The Hamptons Guide: Where to Spend, Swim & Frolic this Summer

The Hamptons offers a fresh and endless string of luxuries perfect for unwinding after a long work week or an even longer year — whether it’s your first visit or your go-to every summer. Located on the eastern end of Long Island’s South Fork, this iconic resort area is known for its pristine beaches, affluent residents, and vibrant social scene. But the Hamptons aren’t just one destination—they’re a collection of charming towns and villages, stretching from the historic elegance of Southampton to the laid-back surf vibes of Montauk, making summering in the Hamptons a go-to.

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Dining in The Hamptons

The Beacon – Sag Harbor Perched above a yacht club with front-row seats to Sag Harbor Bay’s golden hour, The Beacon is a masterclass in coastal allure. Arrive for the view, stay for the lobster rigatoni and steamed mussels that somehow taste like summer itself.

Calissa – Water Mill Effortlessly channeling the spirit of Mykonos, Calissa is where the Aegean meets the East End in dazzling style. Now in its eighth season, this coastal-chic destination is equal parts restaurant and Riviera-style retreat—known just as much for its fresh seafood and luminous rosé list as it is for its raucous summer parties and live music under the stars. With indoor and al fresco seating, an award-winning wine program, and a menu rooted in Greek island tradition, Calissa is as radiant and reliable as its namesake constellation in the summer sky.

Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House – Bridgehampton Set in a 19th-century manse surrounded by a lush working farm, this Jean-Georges outpost channels countryside grandeur with a seasonal, vegetable-forward menu. Each dish is plated with pastoral elegance, rooted in the rhythms of the estate.

Si Si – East Hampton A love letter to Mediterranean dining, Si Si is a marina-side stunner that’s equal parts glamour and substance. Don’t miss the branzino or tomahawk steak carved tableside—and toast to five years of refined revelry at this EHP Resort gem.

Le Bilboquet – Sag Harbor Effortlessly blending Upper East Side polish with the sun-kissed ease of St. Tropez, Le Bilboquet brings its signature joie de vivre to Sag Harbor. Pair the legendary Cajun chicken with waterfront oysters, and lean into the Hamptons' haute scene.

Il Buco al Mare – Amagansett Rustic romance meets oceanside bounty at this Amagansett iteration of the beloved Il Buco. Expect wood-fired fish, delicate Iberian tinned treasures, and a menu that treats local produce like precious jewels.

Stone Creek Inn – East Quogue A destination for lovers of refined French fare, Stone Creek Inn captures the understated elegance of an old-world countryside escape. Its seasonal soft-shell crab and polished service make it a staple for intimate, unforgettable evenings.

Lulu Kitchen and Bar – Sag Harbor Lulu's wood-burning oven anchors this lively Sag Harbor bistro, where fire meets finesse. Go for the grilled whole branzino or wood-fired lunch pizzas, but stay for the bold flavors that define this year-round favorite.

Ocean Club Montauk – Montauk Where sea meets sophistication, Ocean Club Montauk delivers a refined waterfront escape. Helmed by South African chef Jarad McCarroll, expect delicate lobster pappardelle, buttermilk fried chicken, and a raw bar that rivals any Mediterranean riviera.

Camp Rubirosa – East Hampton Rubirosa’s East Hampton debut is a nostalgic ode to summer—equal parts red-sauce revelry and upscale camp fantasy. Sunday dinners are a ritual here, with signature pies and family-style classics served under vintage pennants and string lights.

Flora – Westhampton Beach Flora feels like a breath of fresh air—light-filled, unpretentious, and blooming with charm. The food skews bright and seasonal: crispy chicken sandwiches, pear salads, and the sort of fare that feels just right after a long beach day.

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Where to Shop in The Hamptons

In East Hampton Ralph Lauren, Gucci, and Chanel anchor the luxury shopping experience. Each flagship boutique offers a curated selection of fashion, accessories, and fine jewelry, making the area a go-to for high-end retail therapy in the Hamptons.

