A Local-Style Guide to This Famous Summer Spot
If you’ve ever watched a movie, TV show, or scrolled through Instagram in the summertime, chances are you’ve heard someone mention “The Hamptons.” Maybe they were heading to a beach house, showing off a pool party, or just chilling at some picture-perfect spot.
But if you’re not from the area, you might be asking: Where exactly are the Hamptons in New York? And what makes this place so special?
Let’s break it all down in simple terms, with stories, tips, and a clear picture of what the Hamptons are all about.
So, Where Are the Hamptons?
The Hamptons are located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York. To get more specific, they’re a group of towns, villages, and hamlets in Suffolk County. These communities sit along the South Fork of Long Island, stretching eastward toward the Atlantic Ocean.
They’re about 100 to 120 miles from New York City, depending on where in the Hamptons you’re heading.
Key Towns That Make Up the Hamptons
When people say “the Hamptons,” they’re usually talking about a collection of upscale beach towns, including:
- Westhampton
- Southampton
- Bridgehampton
- East Hampton
- Sag Harbor
- Montauk (sometimes debated, but it’s usually included)
These areas are known for their beautiful beaches, luxury homes, art galleries, fancy restaurants, and that unmistakable summer vibe.
How Do You Get to the Hamptons?
If you’re starting from New York City, there are a few ways to get to the Hamptons:
1. By Car
This is the most flexible way to get there. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), Route 27 (also known as Sunrise Highway), and Montauk Highway will take you east straight into the Hamptons.
Travel time: It depends on traffic. On a good day, it can take 2.5 hours. But during summer weekends? Easily 4+ hours.
Pro Tip: Leave super early in the morning or mid-week to avoid the worst traffic.
2. By Train (LIRR)
The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) has a service called the Cannonball Express in summer. It departs from Penn Station and gets you to the Hamptons with fewer stops.
3. By Bus (Hampton Jitney or Hampton Luxury Liner)
These coach buses are a comfy and affordable way to reach the Hamptons. They leave from various Manhattan locations.
4. By Helicopter or Seaplane
Yes, some folks really do this. It’s fast and stylish—but obviously not the cheapest option.
Why Are the Hamptons So Famous?
It’s not just the beaches. The Hamptons are a blend of old money charm, Hollywood glitz, and New England vibes, all rolled into one.
Think of it this way: it’s where city stress meets countryside peace. That combo makes it a magnet for celebrities, artists, tech billionaires, and regular families who just want to unwind.
What Can You Do in the Hamptons?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your trip or just understanding what’s possible when you visit the Hamptons in New York.
Step 1: Choose Your Base
Each part of the Hamptons has its own personality. Here’s a breakdown:
- Westhampton – Closer to NYC, more laid-back, family-friendly.
- Southampton – Historic, posh, filled with galleries and shops.
- Bridgehampton – Farming roots with luxury living.
- East Hampton – Artistic and elite, home to A-listers.
- Montauk – Surf town vibes, rugged nature, less pretentious.
Anecdote: I once stayed in a small cottage in Montauk with friends. We hiked around the cliffs in the morning, grilled seafood at sunset, and felt miles away from NYC—even though it was only a 3-hour drive.
Step 2: Hit the Beaches
Some of the best beaches in New York are in the Hamptons. The sand is soft, the water is clean, and many spots feel totally untouched.
Popular beaches include:
- Cooper’s Beach (Southampton) – Voted one of the top beaches in the U.S.
- Main Beach (East Hampton) – Great for people-watching.
- Ditch Plains (Montauk) – Surf central.
Note: Many beaches require permits for parking. Always check the town’s website before you go.
Step 3: Explore Like a Local
Don’t just stay at the beach. The Hamptons have a lot to offer:
- Farm Stands: Stop by places like The Milk Pail or Amber Waves Farm for fresh produce.
- Wineries: Sip local wines at Wölffer Estate or Channing Daughters.
- Art Galleries: Check out the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill or smaller galleries in East Hampton.
- Shopping: From high-end boutiques to quirky local shops, there’s something for every taste.
Can You Stay Overnight?
Absolutely. You can stay in:
- Luxury resorts
- Boutique inns
- Vacation rentals
- Cozy B&Bs
- Even glamping tents!
Prices vary, but summer is peak season. Expect to pay more between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Anecdote: I once booked a weekend in June thinking I was being smart. Turns out a local film festival was happening—and everything was sold out except a tiny room above a bakery. Best. Breakfast. Ever.
Who Lives in the Hamptons?
Some people live in the Hamptons year-round, but many are “weekenders” — folks who have second homes and come out just for the summer.
You’ll see a mix of:
- Wealthy retirees
- NYC professionals escaping for the weekend
- Artists and musicians
- Seasonal workers and business owners
The population explodes in summer, then quiets down dramatically in the fall and winter.
Best Time to Visit the Hamptons
The Hamptons are a summer hotspot, with the most activity from late May to early September. But if you prefer quiet charm, try:
- Fall (September–October): Harvest events, fewer crowds.
- Spring (April–May): Blooming flowers, mild weather.
- Winter (December–March): Cozy, but much is closed.
Is the Hamptons Only for the Rich?
Not at all — though it’s definitely known for luxury. That said, you can visit the Hamptons on a budget with smart planning.
Tips to Save Money:
- Go mid-week instead of weekends
- Visit off-season
- Stay in shared rentals or nearby towns
- Bring your own food or hit local delis
- Use public beaches
Quick Fun Facts About the Hamptons
- Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Robert Downey Jr., and Jerry Seinfeld all have homes here.
- The first settlers arrived in the 1600s.
- Montauk has one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S.
- The Hamptons are a backdrop for shows like Revenge, The Affair, and Succession.
- There’s a town called Amagansett — its name comes from the Montaukett Native American word for “place of good water.”
Recap: Where Are the Hamptons in New York?
To sum it all up:
- The Hamptons are in eastern Long Island, in Suffolk County, New York.
- They’re made up of several towns and villages on the South Fork.
- You can reach them by car, train, or bus from NYC.
- The area is known for beaches, food, art, and high-end living.
- You don’t have to be rich to enjoy the vibe — just plan ahead!
Final Thought: Why Go to the Hamptons?
Whether you want to surf, sip wine, browse art, or just lie on the sand and read a book, the Hamptons in New York are worth checking out. It’s where nature, culture, and a little glamour come together.
Even if you don’t spot a celebrity, you’ll leave with a sun-kissed glow and a story worth telling.