The Hamptons in the eastern section of Long Island, New York, has been known as an enclave of breathtaking private beaches. Even more beautiful are the beachfront houses owned or frequented by New York’s rich and famous. Many high society personalities from New York and other US cities are known to flock to the Hamptons each summer, retreating to their sprawling beach estates in their private beaches.

But more than just the beaches, the towns of East Hampton and Southampton in Suffolk County are teeming with picturesque seaside villages, colonial-feels boutiques, and the best news of all, public beaches open to visitors.

If you are planning a getaway to the Hamptons for the summer, read about where to go, what to expect, and which outfits will make you blend in really well.

What’s so Special about The Hamptons?

Towns, villages, and hamlets make up the geography of the Hamptons, situated in the southeastern end of Long Island in New York. The Hamptons is famous for its quaint rural establishments, retaining much of its charm from colonial times. The most notable attractions in the Hamptons include Cooper’s Beach, the Hampton Classic outdoor horse show, and the Shinnecock Golf Club.

This coastal town is home to several celebrity sightings. Many Hollywood and high society personalities from all over the US own summer homes in the Hamptons, and they often congregate in this rural hub, especially in the summers. While the Hamptons is known for its popular and wealthy frequenters, it is also full of many middle-class residents and visitors from all walks of life coming to enjoy the high life in places such as Sagaponack and Water Mill.

For people on a budget, Montauk, Westhampton, and the Hampton Bays are just as amazing places to enjoy white sand beaches, delicious seafood, happening parties, and an all-around refreshing ocean breeze.

Public Beaches in the Hamptons

East Hampton Beaches

East Hampton on the far eastern side of Long Island has several public beaches. It is here where you will find Main Beach. It has dunes and the shoreline is lined with bathrooms, snack bars, and lifeguard stations. East Hampton beaches are easily accessible by foot or bike from local lodging and other historic sights. Popular activities like kayaking, surfing, and paddle boarding are made convenient with tons of nearby equipment rentals and instructors. You can also visit the Georgica and Two Mile Hollow beaches which are located in East Hampton towns.

Other village beaches open to the public are in Montauk, Wainscott, Springs, and Amagnasett where most beach amenities are offered. These beaches, as well as Indian Wells and Atlantic Avenue beaches, offer restroom, volleyball, and snack amenities with lifeguards on duty. Ditch Plains in Montauk and Springs has a hiking trail, on top of its beach amenities.

Southampton Beaches

There are about a dozen beaches you can visit in the town and village of Southampton, including the famous Coopers Beach. Bathrooms, showers, lifeguards, lounge rentals, and restaurant amenities are available here. For family vacations, Ponquogue Beach in the Hampton Bays is a famous spot for surfing, body-boarding, volleyball, and picnics.

Dressing Like You Belong

Beach Outfits

Picnic on the Beach Outfits

For those who like the beach but are not really into swimming in the cold ocean, you can lounge under the sun with wine and snacks while the others take a run at the sea. Throw a light cover-up over your bathing suit as you soak up the rays.

Dressing for the Daytime

A day in the Hamptons away from the beaches is just as enjoyable with the museums, shops, and bike trails. Pack a lot of light, breathable clothing pieces in blue and white linen, paired with light pants, floral skirts, or shorts.

Evening Clothes

Two-piece pant sets or dresses made with light fabrics will be perfect for seafood dinners and visits to the winery. These outfits will be simple but sophisticated enough, should you decide to hit a beach or seaside bar after-hours party.

When you get to the Hamptons, you will observe the prevailing minimalist styles among its frequent visitors and residents. Though women generally wear little jewelry, it will be good sense to take a few day and dinner pieces along with you. And while we’re on the subject of minimalism, ladies, do take the time to visit a laser hair removal services provider before the trip. These outfit ideas, terrific though they already are, will look stunningly better without unkempt body hair.

East Hampton and Southampton are known for being a regular summer retreat, not only for high profile socialites, but for people of all ages and all sides of life. Aside from its pristine beaches, both private and public, there are plenty of activities to enjoy – seafood dining, wine tasting, shopping, biking, museums, and others. It is easy to dress impeccably for the Hamptons by just keeping in mind that light fabrics and simple designs are always in season.