How To Get To The Hamptons (From NYC, New England, & more)
Planning a trip to the Hamptons? You’re in for a treat! These charming oceanfront towns offer some of the best beaches on the East Coast, plus fun nightlife, chic hotels, and diverse entertainment options.
Whether you’re wondering how to get to the Hamptons from New York City or New England, I’ve got you covered.
I lived in the Hamptons for a year and still regularly visit family who live there full time. I’ve navigated the area quite a bit using various transportation options, this is what I’ve learned.
Read on for everything you need to know about how to get to the Hamptons.
Where Are The Hamptons?
The Hamptons are located on the far east end of Long Island, about 90 miles from New York City.
Numerous towns and villages comprise the Hamptons. These towns stretch across 40+ miles, with Westhampton to the far west and Montauk to the far east. Getting from one end of the Hamptons to the other requires at least an hour.
How To Get To The Hamptons
Driving To The Hamptons
If you’re driving in from locations such as Philadelphia, Washington D.C., New Jersey, and regions of Upstate you’ll be passing through New York City. For those coming in from New England and far eastern Upstate, I’ve got you covered in the ferry section further down in this post.
Below is how to drive from New York City to the Hamptons.
The Hamptons are a straight shot from New York City. Upon leaving the city make your way to I-495, the Long Island Expressway. At Manorville take 111 to Highway 27 which will take you straight into the Hamptons.
Highway 27 and I-495 run parallel to each other, so you can hop on over to 27 at any time. Although this option is definitely slower than 495. 495 is an expressway, meaning multiple lanes and no stops.
Exactly how long it’ll take to drive depends on where you’re heading. For example, Manhattan to the Village of Southampton is about 2 hours, whereas it’ll take about 2 hours and 45 minutes if you’re heading all the way to Montauk from Manhattan, etc.
Of course, traffic will also play a factor, the above estimates are based on light traffic. Peak times, such as Friday afternoon in summer, will see heavy congestion.
Tips For Driving To The Hamptons
Cell service may get spotty as you head east through the Hamptons, so be sure to have directions downloaded ahead of time.
There are plenty of gas stations along the way but they do get quite expensive, and small, as you get into the Hamptons. I recommend filling up somewhere further west on Long Island if you want to save a few bucks and avoid crowded stations.
If driving an electric vehicle, there are various Tesla Supercharger stations along 495. Plus Tesla Superchargers and Destination Charging stations along Montauk Highway (Highway 27) in the Hamptons.
Once you’re in the Hamptons there’s a lot of narrow, winding roads and wonky intersections. Be alert and use caution, especially if driving at night.
Also, if driving at night, watch for deer and wildlife crossings.
If you have time, the Tanger Outlets are a popular stopping point on Long Island. The large outlets are in Riverhead near Westhampton.
Hire A Driver
Would you prefer to leave the driving to someone else? Hire a driver instead. You can find companies that service New York City and Long Island, plus regions of New Jersey and Connecticut.
They’re especially great for transfers to and from the airport.
Getting To The Hamptons By Train
The Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Montauk Branch is a convenient way to get to the Hamptons from New York City.
The train travels from Manhattan’s Penn Station to Montauk with a transfer at Jamaica Station in Queens.
Additionally, there’s a seasonal train called the “Cannonball” Hamptons Express Train, which is among the fastest ground options to the Hamptons.
The regular train route requires about 2 – 3 hours. For example, Penn Station to Southampton is about 2.5 hours, and just over 3 hours to Montauk.
The Cannonball will shave off about 30 minutes of transit time.
The train is a great option for summer months when the Long Island Expressway is jammed with cars.
The LIRR train runs the Montauk Branch year-round, with extra trains and more seating during the summer months. Again, the Cannonball is seasonal only.
Stops in the Hamptons, in order from west to east, include: Speonk, Westhampton, Hampton Bays, Southampton, Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk. All stops listed are within the same fare zone.
Fares vary based on peak vs. non-peak travel times. Plan on spending about $25 – 35 each way, plus a bit more if riding the Cannonball.
Tickets can be purchased in advance on the TrainTime app. The app also includes scheduling, shows train status and track location, etc.
