To re-discover The Hamptons, as our collective, global memory of the high-COVID-19 pandemic wains, is to witness a diaspora even more entertaining, astoundingly wealthy and manicured than before. You may think Manhattan’s 1% fled to London and Palm Beach, however, the East End of New York State’s Long Island has evolved into a year-round, coastal paradise in which to see, be seen, to splurge and to chicly explore. A departure from the chaos, smog and pace of nearby Manhattan and Brooklyn; ownership or the opportunity to vacation in The Hamptons is highly coveted, thanks to its preference amongst the world’s über rich and famous, most of whom reside in colossal homes in this exclusive and private, summer season Mecca. While the population and general bustle of The Hamptons has swelled, there remains a mix of high and low; haves and have-nots– all of which engage, interact and give a more accepting and inviting sense of community than one may think.

Frequently accessible by private jet, helicopter, yacht or Bentley motor vehicle; this world class beach enclave can also be accessed by mere mortals via the Long Island Rail Road, the Jitney motorcoach from New York City, in addition to the Cross Sound Ferry from Connecticut to Orient Point.

Southampton Inn’s tony address, 91 Hill Street, couldn’t be more centrally located adjacent to the jaw-dropping summer estates of Lily Pond or the delicious nearby Hamptons eateries and fabulous shopping. Additionally, the Inn’s proximity to Watermill and the North Fork is by way of Route 27 and high-street Riverhead. This translates and enables easy access to the rest of The Hamptons, Montauk, Shelter Island and the North Fork of Long Island, New York.

Dede Gotthelf, the local owner of the Southampton Inn, has ensured that her property offers nearly every resort amenity any guests could want, without stuffiness or lack of comfort. The airy and simple décor is complimented by beds so comfortable that you will have no choice, except to sleep in them and you can still experience the very best of the East End without wheels: Play croquet, volleyball, badminton or tennis on the inn’s pristine lawns and all-weather tennis court. Bicycle rentals are a breeze to explore where one can’t walk or just to avoid the aggressive traffic. There’s a surprising amount of popularity with the Inn’s Shuffleboard court, yet it’s jolly and inviting. Afterwards, open a bottle of bubbles or rouge in one of the many garden nooks (the front desk has plenty of good pours).     

You would be crazy not to meander downtown Southampton by foot from the hotel: Shopping at the nearby local and designer boutiques along Jobs Lane and Main Street. Gasp or drool with envy at the summer cottages, compounds and family estates along Gin Lane and Agawam Lake.

If you do not find yourself with a driver or elect to keep your boat at the marina for a much-needed break on land: Inn perks include an easy shuttle to Cooper’s Beach. Of course the courteous and unobtrusive staff is quite well versed in organizing charter or yacht rentals, fishing expeditions, hiking and horseback riding as equestrian culture is very much a part of life out east.

No matter how long your excursion to The Hamptons may be, an absolute must for culture is a visit to both the incredible Parrish Art Museum and the Pollock-Krasner House. For relaxing afternoons, there are noteworthy vineyards on both the South Fork (The Hamptons) and the Northfork (Orient Point, Greenport). The Wolffer Estate Winery is a stone’s throw away from the Southampton Inn and is our top choice for a boozy time. Greenport is the North Fork town to visit for a day trip and a drive out to Montauk is always worthwhile. In East Hampton, you’ll discover more jaw-dropping shopping and culinary offerings. Sag Harbor exemplifies an All-American coastal village, yet the hamlet is even more refined. Swing by Le Bilboquet to see and be seen followed by une brève visite to Amagansett to experience all that is cool and costly. Do not forget to traipse Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge, Montauk Point State Park, Hallock State Park Preserve, Shadmoor State Park, and Amagansett Beach as well.

Either way, when you have wined and dined all about the über-luxurious Hamptons–tucked into your dreamy bed back at The Inn– you’ll have much beauty to ponder and relish.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Claude’s Restaurant

91 Hill Street, Southampton, New York

The Southampton Inn’s cozy Claude’s Restaurant, led by Executive Chef, Giancarlo Dellanzo, is a fantastic place to start your day with a satisfying breakfast, especially with morning sunlight hitting the outdoor tables nestled within the inn’s garden courtyard.

Union Burger Bar

40 Bowden Square, Southampton, New York

Executive Chef Scott Kampf adds a fresh spin to American burgers, which accommodate all diets and restrictions. Union Burger Bar may be the only place where one can genuinely turn down the posturing and noise, while digging into flavorful grub and good vibes. Try the Union double burger, composed of two 5 oz patties, American cheese, applewood bacon compote, lettuce, tomato and onion hay on a Martin’s potato bun or the Coop classic chicken sandwich that combines crispy fried chicken breast, Sriracha garlic mayo and pickles on a Martin’s potato bun

Demarchelier Bistro

71 Main Street, Greenport, New York

Owner Emily Demarchelier cooly and tastefully takes great pride in a restaurant that is à la française with authenticity: refined without pretensions thus fostering an alluring ambiance void of stress. This is certainly Greenport dining at its best. Subtle design touches like marble top tables and the antique bar to permit a familiar Parisian, culinary escapism. An added plus is Demarchelier Bistro’s curated rotation of colorful paintings for sale and menu winners such as Steak Tartare, Duck Confit, Salade Niçoise à la Classique, Pommes Dauphine as well as a quiche of the Day. Start with a Bordeaux or Bourgogne and Demarchelier’s satisfying Salade de Carottes Rapées. Bon Appétit!

Murf’s

64 Division Street. Sag Harbor, New York

The Hamptons’  most legendary watering hole and dive bar: The joint where locals, dockhands and trust fund brats commingle, albeit drunkenly. Music that will have you laughing and singing as well as an atmosphere so warm, silly and bygone, Murf’s will be your favorite place.

Suggested Marinas for Full-Sized Yachts

Strong’s Marine Southampton Shinnecock Bay Marina

74 Little Neck Road, Southampton, New York

423 Three Mile Harbor

Hog Creek Rd, 39 Gann Rd, East Hampton, New York

Sag Harbor Cove

8 W Water Street, Sag Harbor, New York