Where To Stay In The Hamptons? Everything You Need To Know About The Most Popular Hotspots & Hotels

Far east on the South Fork of Long Island is a series of hamlets famously known as the Hamptons.

Rappers have rapped about it, countless shows and books have been inspired by it, and artists have flocked here for generations.

Needless to say, this summer vacation destination has captured the attention of many thanks to fantastic beaches, a remote setting, and charming towns.

I spent a year living in the Hamptons and regularly return to visit family. It’s an incredible place!

Planning to see it for yourself and wondering what part of the Hamptons is best to stay in? Read on for everything to know about the most popular hotspots and where to stay in the Hamptons!

Woman sitting on beach in red bathing suit and white linen cover up. White sand beach with Atlantic Ocean in background on sunny summer day. Sagg Main Beach, Sagaponack, New York, The Hamptons. — Where to stay in the Hamptons

Sunset behind large, historic wooden grain mill with boats and harbor in background. Sag Harbor Yacht Yard, Sag Harbor, New York, The Hamptons. — Where to stay in the Hamptons

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In The Hamptons

A Few Things To Know About Staying In The Hamptons:

The Hamptons are a collection of roughly 20 hamlets on the far southeast end of Long Island, about 90 miles from New York City. The area stretches from Westhampton to Montauk, with about an hour and a half drive between the two.
It can be time consuming getting around the Hamptons, what may appear to be a short drive down Montauk Highway is often a process thanks to traffic.
Memorial Day through Labor Day is high season and therefore sees the most expensive hotel prices. Shoulder seasons, such as late spring and early fall, are great if you’re looking for lower hotel prices. Winter sees cold weather and business closures, so this is the best time to snag a hotel deal and enjoy the quiet.
There are no chain hotels in the Hamptons, most are of the luxury boutique or B&B variety.
Most hotels book far in advance and have minimum stay requirements.
Airbnb and VRBO rentals are available but may be limited.

East Hampton

East Hampton is one of the most iconic towns in the Hamptons, known for celebrities, socialites, and generations of old-money families. Time spent here usually revolves around browsing designer boutiques, dining at excellent restaurants, and relaxing on some beautiful beaches.

Because it’s one of the larger towns in the Hamptons, East Hampton also has a strong arts and culture scene. You’ll find art galleries, museums like LongHouse Reserve, and cultural venues such as Guild Hall hosting exhibitions and performances throughout the season. Between the beach, the charming village center, and its tree-lined residential streets filled with historic homes and grand estates, East Hampton offers a classic Hamptons experience.

One downside to staying in East Hampton is that it’s one of the more expensive hamlets, and hotel options are limited. Also, since Montauk Highway runs directly through the center of downtown, parts of the village can feel a little less quaint and charming than you might expect.

East Hampton is centrally located within the Hamptons, which makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby towns like Amagansett, Sag Harbor, and Montauk. It’s also relatively easy to reach whether you’re driving out from New York City, taking the Jitney to the East Hampton stop, or taking the train to East Hampton Station.

Tip: Nearby hamlets like Springs and Northwest Harbor can also be great places to stay if you want to be close to East Hampton while enjoying a slightly quieter setting.

Where To Stay In East Hampton

Almost all hotels listed here are within walking distance of the heart of East Hampton.

Luxury: The Baker House 1650
Mid-budget: The Huntting Inn or Journey East Hampton
Budget: East Hampton House Resort

Tall white lifeguard stand overlooking Atlantic Ocean with beach crowded with beach-goers on sunny summer day. Main Beach, East Hampton, New York The Hamptons. Where to stay in the Hamptons. — East Hampton

Two-story grey shingled building with white trim, doors, and benches, surrounded by green lawn and hydrangea flowers, sign above door reads "Chanel". Chanel Store, East Hampton, New York, The Hamptons. — East Hampton

Amagansett

Amagansett is East Hampton’s chill neighbor with excellent beaches, a charming little downtown, and an adorable community farm stand.

You can spend the morning browsing shops in Amagansett Square, grab a bite at the famous Lobster Roll, or catch live music at Stephen Talkhouse — one of the most iconic small music venues in the Hamptons. Of course, the beaches are also a big draw here, especially Atlantic Avenue Beach.

Amagansett is also one of the better places to stay in the Hamptons if you’re hoping to spend a little less on accommodations. There are a handful of smaller motels and casual hotels that tend to be more affordable than those in nearby towns. That said, “affordable” is always relative in the Hamptons, and prices can still climb quickly during peak summer weekends. Additionally, Amagansett is small and has limited ‘things to do’ compared to other options on this list.

Because of its central location along Montauk Highway and the nearby train station, Amagansett is also relatively easy to reach from New York City and makes a convenient base for exploring other hamlets nearby.