Otherwise, you can purchase from a ticket office, ticket machine, or onboard. Onboard purchasing includes a surcharge and is the most expensive way to go.
Tips For Taking The LIRR Train From NYC To The Hamptons
Bikes and surf boards can be stored on a first-come, first-served bases for an added fee.
If traveling during peak times, the LIRR trains can be a bit hectic. At Penn Station tracks aren’t announced until 10 minutes prior to departure, at which time there’s a mad dash for the train. Some will have to stand once seating fills up, there are no assigned seats.
Most Hampton-bound trains require a transfer at the Jamaica train station. Be sure to keep your ticket for this.
If you don’t want to deal with a transfer, the Cannonball Express Train is your best option.
If exiting the train in Amagansett, you must be in one of the first two cars to get off the train. When in doubt, ask a crew member if you’re in the right spot.
The LIRR has a helpful post on getting from NYC to the Hamptons via train: LIRR To The Hamptons
Getting To Penn Station By Train:
As mentioned above, the LIRR Montauk Branch departs from Penn Station.
Penn Station is centrally located in Manhattan, you can take the subway here from all around New York City.
Those taking the Amtrak train in from Boston, Washington D.C., or Philadelphia, for example, will arrive in Moynihan Train Hall which is across the street from Penn Station.
Getting To The Hamptons By Bus – Hampton Jitney
One of the most convenient ways to get across Long Island is to take a bus via the Hampton Jitney. This luxury liner has cozy seats, on-board WiFi, restrooms, drinks for purchase, and an attendant.
The buses run frequently with a handful of pick up points in Manhattan and one in Queens.
They have three Hamptons lines: North Fork, Westhampton, and Montauk Line.
The North Fork Line, as you might expect, goes to Riverhead and the North Fork only. You don’t want to take this line if you’re going to the Hamptons.
Westhampton Line makes stops (in order from west to east) in: Hampton Bays, East Quogue, Quogue, and Westhampton.
Montauk Line makes stops (in order from west to east) in: Manorville, Southampton, Water Mill, Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, Wainscott, East Hampton, Amagansett, Napeague, and Montauk.
Some routes stop in every town listed above, but not all. However popular towns, such as Southampton and East Hampton, will be included in every Montauk Line route.
Routes are offered on the standard bus, called the Hampton Jitney, or the Hampton Ambassador. The Ambassador is their luxe option which offers more space and cozier seats.
Fares vary but expect the Hampton Jitney to cost about $50 each way and the Ambassador about $70. Seats are not assigned, although seats can be reserved for an added fee.
You can book your tickets online at the Hamptons Jitney.
Advanced reservations are required to reserve a spot on the coach. Walk-ups are allowed, in which case riders will pay the attendant. I recommend booking online in advance, especially during summer when buses are regularly full.
If traveling during summer weekends, reservations need to be made well in advance.
Tips For Riding The Hamptons Jitney Bus From NYC To The Hamptons
Bikes and surf boards can be stored in the luggage bay for an added fee. Pets are allowed in approved carriers and also require a fee.
The Jitney bus stops, for the most part, are nondescript — no ticket office, just a very small sign confirming you’re in the right spot. The Southampton stop does have a building with restrooms and cafe.
Be sure to arrive about 10 minutes before departure. Don’t be alarmed if the bus is late, and don’t worry if a bus passes you — especially in summer when there are many lines running at one time, and even multiple buses per route.
I found the Jitney bus service to be the best way to get between NYC and eastern Long Island during my time living in the Hamptons.
NYC To The Hamptons By Helicopter – BLADE
For the quickest way to the beautiful beaches of the Hamptons, you’ll want to hit the sky.
BLADE offers helicopter service into the Hamptons, think Uber gone helicopter. It may be pricey but it’ll get you to the East End in under an hour.
There are various routes throughout the year, with summer having the most options. BLADE offers scheduled, chartered, and crowdsource flights, which I’ll get into below.
Helicopters depart NYC from helipads located in west Manhattan, east Manhattan, and Wall Street. These helipads each have luxury lounges with amenities such as a bar, snacks, chic decor, and staff members to ensure smooth check in.
Most scheduled flights land at East Hampton Airport or Montauk Airport.
