Did you ever visit a super busy touristy spot at a peak time and wonder what it must be like during a more civilized time of year? When ordering food or a simple morning beverage was not like a When Animals Attack video? Or when the traffic was a non-issue? You could leisurely stroll around the top attractions with not a care in the world, have your pick of restaurants and lean into the act of decompressing.
Most of you know that The Hamptons comprise a few posh neighborhoods on the East End of Long Island, specifically the South Fork. Known simply as Out East, these enclaves, towns and clusters cater to the most discerning of taste from the most well to do folks. Lots of millionaires and even billionaires own homes there. Think Alec Baldwin, JLo, Paul McCartney, lots of finance bros and tech geniuses. But in season, which runs typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the beaches, streets, bars, shops and restaurants are all packed to capacity and overflow with New Yorkers just trying to escape the heat of the City, enjoy a good meal, and indulge in the welcome change of scenery from our bustling overcrowded urban center to a glorious, sunny oasis. But the truth is, The Hamptons can feel just as overcrowded as the City! And the traffic is notably awful in the summer months. It gives gridlock alert a new level of immobilization– both pedestrian and vehicular.
One of my favorite quotes from the rom-com hit Something Borrowed was delivered by John Krasinski’s cynical character when he said, “The Hamptons are like a zombie movie directed by Ralph Lauren.” So true! And although I too love getting out of the steamy humid tar beach jungle I call home in the summer, visiting The Hamptons off peak is simply spectacular. Let me tell you why…
On a recent three night stay we had a fabulous experience in a low key hotel. They were offering what they called a Hibrenation Package. The room rate was deeply discounted and they threw in a lovely dinner for two at their on site restaurant overlooking the harbor. You can’t get that in July. Not a bad deal!
Day one was spent making the drive out with a quick stop at the legendary Tate’s Bakery for some necessary snacks. We walked around Southampton for a bit enjoying the stark emptiness. It was amazing. I bought two pair of fun socks in town and a Memorial Day gift for some hard to shop for friends who host a fab party every year. Score. We had an incredible lunch at Cheese Shop and both ordered the Firenze Panini with smoked turkey, gruyere, arugula, tender roasted tomato and balsamic dressing with a side of rich pesto for dipping. Seriously one of the best sandos of my life!
We tooled around Sag for a while amazed at the sleepy town. We enjoyed the big moving sale at Henry Lehr although heartbroken to find out they are sliding across the street and taking over Sylvester & Co. Modern General’s old spot. They were my go to for kitchen gadgets, candles, cool clothes, and condiments. Rest in peace old friend.
In town, Michael indulged in several coffee bevs from Sagtown while I sat on a chair outside gloriously soaking up the afternoon sun. So life affirming!
Day two was rainy and cold so we piled into the car and decided to set up shop at the stunning and quiet Bridgehampton Library. We both got a solid few hours of work done before grabbing a casual bite across the street at L&W Market. Our day was peaceful and productive.
On our last day was super sunny and clear so we drove out to Montauk to indulge in a big breakfast and long beach walk. We visited the Lighthouse, checked out the trinket shops and although some of the items were gorg, the prices were hefty so we decided to abstain and popped no tags.
Sometimes the idea of a quickie vacation hits at just the right time for a great mental reset and re-energizes you to get through the dreary colder months. This was the perfect drivable getaway.
Now that the cherry blossoms are in full swing in NYC, I’m so glad we had that little respite to bridge the gap between winter doldrums and the hope of what’s to come. Although I’ve never been a big cold weather gal, I love taking advantage of the calm and collected chill of the off season. And I’m gearing up to spring right into the warm weather.
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