In Sag Harbor, shops like Ryland Life Equipment and Matta offer a distinctive shopping experience with an eclectic mix of apparel, home goods, and accessories—perfect for those with a taste for globally inspired, bohemian design.

Also in Sag Harbor, Black Swan Antiques is a treasure trove for vintage lovers. The shop is filled with carefully sourced pieces that range from rustic to refined, drawing in collectors and curious browsers alike.

Bridgehampton boasts stylish boutiques like Blue One where elevated fashion meets a relaxed, coastal sensibility. These shops are known for their designer selections, trendy edits, and effortless luxury.

In Montauk, Montauk Boardriders and Air & Speed Surf Shop serve the town’s vibrant surf culture. Both shops stock a range of surfboards, wetsuits, and laid-back beachwear, perfect for locals and visitors alike chasing sun and surf.

Rounding out Montauk’s coastal vibe, boutiques like Local Knit and Kailani offer casual fashion and accessories with a boho, beachy flair—ideal for those embracing Montauk’s signature relaxed style.

In Amagansett, Tiina the Store is a destination for minimalist, high-quality pieces from international designers, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainability. The boutique blends Scandinavian sensibility with beach-town ease.

Also in Amagansett, Love Adorned offers a curated mix of artisan jewelry, vintage home goods, and handmade treasures. Each item feels personal and one-of-a-kind, making the shop a favorite for unique finds and thoughtful gifts.

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The Best Swimming Spots in The Hamptons

Ditch Plains Beach, Montauk

18 Ditch Plains Rd., Montauk

Beloved by surfers and sunseekers alike, Ditch Plains is pure Montauk magic. With rolling waves, a coastal trail, and a laid-back vibe, this beach has become a hotspot for bodyboarders, hikers, and families. A nearby concession stand and restrooms make it easy to stay all day — just don’t forget your board.

Main Beach, East Hampton

101 Ocean Ave., East Hampton

Quintessentially East Hampton, Main Beach pairs lifeguard-protected waters with sweeping ocean views and an elegant pavilion for shade or seaside snacks. Ideal for long beach days and postcard-perfect sunset walks, this is where effortless luxury meets natural beauty.

Sagg Main Beach, Sagaponack

1200 Sagg Main St., Sagaponack

Tucked at the end of Sagg Main Street, this beach is a local favorite for its soft sand and festive summer energy. On weekend evenings, the shoreline transforms with drumming circles and the occasional fire dancer, giving this Sagaponack gem an enchanting, bohemian edge.

Foster Memorial Beach, Sag Harbor

1000 Noyack-Long Beach Rd., Sag Harbor

Known to locals as Long Beach, this tranquil mile-long stretch along Noyack Bay is perfect for families. Calm waters, grassy picnic spots, and scenic benches make it ideal for laid-back afternoons — and a welcome break from the ocean’s bustle.

Atlantic Avenue Beach, Amagansett

191 Atlantic Ave., Amagansett

This lifeguard-protected beach at the end of Atlantic Avenue is the heartbeat of summer in Amagansett. With on-site parking, a concession stand, and clean restrooms, it’s a seamless beach day with all the essentials — perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just grabbing a snack between dips.

Ponquogue Beach, Hampton Bays

280 Dune Rd., Hampton Bays

With its sleek, newly redeveloped pavilion featuring skylights, showers, and changing rooms, Ponquogue Beach feels like a coastal upgrade. One of the most popular beaches in the Hamptons, it buzzes with activity and energy all summer long.

Two Mile Hollow Beach, East Hampton

50 Two Mile Hollow Rd., East Hampton

Wide, quiet, and often dotted with dolphin sightings, Two Mile Hollow is an East Hampton favorite for those in the know. Bring a towel, a book, and a beach chair — this is your spot for serenity, sand, and a front-row seat to nature.

Georgica Beach, East Hampton

219 Lily Pond Lane, East Hampton

For those seeking something a bit more secluded, Georgica Beach delivers. This serene shoreline offers pristine waters, sun-drenched seclusion, and a rugged stone jetty that draws in local fishermen. No concessions here — just sea, sky, and silence.

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