For those chartering, there are additional landing site options, such as Southampton and Westhampton.
One way tickets range from about $750 – 1,500 for scheduled flights.
Private charters start at $4,500.
BLADE also offers a crowdsourcing option. By launching a crowdsourced flight, you fly when you want, for the same price as the charter. However, in this case you have the potential to earn back credits for seats purchased by other users on your flight.
Reservations can be booked through the BLADE app or online at BLADE. Additionally, flights can be booked over the phone for an added fee.
There’s no membership requirement or anything along those lines, anyone can book.
Tips For Riding A BLADE Helicopter From NYC To The Hamptons
There are luggage restrictions due to weight requirements. If flying a scheduled flight with other passengers, large items — like golf clubs, bikes, and large luggage — will be transported to the Hamptons via ToteTaxi for an additional fee.
Pets are allowed for an added fee.
If needed, BLADE will arrange transportation services to and from their helipads.
Helicopter To The Hamptons From Locations Outside Of New York City
BLADE also has helipads in New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia, D.C., and Westchester, New York, to name a few.
These helipads may not have scheduled flights but will have private helicopter options.
Seaplane To The Hamptons
BLADE also offers seaplanes from NYC to the Hamptons.
The seaplanes depart from the BLADE Aqua Lounge on East 23rd Street in Manhattan. Booking requires a chartered flight and various landing points are offered.
Reservations can be booked through the BLADE app or online at BLADE.
Again, there’s no membership requirement or anything along those lines to fly BLADE, anyone can book.
Commercial Flights To The Hamptons
There are no commercial flights directly to the Hamptons.
Long Island MacArthur Airport
The nearest airport to the Hamptons with commercial flights is Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP), often referred to as Islip.
Islip is a small regional airport, primarily serviced by Southwest Airlines. You can find frequent daily flights to Islip from around the East Coast. Those coming from further points in the United States will connect to ISP via a larger airport such as Baltimore (BWI).
Islip is located about an hour (45 miles) from the Hamptons. Upon arrival you can take the train into the Hamptons, the LIRR stops at the Ronkonkoma Station which is 1 mile from Islip Airport.
Additionally, you can drive to the Hamptons from here. There are various car rental options serving Islip Airport.
New York City Airports
New York City airports include:
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – 80 miles to Southampton
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA) – 85 miles to Southampton
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – 111 miles to Southampton
Each of these are large airports serviced by almost all major airlines.
Getting to the Hamptons from these airports can be done by renting a car, hiring a driver, taking a bus, or train, all of which I detailed above. Below are a few extra tips for each airport:
Getting To The Hamptons From JFK Airport
If driving to the Hamptons you can rent a car from from JFK. Then follow my directions from the beginning of this post on how to drive from NYC to the Hamptons.
If riding the train, take the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station, which connects with the LIRR.
If taking the Jitney, hire a cab/Uber/Lyft to the Jitney pick up location in Queens (Hampton Jitney Airport Connection). It’s possible to take public transportation to this pick up location but it will involve multiple transfers.
Those flying a BLADE helicopter, there is a BLADE helipad at JFK airport.
Getting To The Hamptons From LaGuardia Airport
Those driving, rent a car from LaGuardia Airport. Then then follow my directions from the beginning of this post on how to drive from NYC to the Hamptons.
If taking the LIRR, from LaGuardia take a cab/Uber/Lyft to Jamaica Station, then connect to the LIRR. It’s possible to get from LGA to Jamaica utilizing public transportation but multiple transfers are required.
For those taking the Jitney, hire a cab/Uber/Lyft to the Jitney pick up location in Queens (Hampton Jitney Airport Connection). Again, it’s possible to take public transportation to this pick up point but it will involve multiple transfers.
Flying a BLADE helicopter? There is a BLADE helipad at LGA airport.
Getting To The Hamptons From Newark Liberty International Airport
You can rent a car at Newark and drive to the Hamptons. Keep in mind Newark is located west of New York City, meaning you’ll need to get around Manhattan before making your way onto Long Island. This is time consuming.
