Find out why The Hamptons are the top luxury travel destination in the U.S.
The Hamptons are synonymous with American high society. It’s where wealthy New Yorkers go to unwind in their second homes, mingle with other rich people, and make deals while playing golf.
While the Hamptons may not have a scene as overtly gay as Fire Island, it remains a top-tier summer retreat for LGBTQ+ travelers who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands of East Hampton or sipping rosé at an exclusive beach club, the Hamptons is the place to be if you’re an American socialite.
Towns to visit in the Hamptons
Known for its white-sand beaches, multimillion-dollar estates, and designer boutiques, East Hampton is one of the biggest draws in the U.S. for luxury travelers. Main Beach, consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., has a breathtaking coastal setting with private beach clubs, fine dining, and oceanfront mansions that stretch along the dunes. The town itself exudes understated wealth, with charming tree-lined streets and historic shingle-style homes. Shopping in East Hampton is just as luxurious, featuring high-end brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren.
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Restaurants like Nick & Toni’s serve as a hotspot for A-list sightings and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, while The 1770 House serves American favorites in a distinctly Hamptons setting. The town is also home to elite private clubs, polo matches, and star-studded events, making it the ultimate Hamptons destination for those looking to experience its most glamorous side. Whether lounging at an oceanfront estate, sipping cocktails at a chic hotel, or indulging in world-class seafood, East Hampton is where the Hamptons’ prestige and luxury shine brightest.
Beaches in the Hamptons
Main Beach, East Hampton is one of the most pristine and upscale beaches in the region, attracting luxury travelers, models, and creatives. Expect immaculate sands, high-end beach homes lining the shore, and plenty of privacy—ideal if you want to enjoy the beach without the party-heavy energy of Fire Island. It’s also a popular destination for celebrities seeking privacy: Beyonce and Jay Z are habitués of the Hamptons.
For a more social beach experience, Wainscott Beach is a well-kept secret among NYC’s LGBTQ+ professionals and creatives. Less crowded than Main Beach, this stretch of sand has uninterrupted Atlantic views. It’s the perfect spot to pack a luxury picnic, pop open a bottle of rosé, and soak up the summer sun in true Hamptons fashion.
If you’re looking for a mix of sophistication and a buzzing social scene, Coopers Beach in Southampton is a must. With its classic Hamptons elegance, sun-drenched dunes, and nearby high-end beach clubs, it’s a prime spot for high end socializing.
Geography and climate
The Hamptons are located on Long Island’s South Fork, about 90–100 miles east of New York City. The area is accessible by car, train (LIRR), bus (Hampton Jitney), or private helicopter/seaplane if you’d prefer to arrive in style.
The Hamptons enjoys a milder, more coastal climate compared to New York City, thanks to its location on Long Island’s South Fork. Being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean helps regulate temperatures, making the summers cooler and breezier and the winters slightly milder than NYC, though the area does get more coastal storms.
Summers in the Hamptons are noticeably more pleasant than in New York City, with temperatures generally staying in the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24–29°C), compared to the often hot and humid 90°F (32°C) days in Manhattan. The ocean breeze keeps the air fresh and comfortable, making it an ideal escape from the city’s sweltering streets. New York City has everything you could possibly want, aside from good weather. The Hamptons thrives as a luxurious and temperate escape from the Big Apple.
Things to do in the Hamptons
The Hamptons is the ultimate destination for luxury travel in the U.S. You can charter a private yacht for a day of sailing, relax at Gurney’s Montauk Resort’s VIP beach club, or enjoy a sunset wine tasting at Wölffer Estate Vineyard. Fine dining is a key part of the Hamptons experience, with restaurants like Le Bilboquet in Sag Harbor serving as go-to spots for celebrities and socialites. For relaxation and wellness, Shou Sugi Ban House in Water Mill offers holistic spa retreats, while Gurney’s Seawater Spa provides ocean-fed pools and five-star treatments.
If you’re a fan of luxury sports, the Hamptons has world-class golf courses, elite polo matches, and private equestrian events like the Hampton Classic Horse Show. Designer boutiques in East Hampton cater to high-end shoppers, while Sag Harbor’s art galleries feature investment-worthy pieces. The region’s members-only golf courses and private social clubs ensure a discreet, high-end experience for the elite. Whether sailing, sipping rosé at a vineyard, or unwinding at a spa, the Hamptons is all about luxury.