Where To Stay In Amagansett

Luxury: The Roundtree Amagansett
Mid-budget: The Hermitage at Napeague – oceanfront hotel with apartment-style rooms.
Budget: Windward Shores Ocean Resort

Farmstand and indoor market surrounded by pumpkins and fall decor, teal bistro tables and teal sign reading "Amber Waves". Amber Waves Farm Stand, Amagansett, New York, The Hamptons. — Amagansett, New York

Photo of Montauk Native American Stephen Talkhouse hanging behind stage in dimly lit small concert music venue. Stephen Talkhouse Concert Hall, Amagansett, New York The Hamptons. Where to stay in the Hamptons. — Amagansett, New York

Sag Harbor

If you’re looking for charm, Sag Harbor is easily one of the best places to stay in the Hamptons. This historic village has a noticeably more laid-back, small-town feel compared to some of the more famous nearby hamlets.

Sag Harbor’s waterfront setting is a big part of its appeal. The harbor sits right across from Main Street and in summer is filled with sailboats and yachts. The downtown is lined with independent boutiques, galleries, and excellent restaurants. The village also has a long maritime history, which you can learn more about at the Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum. For beach time, Foster Memorial Beach (often called Long Beach) is a local favorite thanks to its calm waters and beautiful views.

Because Sag Harbor sits slightly inland compared to some of the oceanfront hamlets, it often feels a little quieter and more relaxed while still offering plenty to do. Many visitors love it for its charming streets, historic homes, and lively but approachable village atmosphere.

Sag Harbor is also fairly central within the Hamptons, making it easy to explore nearby towns like East Hampton, Bridgehampton, and Southampton while still enjoying the village’s slower pace.

Where To Stay In Sag Harbor:

All three hotels are within walking distance of Sag Harbor’s popular Main Street.

Luxury: The American Hotel – Historic hotel right in downtown.
Luxury: Faraway Sag Harbor (formerly Baron’s Cove) – Popular for their waterfront views and live music!
Mid-budget: Sag Harbor Inn

For more ideas and detailed information check out The Best Sag Harbor Hotels.

White building standing between two brick buildings with large red neon sign reading "SAG HARBOR". Sag Harbor Cinema, Sag Harbor, New York, The Hamptons. — Sag Harbor, New York

Two white mega yachts docked in calm waters of Sag Harbor during sunset in summer. Sag Harbor Yacht Yard, Sag Harbor, New York, The Hamptons. — Sag Harbor, New York

Southampton

As one of the largest and most well-known villages in the Hamptons, Southampton offers a little bit of everything — from high-end shopping and excellent dining to some of the area’s most famous beaches.

This is one of the more lively parts of the Hamptons, especially in the summer, with a social scene that tends to draw a mix of celebrities, authors, politicians, and athletes. Main Street is at the center of it all, lined with designer boutiques, restaurants, and cafés, while nearby spots like the Southampton Arts Center and Southampton History Museum add a cultural element to your visit.

The beaches here are a major highlight, particularly Coopers Beach, which is often ranked among the best in the country. Just beyond the village center, Meadow Lane — sometimes referred to as “Billionaires Row” — is known for its stretch of impressive oceanfront estates.

Because of its size and variety of things to do, Southampton is a great option if you’re looking for a more active, well-rounded Hamptons stay with plenty of dining, shopping, and beach access all in one place.

The downside? Hotel options are extremely limited, so don’t plan on booking last minute!

Where To Stay In Southampton

Each of these hotels is just a short walk or cab ride away from some of the best dining and nightlife in the Hamptons.

Luxury: The 1708 House – historic bed & breakfast, centrally located in center of Village.
Mid-budget: Southampton Inn – largest hotel in Southampton with long list of amenities, beach shuttle, and walking distance to Village.
Budget: Hamlet Inn – budget-friendly boutique hotel, just short drive from Village and beaches.

For more ideas and information, check out my guide to the Best Hotels In Southampton, New York.

Brick lined sidewalk shaded by large trees lined with brick buildings and outdoor restaurant seating with white linen table clothes and flowers. Village of Southampton Main Street, New York The Hamptons. Where to stay in the Hamptons. — Southampton, New York

Man and woman kayaking in blue kayaks in calm water near green grass with large trees in the distance on a sunny summer day. North Haven, Sag Harbor, New York, The Hamptons. — Southampton, New York

Bridgehampton

Another one of the larger hamlets, Bridgehampton is known for its central location and its role as a hub for some of the Hamptons’ biggest events, including the Hampton Classic Horse Show and polo matches throughout the summer.