Newark may not seem that much further from the Hamptons, compared to LGA or JFK, but it will add at least an additional hour of drive time. On top of that, you will pay much higher toll fees from Newark than from the other two airports.
If taking public transportation, take the NJ Transit train into Penn Station. From Penn Station you can connect to the Long Island Rail Road.
If taking the Jitney, from Penn Station walk, cab, or subway to the nearest Jitney pick up location.
Those flying a BLADE helicopter, there is a BLADE helipad at Newark.
Ferry To The Hamptons
If driving from the New England area it’s best to avoid NYC, instead take a ferry from Connecticut to Long Island.
Ferry From New London To Orient Point
The Cross Sound Ferry transports passengers from New London, CT to Orient Point on Long Island’s North Fork year-round.
This is a large ferry with onboard services such as food, beverages, and ample seating areas. The ferry does allow cars, including oversize vehicles and trailers. The ride is 1 hour, 20 minutes in each direction plus extra time for loading and unloading.
Fares vary based on peak vs. non peak travel times, expect to spend about $70 – 100 each way for a standard size vehicle. Reservations need to be made in advance, especially for those bringing a vehicle. You can book online at Cross Sound Ferry.
Orient Point is located on Long Island’s North Fork. To get to the Hamptons from here you’ll need to drive to the South Fork.
There’s two route options, you can either drive to the Hamptons via Riverhead or drive across Shelter Island which involves two more quick ferry rides.
Which route is better depends where you’re going in the Hamptons. For example, it’s quickest to drive to the Village of Southampton, whereas it’s faster to ferry to Sag Harbor or East Hampton, etc.
Driving To The Hamptons From Orient Point
Take Highway 25 or 48 west towards Riverhead, then head south to Highway 27 which will take you right into the Hamptons.
Orient Point to the Village of Southampton is 45 miles and requires about an hour of driving, more time with traffic.
Note: Most roads along the North Fork are narrow, two-lane highways which can be very congested during weekends.
Drive & Ferry To The Hamptons (via Shelter Island) From Orient Point
From Orient Point you’ll drive to Greenport (9 miles) and take the North Ferry to Shelter Island’s north shore.
You’ll then drive 4.5 miles across Shelter Island, where you’ll hop onto another ferry. The South Ferry departs the island’s south shore and arrives in North Haven of Sag Harbor. You are now in the Hamptons.
The ferry drop off point in North Haven is about 5 minutes (3 miles) from downtown Sag Harbor.
Both the North Ferry and South Ferry are operated by different companies but are extremely similar, as far as riders are concerned.
Both ferry rides are very quick, about 10 – 15 minutes each way.
The boats are small and run very frequently, there are no reservations for vehicles or individuals. We’ve never had to wait more than 15 minutes for a ferry. However, wait times will be longer during high peak times, such as holiday weekends.
The one way fee is about $17/ vehicle for each ferry. The round trip fares are for same day round trip only.
Cash is required for both the North Ferry and South Ferry.
Find more information about the North Ferry here: North Ferry Shelter Island
Find more information about the South Ferry here: South Ferry Shelter Island
Ferry From Bridgeport To Port Jefferson
The Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry transports passengers from Bridgeport, CT to Port Jefferson on Long Island year-round.
This is a large ferry with onboard services such as food, beverages, and ample seating areas. The ferry does allow cars, including oversize vehicles and trailers. The ride is 1 hour, 15 minutes in each direction plus extra time for loading and unloading.
Fares vary based on peak vs. non peak travel times, expect to spend about $70 – 80 each way for a standard size vehicle. Reservations need to be made in advance, especially for those bringing a vehicle. You can book online at Bridgeport – Port Jefferson Ferry.
Getting From Port Jefferson To The Hamptons
Port Jefferson is just over an hour from the Village of Southampton (45 miles) and nearly 2 hours from Montauk (70 miles).
To get from Port Jefferson to the Hamptons you’ll follow Highway 112 south to I-495 (the Long Island Expressway). You’ll then take 111 to Highway 27 which eventually turns into Montauk Highway and leads you straight into the Hamptons.
Ferry To Montauk
The Viking Fleet offers fast ferries from New London, CT or Block Island, RI to Montauk.
Viking Fleet does not allow cars, so this option will only work for specific travelers.
