The Hamptons is a destination so mythologized—in film, in music, and in literature—that it’s tempting to think of it as a real-life Neverland. And it’s true, like clockwork, many flock to Long Island’s East End every summer in search of sun and a good time, often in the form of rejuvenating wellness experiences or booze-soaked parties along the coast. But despite the luxuriousness that blankets (almost) every surface from Westhampton Beach to Montauk, locals know the community charm extends far beyond what money can buy—or myth can capture.
Whether you’re stopping by Placēbö at Ruschmeyer’s for Latin-influenced fare, strolling along Southampton’s Main Street in pursuit of a chic find at the Morphew or Brochu Walker shops, or closing out the night with romantic dinner at Daphne’s, there’s something for everyone here, from the chic scenester to the low-key diner. Despite decades of history in its stately architecture and beachside abodes, this particular group of towns knows a thing or two about never growing up. Ahead, everything we discovered along the way—including the best hotels, restaurants, and experiences on tap this summer.
What to See
Palm Tree Music Festival
No summer is complete without an outdoor concert. Festival extravagance meets shoreside relaxation for one day only during Palm Tree Music Festival’s immersive show in Southampton. This year, headliners Swedish House Mafia and Kygo and additional performers Sofi Tukker, Purple Disco Machine, and Xandra will usher in summer for thousands of festivalgoers.
Parrish Art Museum
With nearly 125 years of history to its name, the Parrish Art Museum boasts a thought-provoking array of primarily American art in all styles—and a chance to see up-and-coming creators exhibited alongside the greats. One of the few American museums that bathes its galleries in natural light, the Parrish’s building is its own masterpiece, inspired by the nearby barns in which local artists dream up their work. The Parrish also doubles as an ever-changing backdrop to some of the Hamptons’ best events, like its splashy fundraising gala held every summer. See what’s on display here before your trip.
Newtown Lane
Let’s be honest, your summer could use a touch of glamour, and there’s nowhere better to find it than East Hampton. Both Chanel and Prada have unveiled seasonal boutiques in the tony town—at 26 Newtown Lane and 2 Newtown Lane, respectively. Browse recent ready-to-wear collections, leather goods, footwear, and accessories.
White + Warren Cotton Tape Sleeveless Ribbed V Neck
Prada Crochet Tote Bag
Where to Eat
N’AMO
The latest opening in Montauk, N’AMO is a seafood-focused restaurant and raw bar with a modern take on classic dishes, from chilled scallops in a melon aguachile sauce to cacio e pepe beans—all with marina views.
Placēbö
Placēbö in Montauk serves up Puerto Rican-New American fusion with a New York City twist. Think: 5 Wagyu Risotto Paella, Scallop Pot Pie, Whole Fried Red Snapper with plantains. To continue the party, ask for the “don” to score an invite to Don Jaguar’s, a speakeasy lounge on the property complete with leopard-print furnishings.
Little Charli
This Roman-style pizza joint in East Hampton offers pizza making classes that are fun for the whole family, including North West and Penelope Disick. Take your pick between the Margarita, the Snow White (a.k.a. a white pie), or The Godfather, a 1-meter-long pie. Bonus: Little Charli doubles as a late-night spot on Friday and Saturday nights, when it stays open until 4 A.M.
Morphew Vintage 1970s White Cotton Lace Victorian Style Dress With Drawstring Waist
Saint Laurent Tribute Nu Pieds Slide Sandal
Where to Drink
The Surf Lodge
The now-legendary Surf Lodge in Montauk started out as a humble Irish dive bar, but has since emerged as the go-to spot, day or night. That’s largely due to its gregarious founder and creative director Jayma Cardoso; ongoing outdoor concert series; buzzy celebrity- and brand-hosted parties; sought-after suites; fashion pop-ups; and, yes, very good chicken tenders. This season, a new on-site restaurant, Casa Sereña at The Surf Lodge, opens with a Mediterranean-Asian menu helmed by chef Robert Sieber. Plan your visit in advance—space is almost always limited—and try to snag a table by the water. Just make sure your sandals double as dancing shoes.
