T&C Travel Guide: The Hamptons & Montauk
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When it comes to the Hamptons and Montauk, popular knowledge would have it that if you're headed out east, you're either traveling to your own home or crashing as a guest at someone else's summer house. But let's face it, with a less than 2 hour drive (not during rush hour, of course), the pull of Long Island can be felt by nearly everyone in New York City once temperatures hit 80. And who doesn't need a little break from the city every now and again? With fresh farm stands, quaint beachy towns, and of course sprawling beaches, there's not much more you could ask for.
If you're looking for a long weekend getaway or perhaps want to book a stay-cation, there's no better place than Long Island's Atlantic Shoreline. Here, where to stay, where to eat, what to do ... and if you're feeling like you need some packing help, what to bring along, too.
Where to Stay
A Room at the Beach, Bridgehampton
Consider this the perfect quaint hideaway just off the Montauk Highway. Nestled in redwoods trees (which were planted by none other than Martha Stewart—when her family lived on the property), A Room at the Beach boasts 10 cozy and serene rooms in the dreamiest of locales (think: vine covered pergola and twinkling lights strung between trees). Plus, as the name suggests you are a stone's throw from the beach.
Shou Sugi Ban House, Water Mill
If you're in search of a good spa weekend, then Shou Sugi Ban House is for you. And year round, no less. Reset at the Water Mill retreat, which is comprised of a grouping of renovated barns and 13 guest studios, by indulging in nourishing plant-based meals, soul soothing sound baths, and just about every spa treatment under the sun. Pro tip: if you like to take baths, it's worth booking a trip here for the tubs alone.
Baron's Cove, Sag Harbor
So you fancy yourself a bit of an intellectual, eh? Well, then Baron's Cove is the place for you. The Sag Harbor haunt, which is recently renovated and nautically themed, used to be the preferred haunt of literary demigods Truman Capote and Kurt Vonnegut as well as the painter Jackson Pollock. Bonus: if the beach isn't really your thing, Baron's Cove has a pool.
Surf Lodge, Montauk
Should you want to be at the center of the Montauk nightlife, the convenience of Surf Lodge is tough to beat. With its ultra laidback atmosphere (there are hammocks in their 19 guest accommodations), expertly curated beauty bars in each room, and a general beachy vibe from the surf-set that frequents the spot, it's hard to not kick back and enjoy. Plus, with musical performances nearly every weekend, you'll likely stop by the property anyway.
Gurney's Resort Montauk
If the traditional feel of a resort (sprawling property, multiple restaurants, a spa and state of the art gym) is more your thing, there's no better place than Gurney's. The beach club is ultra-fun (and exclusive), and it's a great place to stay with a large group or if you have children in tow.
Topping Rose House, Bridgehampton
By far the most shi-shi of the Hamptons hotels, Topping Rose House (which was restored from a 19th century Greek revival home) is located on a one-acre farm, which provides produce for the on-property Jean Georges restaurant. Think full-service luxury with airy and spacious rooms outfitted with Frette linens, Matouk towels, and lush bath amenities. Oh, and they have a shuttle that will take you to-and-from the beach, too.
Where to Eat
Le Charlot, Southampton
An Upper East Side transplant that provides a European savoir faire. The crowd is stylish and, yes, the steak tartare and frites is worth every savory bite.
Le Bilboquet, Sag Harbor
Much like its sister on the Upper East Side, Bilbo in Sag is the ultimate mix of see-and-be-seen and great food. Everything from the ambiance to the outdoor deck is immaculate, and the poulet cajun is just as fabulous. Just be sure to dress to impress.
Si Si, East Hampton
An immersive experience that blends the cuisines of Italy, Greece, Spain, Morocco for mediterranean flavors that are out of this world. The only thing that can possibly compete? The restaurants killer view of the sunset.
Clam Bar, Amagansett
Sometimes you want a good old fashioned lobster roll, clam chowder, everything you could dream of fried. And for that, you head to Clam Bar just off of Route 27. The outdoor seating is super casual, but you will never fail to have a good meal. It makes for a great pit stop when you're driving from the End back to wherever you are staying.
Suki Zuki, Water Mill
If you know, you know. Suki Zuki is the perfect oh-so-laidback choice for a night when you want to go out but don't want to go out. Order a Teriyaki chicken salad and a tuna sandwich... you won't regret it.
Duryea's Lobster Deck
An OG Montauk staple, Duryea's has serious hype—but it's deserved. The elevated casual fare is matched by a clean waterside setting befitting of a European summer holiday. It's worth a trip to Montauk for the lobster cobb salad alone.
What to Do
Ditch Plains
If you're headed to ditch plains, you're likely surfing. With a rock ocean floor as opposed to sand, the waves draw water sport aficionados and novices alike. Plus, the beach is also dog friendly and boasts a spectacular green lookout point and cliffs.
Dan Flavin Art Institute
Part of the Dia Art Foundation, the Institute is open to the public and houses a permanent collection of Dan Flavin's fluorescent light installations as well as temporary exhibitions in a renovated turn-of-the-century fire house. For when you want some capital C culture.
Balsam Farm Stand
Should you want to dig in on some of the fresh produce that is harvested in the area, swing by the Balsam Farm Stand. It's the perfect Saturday morning activity: fresh fruit and flowers. A recipe for the start of a good day.
Sagg Main Beach
Easily walkable in both directions and with public restroom facilities as well as rotating food options, Sagg Main remains one of the most pristine—and fun—beaches for a day in the sand. Sometimes it really is that simple.
What to Pack
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