The ferry does not travel every day and only offers a few routes per day.
Both the New London and Block Island ferries are about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Montauk.
One way fees are about $45/ person to Block Island and $55/ person to New London. Reservations should be booked in advance online at Viking Fleet. Bookings made over the phone, onboard, or at the office will incur additional fees.
This is a seasonal ferry, usually running May – October.
Is There A Ferry From NYC To The Hamptons?
There is no public ferry from New York City to the Hamptons.
Other Ways To Get To The Hamptons
Uber/Lyft/Cab
People often ask, “Can you Uber from NYC to the Hamptons and vice versa?”
The answer is yes.
It’s going to be expensive and there’s not a guarantee you’ll find a driver who approves the ride.
However, if you’re in a pinch and don’t have time to arrange other transportation, this is probably a fair option.
Conversely, if you do have time, I’d recommend hiring a professional driver over an Uber. Why pay nearly the same price for an Uber or Lyft when you could be in a luxury Town Car instead?
Hire A Tour Guide
If you’re only visiting the Hamptons for a day trip and don’t want to drive yourself, I’d recommend hiring a tour guide.
Most guides offer private tours only, so it’s definitely no free ride. But if you’re traveling with a small group the price per person is reasonable.
The private tour is especially great in that the itinerary is customizable and provides a personalized experience.
You can book your private tour here: NYC To The Hamptons Private Day Trip
Private Plane To The Hamptons
If traveling from NYC to the Hamptons a helicopter or seaplane is the easiest flight option, which I covered above.
However, for those coming from locations further away — throughout the East Coast, United States, or international — a private plane is the way to go.
Netjets is one of the top companies for private jet services. They offer various planes from light jets to long-range jets, with chartered flights into East Hampton Airport.
You can book directly through Netjets. If you’re wondering how to get to the Hamptons in style, this is your answer.
What Is The Best Way To Get To The Hamptons?
The answer to this depends on a few factors.
If money is no object, the best way to get to the Hamptons from NYC is via helicopter.
If budget is a consideration, the best way to get to the Hamptons is by driving or taking the Long Island Rail Road. Additionally, taking the train to the Hamptons is a great way to go for any travelers during peak summer hours when roadways are backed up.
Mid-budget travelers looking for a convenient way to get to the South Fork will enjoy the Jitney bus to the Hamptons.
Those coming from the New England area, such as Boston, the best way to get to the Hamptons is by driving then taking a ferry across the Long Island Sound.
I hope you’ve found this helpful in determining how best to get to the Hamptons! This is a wonderful destination and you’re sure to have the best time. Happy travels!
Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Hamptons and New York guides.
More Information For Your Hamptons Vacation:
- Amagansett Guides
- East Hampton Guides
- Montauk Guides
- Sag Harbor Guides
- Southampton Guides
- Best Wineries In The Hamptons
- What To Know Before Booking Your Hamptons Vacation
- Where To Stay In The Hamptons
- What to Wear In The Hamptons
- Spring In The Hamptons: Top Things To Do
- Summer In The Hamptons: Top Things To Do
- Fall In The Hamptons: Top Things To Do
- Winter In The Hamptons: Top Things To Do
- Christmas In The Hamptons: Top Things To Do
More Information For Your Trip To New York State:
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I want to drive to the Hamptons from Manhattan stay and explore a couple of days then take the ferry across and go on up the East Coast where should I stay and where can I catch the ferry how does it all work thank you
Hi Jack,
What an exciting trip!
To catch the ferry you’ll go to either Orient Point or Point Jefferson, this will take you to Connecticut. There’s more information in the “Ferry to the Hamptons” section. Regarding what to do on the East Coast, check out my post 9 Day Southern New England Road Trip guide. We spent 9 days in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. If you have more time head further north to check out Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire. We did a 9 day road trip through those three states as well, with nights in Portland and Bar Harbor, ME, North Conway, NH, and then Burlington, VT. We loved New England.
Regarding where to stay in the Hamptons I like Southampton, East Hampton, or Montauk. But there are many good options, I have a complete post linked here: Where To Stay In The Hamptons.
Good luck and enjoy your trip!