This Long Island Village Boasts Scenic Stretches Of Sand And Small-Town Seaside Charm

The Hamptons are oozing with quiet luxury, and the community known as Sag Harbor is no exception. The beloved beach destination has served as a playground for New York's rich and famous for generations, and remain one of the vacation spots celebrity couples love. Each year, when the weather in New York City turns unbearably hot, residents flock to the Hamptons for relaxation and relief. An invitation is more coveted than a table at even the most fashionable restaurants in NYC. There is an air of exclusivity that makes visiting even more desirable to some tourists.

The Hamptons is a blanket name for a collection of coastal communities on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the eastern end of Long Island in New York, they're known for laid-back vibes, historic charm, and upscale clientele. Horse races, golfing, and cocktails overlooking the water are all popular pastimes. The Hamptons can be reached from New York City in less than two hours, so it's no surprise that many New Yorker's visit on the weekends all summer long. However, the Hamptons aren't just for people looking to escape the city. Travelers from all over the world enjoy visiting each year to experience some of the best beaches in the Northeast. While it's one of the most popular summer getaways on the East Coast, it's also one of the most expensive. For luxury travelers, looking to see-and-be-seen, it's well worth the price tag. If you're looking for the perfect home base in the Hamptons, head to the historic hamlet known as Sag Harbor.

Sag Harbor stretches across parts of both Southampton and East Hampton. It's an unincorporated town with a centuries-old history. It's been around for over 300 years. The first inhabitants of Sag Harbor were Algonquin Indigenous people who called it Weg-wag-onuch. The land – which included meadows, hills, and wetlands – was acquired by the Trustees of Southampton back in the late 1600s. From the mid 1700s through the mid 1800s the town grew into a thriving port due to the whaling industry. During WWII military equipment was manufactured there. After the war, the town fell into disrepair. It was revitalized in the 1970s when creatives began moving to the area. Lured by cheap accommodations and beautiful scenery, they soon opened small art galleries.

Now, the entire village is only about 2 square miles and has managed to maintain its small town vibe. The picturesque historic buildings have been fully renovated and restored, adding to its charm. Visitors love the laid-back but luxurious atmosphere. It's located within a bay with sandy beaches extending into calm waters, perfect for swimming in the summer. It also makes an excellent vacation spot in the fall when the crowds have died down. 

Accommodations in Sag Harbor range from boutique hotels to private vacation rentals. The American Hotel is one of the most iconic, and dates back to the 1800s. It's in the heart of Sag Harbor, so it's easy to explore the village on foot. There are eight cozy guest rooms and an onsite restaurant serving French-American dishes. Rooms start at about $265 per night. Baron's Cove is a trendy spot on the water. The renovated motel originally opened in 1958 has more than 60 rooms and suites decorated in a classic nautical style. Celebrities, like author John Steinbeck, have been known to frequent the property. Rooms start at around $300 per night. Amenities include free bike rentals, complimentary kayaks, tennis courts, yoga classes, and an onsite restaurant.

Private vacations homes are a popular choice in the Hamptons, with many families or groups of friends opting to rent a house for an entire month or more. In Sag Harbor it's possible to find beautiful homes with multiple bedrooms for around $500 or more per night, and Airbnb has some nice smaller options starting at around $300 per night.

Havens Beach is one of the most popular spots to enjoy the sunshine, sand and saltwater. Other beaches include Foster Memorial Beach, Circle Beach, and Windmill Beach. When you aren't relaxing on the sandy beaches, head into town for excellent shopping and dining. Expect plenty of local boutiques with artisan-made gifts and decor along with fashionable clothing. In the evenings, grab a delicious meal and drink at one of the chic bar-restaurants, or catch a show at the Bay Street Theater.