a day at the beach, complete with surfing lessons, beach volleyball, and paddleboarding rentals. Main Beach Surf and Sport is a one-stop-shop for all your beach needs, with friendly staff and high-quality equipment.
+Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center
Art lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, the former home and studio of artists Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. Take a guided tour of the property to see their original art and personal belongings, and learn about their fascinating lives and work.
What to Eat in The Hamptons
+Duryea’s
If you’re in the mood for seafood, look no further than Duryea’s. This place is a must-visit, and my go-to order is their famous lobster roll, served with a side of fries and a refreshing glass of rosé. The view of the water is breathtaking, and you can’t beat the ambiance.
+Carissa’s
If you’re a bread lover like me, you won’t want to miss Carissa’s. Their artisanal bread is baked fresh every day, and I always make sure to grab a loaf of their olive bread when it’s available. I also recommend trying their sheep or goat cheese from Meredith Farm, which pairs perfectly with the bread.
+Bhumi Farm
For fresh produce, make a stop at Bhumi Farm. Their heirloom tomatoes and veggies are perfect for summer BBQs and will add a pop of color and flavor to any dish.
+Round Swamp Farm
Round Swamp Farm is a local favorite for their prepared foods. They have everything from salads to baked goods to the best chicken fingers and honey mustard dip you’ll ever try. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust me, it’s worth it.
