where to stay in the hamptons

Where to Stay in the Hamptons: A Complete Guide to Your Perfect New England Getaway

Whether you’re chasing the turquoise waves of Montauk, strolling the quaint streets of East Hampton, or simply craving a quiet retreat on a sprawling estate, the Hamptons offer a dazzling array of lodging options. From ultra‑glamorous resorts and swanky boutique hotels to cozy bed‑and‑breakfasts and off‑the‑grid glamping, there’s something for every traveler–and every budget.

Below is a travel‑savvy roundup of the best places to stay in the Hamptons, complete with neighborhood highlights, key amenities, and insider tips to help you pick the perfect spot for your dream escape.

1. Quick‑Reference Chart

*Rates are seasonal averages; book early for best deals.

2. The Hamptons – A Snapshot

2.1 Why the Hamptons?

The Hamptons, officially known as Long Island’s South Fork, are synonymous with sun‑soaked beaches, picturesque lighthouses, and a laid‑back sophistication that attracts celebrities, business moguls, and first‑time visitors alike. The area offers:

• Four distinct zip codes – 11947 (East Hampton), 11966 (Southampton), 11945 (Montauk), and 11980 (Saugerties) – each with its own vibe.
• Year‑round events – From the East Hampton Film Festival (January) to Montauk’s beach volleyball tournaments (Summer).
• A blend of nature and luxury – About one third of the coast is protected as a national wildlife refuge, giving you sunsets over pristine dune fields and starlit skywatching.

2.2 Timing Is Everything

Plan around your preferred activities; if you love surfing, late summer or early fall is a sweet spot; for a nudges trip to the art galleries, winter mornings might be better.

3. The Neighborhood Breakdown

3.1 Montauk – “The End of the World”

• Vibe: Rugged coastline, surf culture, laid‑back charm.
• Must‑Visit: Montauk Point Lighthouse, Dock Master’s Brewery, Unnamed Beach.

• Top Stays:

  • Silver Sands Resort: Family‑friendly with six pools, entire property security, pet‑friendly.
  • Montauk Sportsmen’s Ranch (campsite): Horseback riding, 50+ acres.

• Why Stay? It’s the only place on the island where you can catch a life‑long whale‑watch at the start of a new millennium – especially known for spotted orcas in late spring.

3.2 Southampton – “The Downtown”

• Vibe: Metropolitan, upscale, grocery shops, cafés.
• Must‑Visit: Old Mill, Southampton Town Meeting Hall, The Daily.

• Top Stays:

  • The 73 Hotel: Historic yet modern, offers a free landmark walk on the 73rd anniversary.
  • Chicken & Duck – The Kitchen & Pub: Gourmet Meal, unique wine tasting.

• Why Stay? The perfect blend of town buzz and beach closeness.

3.3 East Hampton – “The Culture Hub”

• Vibe: Bohemian, artistic, community feel.
• Must‑Visit: Parrish Art Museum, Martha’s Vineyard Ferry Terminal (weather permitting), East 49th Street’s boutique shops.

• Top Stays:

  • Daphne’s Cottage B&B: Garden, home‑made pastries, narrative tours.
  • The Farmhouse (Luxury Rentals): Private pool, cabin‑style.

• Why Stay? Arts festivals, new‑wave cuisine, and cozy evening glow.

3.4 Amagansett – “The Hidden Gem”

• Vibe: Family‑friendly, small‑town, wide beach access.
• Must‑Visit: Amos Denison Park, Gilded Gables Bridge.

• Top Stays:

  • Summer House at the Gulf: Classic cottages.
  • Hamptons Glamps: Innovative glamping options with a picnic basket service.

• Why Stay? Heavy discount on rentals in late summer and early fall.

3.5 Shelter Island – “The Lagoon”

• Vibe: Secluded, tranquil, eco‑friendly.
• Must‑Visit: The Sawyers Cottage features a lagoon view, local craft coffee shops.

• Top Stays:

  • Organic Farmstay: A 12‑acre dairy farm, zero‑waste practices.
  • DePalma and Lynch – Echelon Vacation Rentals

• Why Stay? Here you’ll have the chance to volunteer in farm-to-table projects and engage in the slow‑life movement.

