New Yorkers famously decamp to The Hamptons come the summer months, to escape the city humidity in favour of an affluent beach lifestyle. Divided into neighbourhoods or villages, it’s traditionally been the domain of second homers. But – thanks to the proliferation of WFH – is now seeing a flurry of young professionals setting up year-round residences here, making it a vibrant destination with a range of excellent restaurants, boutiques and attractions. If you want to rub shoulders with socialites like The Real Housewives in action, come in high season from July through to Labor Day. Or enjoy a less pricey stay off-peak.
The Roundtree Hamptons
Found in the district of Amagansett, surrounded by acres of land (this was once a working farm), yet close to the shore, The Roundtree offers just 15 forms of accommodation. It has a homely, yet undoubtedly upscale feel. The main house is over a century old, although the internal decor reflects the kind of effortless, contemporary design appealing to New Yorkers heading out of town. As bedrooms take the form of suites and cottages, and there’s no restaurant on the premises, The Roundtree is better suited to families, groups and those preferring to do their own thing when it comes to dining.
The Menhaden Hotel Hamptons
For stunning harbour views and close access to the region’s wine lands, book into The Menhaden Hotel. This too is a boutique establishment, with 16 bedrooms, designed to evoke a smart maritime theme displaying various related artefacts. There are lots of drinking and dining options here: a sophisticated ground floor restaurant, a rooftop bar, cafe and a galley snack stop, plus excellent places to eat in the Greenpoint neighbourhood. There’s much to see and do on the doorstep and the hotel offers a free water taxi, bike hire and transfers via its electric vehicle.
Topping Rose House Hamptons
If you’d like access to a spa during your stay, Topping Rose House is the place to be. The property also boasts an outdoor heated pool, a fitness suite, a destination farm-to-table restaurant (with produce coming from its very own on-site one-acre farm), a trendy bar, a curated contemporary art collection, access to a Lexus and a free shuttle, with private beach passes. 22 bedrooms offer Frette linens, iPads and minibars, some have their own gardens and roof terraces. The building itself is a Greek Revival-style mansion, dating back to the 19th century. Topping Rose House is located in Bridgehampton.
Hero Beach Club Hamptons
Montauk was once populated by creatives, surfers and those who made their living from the water. But it’s becoming increasingly sought after by well-heeled visitors in recent times, with hotels like the Hero Beach Club popping up. The property has a laid back charm though – you won’t find a dedicated restaurant, but you will be provided with complimentary morning bagels and coffee, as well as s’mores roasting on some nights. The design in the 30 bedrooms (most with balconies) is airy and mirrors the natural pastel hues seen in the coastal landscape. Outside, there’s a large heated pool, with plenty of lounging space and movie nights held under the stars.