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Five things people love to do on a Hamptons vacation

The Hamptons. Two words that evoke serenity, luxury, natural beauty, and the good life.

There is so much to love about this part of the United States. Its close proximity to New York City makes The Hamptons an ideal getaway destination for people consumed by hard work. It’s a place where you can just let go, enjoy yourself and be free from the constraints of everyday life for a while.

There are a myriad of reasons elite travelers are pulled to The Hamptons. Not only is it a wonderful place to spend time with family, but it gives so much in the way of fine dining, marvelous beaches, first-class shopping, rich history and culture and the list goes on.

The Hamptons can be enjoyed any time of year, but the peak season is the summer –from Memorial Day through Labor Day. We have highlighted five reasons elite travelers love this area and why you might want to make your next vacation the epitome of luxury in this slice of seaside heaven.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

Exploring the Hamptons wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the most eastern point of Long Island, also known locally as “the end of the world.” Montauk Point Lighthouse is perched on a hill overlooking the sweeping vista of the Atlantic Ocean. This National Historic Landmark was actually commissioned by George Washington in 1797. It’s New York’s oldest lighthouse and the fourth oldest active light station in the US reaching 19 nautical miles with light flashes every five seconds. You can visit the collection of photos and historical documents at the museum in the 1860 Keeper’s House. Have your camera on the ready since this is a wonderful lookout spot with waves crashing against the seaside cliff.

When you’re visiting a place as lovely as the Hamptons, we will not only want your home base to be comfortable, but elegant and completely sumptuous for entertaining. Villa Sandcastle of Bridgehampton is one of the most beautiful of Hamptons’ luxury villas. Outstanding amenities include a walnut library, 10-seat theatre, bowling alley, basketball court, tennis court, wine cellar, and a full spa with a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam, and massage rooms. You’ll also have a private elevator, magnificent outdoor area complete with a pool, Jacuzzi, BBQ, patio, terrace and even DJ equipment for superb parties! You will receive full services and around-the-clock support from your LVH team.

The Incredible Shops

East Hampton is the ultimate destination for luxe shops. The latest arrival is Manolo Blahnik whose pop-up shop on Main Street boasts a wide variety of men’s loafers and women’s skyscraper stilettos. Gucci has also finally hit the town with 2,000 square feet of space in its Newtown Lane shop. Named for its iconic address, One at Main Street is a multi-brand boutique over 7,000 square feet on three levels (including a VIP shopping salon). The luxury marketplace has men’s and women’s apparel and accessories, a new furniture collection from Roll & Hill and artworks curated in partnership with Artsy. Here, you will also find Balenciaga, Vince, Tod’s and Weston Wells, among others. Of course there are other areas in the Hamptons providing exclusive shopping such as Main Street in Sag Harbor.

Impeccable Fine Dining

Daring new restaurants from New York-based chefs have introduced increasingly diverse and cosmopolitan dining options to the Hamptons. Restaurateurs pull from global influences, finding new and exciting expressions for the region's incredible bounty of seafood – from lobster, snapper, scallops, fluke, and more. Combined with a sweeping sustainable farm-to-table practice, today's culinary selections are particularly reflective of the Hamptons' distinct environment. Here are two popular establishments to consider:

Cowfish

The Michelin-starred Cowfish is open all year and on the canal bank. Chefs here have the utmost culinary creativity. They have designed a flavorful menu featuring a combination of perfectly spiced meat and poultry, and hearty fish dishes. The salad selection incorporates unique twists on old favorites – and a few surprise specialties. We recommend the seared Ahi tuna with pineapple coconut fried rice, orange ponzu and wasabi microgreens.

Bistro Eté

This fine dining restaurant has been called one of the best in the Hamptons. The menu is creative and dishes are meticulously prepared. The interior reflects the understated chicness and comfortable style reminiscent of the French coast. Cordon Bleu trained Chef Arie Pavlou still offers classic dishes such as escargot, striped bass with champagne truffle sauce and his own dry aged steaks. The menu also includes many mouthwatering vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Surfing at Ditch Plains

One of the most famous things to do in the Hamptons is to take advantage of the incredible surf scene. One of the most popular surf spots in the area in Montauk is at Ditch Plains referred to by locals as their surf mecca. The warm sandy beach floor compliments the cliff side views, creating a very picturesque view of the rolling waves across Long Island. This popular surfing spot is just two miles east of Montauk Village, and a short drive away from just about anywhere in town.

Crabbing with Kids

No, it isn’t in reference to anyone’s mood! Actually crabbing is really big in the Hamptons and an ideal activity for children to do with their parents. You can get all the equipment at a local hardware shop including rods and wire from which to dangle bits of raw bacon, or chicken, which crabs love. Two of the best spots for crabbing are Sagaponack beach and Geogica Pond.

Whatever your likes are, LVH can fashion the perfect itinerary for you and your family while in the Hamptons. The list is endless: wine tours, day trips, shopping, cultural events, shows – we are limited only by your imagination. We invite you to reach out to one of our experienced client relations team members who will begin planning the most amazing time in the Hamptons for you. Not only will you be staying in the most luxurious accommodations, but you will be making heart-warming memories to last a lifetime.