Wölffer Estate Vineyard
A beloved Sagaponack staple since its founding in 1988, the Wölffer Estate Vineyard is a portrait of languid grandeur, with its rustic-modern tasting room overlooking verdant rows of glistening grapes. Order a charcuterie board and a glass of Wölffer’s signature Summer in a Bottle rosé for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or swing by the charming Wine Stand on Thursday through Sunday evenings to grab a bottle to-go. Stay and watch the sun sink down over the stables and grapes and aybe even stick around for dessert, too—smooth-as-silk brandy and bon-bons are a testament to the old adage, “Life is short; eat dessert first.”
Sunset Harbor
One of the newest dining establishments out east, the waterfront Sunset Harbor is an exercise in creative synergy, from family-style sharing plates (don’t miss the shrimp scampi) to mouth-watering sushi rolls. But the cocktail menu alone is worth exploring as a group, preferably from a table overlooking the boats sailing in from the bay. (A pitcher of rum punch provided our table with more than its fair share of entertainment.)
Cara Cara Laurel Floral Cutout Cotton Sundress
Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
Where to Stay
LDV at The Maidstone Hotel
The iconic East Hampton hotel is reopening this summer thanks to LDV Hospitality, bringing a touch of la dolce vita to the island courtesy of chef Jorge Espinoza of Scarpetta fame and an aperitivo hour offered daily from 3 P.M. to 6 P.M. in the garden. If you didn’t book a trip to Italy, this is the next best thing.
Baron’s Cove
Located in the charming village of Sag Harbor, Baron’s Cove is a nautical-inspired property that borders the harbor. In addition to its 67 rooms, there’s a heated saltwater pool, tennis court, fitness studio, spa services, and complimentary beach transportation. Stick around before dinner for live entertainment on the patio deck, too. You’ll find little reason to leave, other than a quick walk to Big Olaf for some of the best ice cream in New York.
Marram
A newish addition to the Montauk resort roster, the 96-room Marram is one of the more natural, earthy stays along the water, but don’t mistake its grounded aesthetic for a thoughtless approach. The hotel is bursting with mindful choices, from its mid-century modern-meets-Southwestern décor to its new South American café, Mostrador Marram, which hosts a master class in the art of paella-making. “Barefoot luxury” is the property’s motto, proving indulgence doesn’t necessarily need to mingle with excess to have the desired impact. Bonus: rooms are screen-free to avoid any television-prompted stress, so book an oceanfront King suite and graciously watch the tide roll in as you sip your morning coffee.
Rimowa Original Cabin
Birkenstock 1774 Milano Raffia
Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner
Beauty Picks
Saie Glossybounce High-Shine Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil
Getting to the Hamptons is half the battle, then comes arming yourself with the right products to carry you through the weekend. Fortunately, wellness curator Dria Murphy is doing the legwork for you by partnering with Blade on limited-edition dopp kits available to passengers on the aviation company’s new Hamptons streamliner. Each one includes her handpicked essentials, including this hydrating lip oil from Saie. Murphy’s favorite color? “Kiss, because it looks the most natural.”
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum
Regular visitors to the Hamptons know the importance of an investment. And if you’re going to splurge on any one serum, invest in this one. This all-natural hydrating face oil is formulated with 22 of the most antioxidant and nutrient-packed essentials, which will restore your skin barrier and leave you looking and feeling hydrated. So if you sip too many espresso martinis at dinner, slather this oil on, and you’ll be good to go.
A powerful sunscreen is a must under the dazzle of the Long Island sun, and while there are numerous options to choose from, EltaMD’s lightweight tinted sunscreen is one of the best on the market. Luxurious but affordable, dewy but strong, the formula sits well even on skin prone to breakouts and hyperpigmentation.
