Posh neighborhoods, lavish beach homes, and P-Diddy. These are just a few ingredients that comprise the upscale seaside area known as the Hamptons. Associated with decadence, wealth, and celebrity sightings, the swanky Hamptons act as an East Coast counterpart to Southern California's Malibu.
Covering most of eastern Long Island's south fork, "the Hamptons" generally refers to the towns of Easthampton and Southampton, which consist of dozens of small hamlets and villages, some more glamorous than others. This doesn't mean visitors should overlook the less ostentatious neighborhoods. Shopping on Main Street in Southampton village is hardly understated with its fine dining, chic boutiques, and upscale art galleries. But, sometimes a more down-to-earth itinerary allows for a mellower vacation and a thicker wallet.
The village of Westhampton, which falls within Southampton town borders, offers a more classic beach town experience than its upscale cousins, Easthampton and Southampton villages. The better part of famous Dune Road runs through Westhampton, housing Cupsogue Beach at its most western point. Cupsogue is a local favorite, for good reason. Its sapphire swells and fine sand offer beachgoers a prime spot to throw a Frisbee or body surf the Atlantic. After catching some rays, visitors can have a cocktail and some good old grub at John Scott's Raw Bar (546 Dune Road) a half-mile down the road.
The Hamptons have dozens of beaches that appeal to every type of visitor. Main Beach in Easthampton has a family-friendly atmosphere, while Coopers Beach in Southampton village has been voted one of the top 10 in the world by several outlets. Beaches aside, the Hamptons are almost equally known for unparalleled nightlife.
Neptune Beach Club (70 Dune Road) is one of the most popular around these parts. Located in the smaller hamlet of East Quogue, Neptune has gained the reputation for attracting the "beautiful people" of the Hamptons. And after 20 years of business, the venue has proved its staying power in the fickle world of nightclubs. Lily Pond (44 Three Mile Harbor Road) in East Hampton is for the more celebrity-obsessed visitors. Bar lovers shouldn't fret if the trendy club scene isn't for them, however — they can join the rowdy crowd down at Buckley's Inn (139 West Montauk Highway), Hampton Bays, for a beer pong tournament or two.
The Hamptons demand more than one trip. Almost everyone can find something to do, whether they're an adventurer, club hopper, or beach bum. Ask any local and you'll hear that the Hamptons are not just about fame and money. But, it doesn't hurt to have either of those when visiting.
Attraction Information
- Directions, by car:
- Long Island Expressway (I-495) east to exit 70. South on CR-111. Get on to 27-East (Sunrise Highway). This will bring you right into the heart of Southampton. Keep driving east and you will hit East Hampton. For Westhampton take exit 63-S off 27-East.
- Directions, by train:
- Take Montauk line. After leaving Penn Station (NYC), change trains at Jamaica station. This line stops at all major stops in the Hamptons. Entire train ride ranges from two-and-a-half to just over three hours.
- Useful links:
- Guide to the Hamptons and East End of Long Island: www.hamptons.com
- Hampton Jitney: www.hamptonjitney.com
