I’ve wanted to visit the Hamptons for a very long time. There is something about this summertime hotspot in New York that has always piqued my interest. Additionally, I’ll never pass up a vacation to New York City, so I simply couldn’t say no when the chance arose to go with my buddies!
Table of Contents
About Our Trip
For those of you who are unaware of the Hamptons’ location or history… The Hamptons are a collection of seaside towns that are also referred to as Long Island. They may be reached by car from Manhattan in around three hours. Since the summer is the Hamptons’ busiest season, travel costs are high. Instead of paying roughly $700 for a nonstop journey to New York, I was able to use my Delta miles to get the flight for free. In a flash, I left the Westlake Village Inn, changed a few things in my bag, and drove to the airport.
We decided to go so last-minutely that we didn’t even have a hotel reserved for our first night. So, while I was in the air, I avidly looked for spots. Numerous locations fill up quickly, and their costs rise. We wanted to stay within a budget and refrain from overspending because this was a “fun creative” trip. The Breakers Montauk allowed us to make a reservation for one night. A charming small place that made me think of glamping. Each space is like a miniature cottage. If you need anything, they have to get it from a sister property that is about 10 minutes away because there isn’t a front desk. Leave room service out, btw. Nevertheless, there is a sweet pool and a restaurant named Semore’s that is open from midday to midnight.
Montauk Soundview was where we stayed for the second night. Definitely an improvement over Breakers, but it’s still a cheap hotel with little luxuries. We intended to use the kitchenettes in these two hotels to save some money by preparing our own meals, but we never did. We explored and took pictures in the Hamptons for three whole days. Here are some noteworthy points.
Sites to Visit
You just pay for what you choose at Seven Pounds Orchard. In order to capture pictures near the sunflower fields, we traveled out to a cute little farm in South hampton.
The park near Montauk Lighthouse shuts at 5:30, so arrive before then! We took these pictures in the back after taking a quick detour because we were running a little late. There is also a small beach where you may stroll and take in the scenery. The Montauk Lighthouse is the nation’s oldest lighthouse, a fun fact.
Beach at Flying Pond: (East Hampton) It’s not the finest location for swimming because the current appears to be very strong, but it’s a lovely east coast beach for relaxing and taking in the scenery.
Popular Montauk beach destination: Ditch Plains Beach. A stunning location to view the sunset. There are many families present, and either the beach is dog-friendly or nobody is concerned.
Young Jackie on the South Fork Exhibit: Through October 8th, the Clinton Academy Museum will host this free exhibition on the young Jackie Kennedy. A collection of pictures taken of her as a little girl with her family and at various horse events are on display.
East Hampton Walking Tour: I enjoy learning about the history of the areas I visit, and one of my favorite methods to do so is by walking tours. A booklet with 40 walking sites along the major road through East Hampton is available at the Jackie Kennedy Exhibit. Some of the structures date back to the 1770s! They even recreated a 1776-era small schoolhouse.
Where to Eat
Cost of The Surf Lodge: a popular location for excellent people viewing. Try to get a space on the patio by arriving early. Just be ready to shell out some cash. $220 was spent on entrees, 2 beverages per person, and a shared appetizer.
Liz is a major admirer of the television program “The Affair,” therefore she wanted to eat here. many possibilities for fried and seafood. I choose the vegetarian patty (not a huge seafood fan.) Although there are many tables, there is often a considerable wait. Try to visit at a strange hour.
Joni’s Diner Simple Montauk breakfast place. We brought the pick-up order we placed from this location to our hotel. Uncertain if they deliver, although they do become very active in the morning.
Fresh farm stands are fantastic places to buy fruits, vegetables, nuts, and baked items for snacks. These tiny stands can be found by the side of the road.
Baron’s Cove in Sag Harbor is a beautiful brunch location with views of the marina, yet it costs money. Request a table on the balcony if you can.
Gurney’s Resort Montauk: We had wine and a charcuterie board while sitting outside on the patio. Certainly a popular location in Montauk. They hold beach parties on Saturdays where you may rent a cabana or a launch chair. All of the young adults (20–30) congregate and party here. Get an ice cream cone from their to-go counter, which I heartily suggest. The vanilla/raspberry combination was amazing!
The 1770 House was not yet open for dinner, so we were unable to eat there. Nevertheless, it was highly recommended to us!
As we were leaving the Hamptons on Sunday morning, we had brunch at the Bridgehampton Inn. It was a peaceful location with tasty cuisine. I’m confident that it won’t take long for it to become more well-liked and crowded on the weekends.
Weather
The conditions were ideal. It was occasionally warm and humid, but mostly it was OK (especially if you’ve been to Thailand). On one of the days we were there, it rained. That evening, the sky cleared, allowing us to go outside and take in the day.
Travel
Definitely rent a vehicle! We were very delighted we decided to rent a car rather than take the Jitney (bus) to the Hamptons. We picked it up at JFK and rented it from Budget for roughly $26 per day. Having our own vehicle gave us the opportunity to explore all of Long Island without being reliant on cabs or ubers. I’ve heard that Uber has arrived in the Hamptons, and the local taxis there charge PER HEAD. Not optimal. Having our own car allowed us to save money without a doubt.
Alterations I would make
•Travel earlier in the summer or off-season – both cheaper and less hectic.
•Make prior reservations for all hotels
•Plan your travels in advance. You won’t have to waste time while you’re there looking up things to go.
•Check the times of opening and closing. There is a small town vibe in the Hamptons. Some locations close earlier than you might expect!
•Allow extra time to avoid rush hour while picking up a rental automobile from New York City. (Budget provides affordable costs, but the hour-long wait time was a result.)
•Examine the forecast before packing! I didn’t do this, and for the days it rained, I should have had a pair of appropriate rain boots and an umbrella.
•Prolong your stay in Sag Harbor. We simply ran out of time to visit the additional museums I intended to visit in this city.
