If you are planning a summer vacation to New York City, make sure you save a couple days for Long Island and the Hamptons. This fabled region of luxury and elite residences is also a destination for those a little closer to the median income. Let me explain how you can have an amazing two-day vacation in the Hamptons, without spending like a pop star.
There’s lots of buzz in right now in Montauk, the most Eastern point on Long Island.

The cool and well designed restaurant Ruschmeyer, in Montauk
The cool and well designed restaurant Ruschmeyer, in Montauk

A beautiful drive around the Great Peconic Bay from our Bed and Breakfast near Greenport, shabby motels and down-home restaurants are being remodeled into “boho-chic” establishments.
In East Hampton, a gaggle of luxurious boutiques and restaurants have opened. Older hotels and beloved barrooms have been renovated. This is a great place to window shop, grab delicious bites and learn more about what’s happening in the Hamptons.

What’s Going on in the Hamptons While I’m Visiting?

Want to get a jump on what’s going on in the Hamptons during your visit? Grab the free glossy magazines — Social Life, Hampton Life, Hamptons, Hampton Sheet, Dan’s Papers — for the scoop on charity events, screenings and other happenings. You can find them at the doorways of many boutiques in East Hampton.

Speaking of a Scoop…East Hampton Bites

If you have a sweet tooth or need a cold treat during a hot afternoon, the new spot is Scoop du Jour, (35 Newtown Lane, East Hampton) an ice cream parlor where waffle cones are stacked high and flavors like Monster Mint Oreo and Toasted Coconut tempt even the supermodels. You can also get Dreesen’s doughnuts here, a Hamptons institution since the 1950s.
For dinner – two East Hampton restaurants are on the radar: Serafinas (104 North Main St.), a pizza oven and Italian seafood restaurant. Dinner for two runs around $100. If American cuisine and a more moderate price is your preference, check out Bostwick’s Chowder House (277 Pantigo Rd.).
Come back next week for more insider tips on a great trip to the East End of Long Island!