4. A Day‑In‑ the Life: Sample Itineraries & Accommodation Pairing

4.1 “Beach + Business”

• Getaway: 3‑night stay in Southampton (The 73 Hotel).
• Week 1 (Mon‑Wed): Hotel meetings, lunch at the hotel’s rooftop (surroundings of 73rd Street).
• Week 2 (Thu‑Sat): Mini‑trip to Montauk to catch a sunset, lunch at a lobster shack, returns to Southampton.

4.2 “Romantic Retreat”

• Getaway: 2‑night stay in East Hampton (Daphne’s Cottage).
• Day 1: Brunch at The Daily, walk around the East 49th.
• Day 2: Horseback by the coast, sunset picnic on Sag Harbor’s beach, return to cottage.

4.3 “Family Adventure”

• Getaway: 4‑night stay in Montauk (Silver Sands Resort).
• All Days: Kids’ camp, dog olympics, beach volley.
• Main Activities: Host a BBQ with the entire group at the resort’s on‑site kitchens.

5. Insider Tips for Finding the Best Deal

6. “Low‑Budget” and “Luxury” Spectrum

6.1 Low‑Budget Options

• Hamptons Glamps: $70–$150 nightly.

  Pros: Great for groups, affordable, eco‑friendly. Cons: No HVAC in winter.

• Low‑cost Hostels (Camping in Shelter Island): As low as $37 per night.

  Pros: Budget-friendly, community vibe.

• Airbnb Private Rooms: $80–$130 nightly.

  Pros: Local neighborly vibe, sometimes hidden treasures.

6.2 Luxury Suites & Villas

• The Gilded Gables – Swan House: $600+ nightly, Infinity pool, private butlers.
• Silver Sands Resort: $300–$800+ nightly, spa services.
• East Hampton’s Serene Estate Retreat: $900+ nightly, typial organic linen, sunrise yoga.

Remember: Luxury accommodations typically require a minimum stay of 3 nights during high season.

7. Dining + Nightlife Integration

You can’t talk about the Hamptons without mentioning the tasting of locally‑sourced seafood. Here’s a top‑tier cross‑reference list matched to accommodations:

8. Sustainable & Eco‑Friendly Stays

The Hamptons is home to more environmental initiatives than most tourist hot spots. If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, try:

• Purely Green Farmstay, Montauk – No plastic packaging, 100% renewable energy.
• Amagansett Glamp Tents – Solar‑powered.
• Vacation Rentals that offer “green roofs” or have local recycling plans—always double‑check with the host.

9. Practical Travel Checklist

**Public transit is limited beyond the central towns; you’ll likely need a rental car.

10. FAQ

1. Do I need a COVID‑19 vaccine before visiting the Hamptons?

   As of 2025, most hotels require proof of full vaccination for entry, especially during the winter season.

2. What’s the best way to reach the Hamptons if I’m flying from New York City?

   • Car: 1–2 hour drive via the Long Island Expressway.
   • Train: Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Huntington or Riverhead; then a short taxi ride.
   • Shuttle: Several services offer “Hour of the Whale” midnight shuttles via West Point.

3. Are pets allowed?

   Yes—most boutique hotels and B&Bs welcome dogs with a small fee; commercial pet‑feller guidelines apply in Montauk Point National Wildlife Refuge.

4. Is it too expensive?

   While a known fact, the uppermost tier can run $1,000+ per night; however, staying in top hotels for a week during low season can cost $200–$400 off‑the‑record.

11. Final Verdict

No matter your travel style—whether you’re packing a sun‑hat for an endless day of beach‑bumming, booking a beachfront villa for a romantic escape, or looking for a unique glamping experience in the dunes—there’s a spot in the Hamptons that fits the bill.

Plan early, stay smart about seasonality, and pick the neighborhood that matches your vibe. Above all, savor the few hours when you’re wandering past sun‑burned dunes, coastal breezes, and, most especially, the unique blend of nature and the slightest dash of luxury that only the Hamptons can offer.

Book your stay, pack your essentials, let the waves remind you that paradise can be near.