For as long as I can remember, my favorite weeks of summer have not been spent in my hometown of Los Angeles but across the country in East Hampton, New York. Sure, summers in California definitely have their perks, but something about New York reaches me differently. My mom was the only one of her family to leave New York, so every visit is a reunion with the part of my heart that normally exists 3,000 miles away. I think that everyone should experience at least one East Coast summer in their lifetime, and here’s why.
I would like to start off by saying that I am fully aware what a privilege it is to spend my summers this way, and I could not be more grateful for how generous my family is in opening their doors to me every year. Honestly, I probably wouldn’t be able to afford these trips every summer if I didn’t have a place to stay, so I understand that an East Coast trip is not the most accessible summer plan. But if you are able to visit a coastal East Coast town even for a day, I think you should.
Understandably, the Hamptons get an intimidating reputation largely due to exorbitant costs and perceived standoffish attitudes. And yes, there are some people who visit for the photo ops and the chance to say they “summered in the Hamptons.” But that is not the heart of this beach town.
Shopping
Behind the designer storefronts and $30 cocktails, there is so much more to discover. The sweetest shops line the streets if you look out for them. Stop by Eberjey for the softest pajamas in the world. I swear by their robe and get ready in it every day. Check out Everything But Water for your newest bikini. And obviously visit the classics: Reformation, Alice + Olivia, Staud, etc.
Fly in early. The Hamptons are not a quick drive from any airport, so you don’t want to waste a day getting there. Red eyes suck, but they are worth it in the long run. If you’re coming in from New York City, the Hampton Jitney is an easy option for your commute.
eats
Now let’s get into the food. Definitely do not skip the Popup Bagels summer shop in Amagansett Square. These really are popular for a reason, but make sure to get there early because they sell out quickly. For my matcha girlies, Montauk General Store is the only way to go. As a matcha lover, this is truly the only place to get a decent matcha in the Hamptons. Now I wish I could say that the viral Round Swamp Farms is not worth the hype, but unfortunately for my wallet, it is. Yes, it is ridiculously overpriced, but I have never been disappointed. Get the avocado tomato salad, sea salt caramel chocolate chip cookies, and chicken tenders, to name a few. For sushi, get Zakura’s.
I truly think that whatever seafood you can get out at a restaurant will be even better prepared fresh at home. I am completely spoiled since my cousin is a prize fisherman who brings home fresh tuna every day, but the next best thing is the seafood from Stuarts. And even though you might not expect it from a seafood shop, grab some sesame noodles too. And don’t waste your money buying daily groceries at Citarella—just go to IGA.
Beaches
When choosing where to stay, get as close to the beach as possible. Go in on an Airbnb with your closest friends. Sharing rooms and beds can end up creating the most memorable late-night talks while also decreasing cost. Be warned that if you do not have a village resident or an East Hampton town permit on your car, you should not drive to the beach. Typical beach parking is $50 a day, which is ridiculous, so definitely bike or walk if you can.
Not sure what to do on a weekday night? Tuesdays at Main Beach are a super wholesome way to spend the night. The sand is packed with onlookers while local live bands play for the crowd. Totally free, totally cute, and totally fun.
Going out
Now I know everyone is totally obsessed with Surf Lodge, but I was not too impressed. If you’re going to go, make sure a good DJ is playing. And eat dinner there beforehand, so you don’t have to worry about an egotistical bouncer not letting you in. Keep it local and go to Stephen Talkhouse for a more casual vibe.
My final and most important tip is to befriend the locals. Making a summer friend group for a couple of weeks is the easiest way to improve your vacation. Locals can show you all the best spots and really make your summer destination feel like home. Have game nights by the pool, cook a giant dinner with seasonal produce, paint the sun while you watch it set over the water, and make memories to bring home with you.
My favorite memories from my summers have had nothing to do with the clothes I bought or a hot, new spot I tried, but rather shared experiences with friends and family. So no matter where you go or what you do, do it with the people you love.