The village itself has a classic Hamptons feel, with a small but lively Main Street lined with boutiques, restaurants, and local staples like Candy Kitchen. Beyond town, you’re surrounded by some of the area’s best attractions — from wineries like Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Channing Daughters to scenic spots like Bridge Gardens and Mecox Beach.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Bridgehampton is how centrally located it is. You’re just a short drive from Southampton, East Hampton, Sag Harbor, and several beaches, which makes it easy to explore multiple hamlets without constantly relocating. It’s also a great base if you’re planning to visit a mix of beaches, vineyards, and local attractions.

The main downside here is traffic and crowds — this stretch of Montauk Highway can get especially congested during peak summer weekends, which is something to keep in mind when planning your days.

Where To Stay In Bridgehampton

Bridgehampton’s excellent location means it’s home to some of the nicest hotels in the Hamptons.

Luxury: Topping Rose House – one of the most sought-after, luxury properties in the Hamptons.
Mid-budget: A Room At The Beach – stylish boutique motel with outdoor pool.
Mid-budget: Bridgehampton Inn – charming, centrally located inn walkable to Main Street.

Purple flowers in foreground with lily pad covered pond and bushes/ trees in background. Bridge Gardens, Bridgehampton, New York, The Hamptons. — Bridgehampton, New York

White sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean. Sagg Main Beach, Sagaponack, New York, The Hamptons — Bridgehampton, New York

Montauk

Montauk is one of the most beloved — and most distinct — hamlets in the Hamptons. Known for its surf culture, wide sandy beaches, and lively nightlife, it has a noticeably more relaxed, beach-town feel compared to some of the more polished villages further west.

Located at the far eastern end of Long Island, Montauk is the most remote of the Hamptons hamlets, but that’s a big part of its appeal. You’ll find a strong focus on the outdoors here, with multiple state parks, scenic coastal trails, and popular beaches like Ditch Plains drawing surfers and beachgoers throughout the summer. Landmarks like Montauk Point Lighthouse are worth the visit, and sunset at one of the town’s waterfront restaurants or bars is pretty hard to beat.

Montauk is also one of the best places in the Hamptons to book a hotel right on the water, with a wider selection of beachfront and oceanfront stays than most other hamlets.

The main downside is the distance — it takes longer to get here, and traffic can make the drive feel even longer, especially on summer weekends. That said, if you’re planning to spend most of your time in Montauk, the extra effort to get here is usually worth it.

Where To Stay In Montauk

Montauk has the widest variety of hotels in the Hamptons, below are a few favorites:

Luxury: Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa – one of the only Hamptons hotels with a private beach, and overall one of the area’s nicest resorts.
Mid-budget: Hero Beach Club – boutique motel with a long list of amenities.
Budget: Daunt’s Albatross – renovated motel in central location, long-time family-owned with great reviews.

For more ideas and additional information, check out the Best Hotels In Montauk, New York.

Shingled building with surf boards propped on front patio with purple flowers. Shopping Montauk, New York, The Hamptons. — Montauk, New York

Sunset overlooking the ocean with string lights, orange umbrella, and picnic benches on dock sitting over the water. Montaukett Bar & Restaurant, Montauk, New York, The Hamptons. — Montauk, New York

Westhampton & Westhampton Beach

The neighboring villages of Westhampton and Westhampton Beach sit on the western end of the Hamptons, making them a bit removed from the busier central and eastern hamlets. That distance tends to keep things a little more relaxed, while still offering plenty to do.

Westhampton Beach, in particular, has a charming and walkable downtown with shops, restaurants, and local spots like the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, which regularly hosts shows and events. The beaches along Dune Road are a major highlight — wide, scenic, and often a little less crowded than some of the more well-known Hamptons beaches.

This area is also great if you’re looking for a quieter home base that still has a bit of energy, especially in the evenings. You can easily spend your time biking along Dune Road, browsing Main Street, or even taking a day trip over to Fire Island.

Because of their location, Westhampton and Westhampton Beach are typically easier to reach from New York City than places further east, which can make a noticeable difference when it comes to traffic and overall travel time. The downside? You’re removed from the more popular hamlets and this area doesn’t have the same polish and allure as the rest of the Hamptons.

Tip: Nearby areas like Quogue and Hampton Bays are also worth considering, especially if you’re looking for more accommodation options or slightly lower prices.

Where To Stay In Westhampton & The Surrounding Area

Below are a variety of luxury and budget-friendly hotel options throughout Westhampton, Westhampton Beach, Quogue, and Hampton Bays.

Luxury: Hampton Maid Motel – this luxury hotel is located on the eastern edge of Hampton Bays near Southampton.
Mid-budget: The Quogue Club at Hallock House – upscale boutique hotel set in a restored historic home.
Budget: Three Ducks Hotel – boutique stay with a relaxed, modern feel, stylish rooms, and a pool.

Yachts, sailboats, and regular boats dotting the water of Sag Harbor in the distance with lush green vegetation in the foreground on bright blue sunny day. Sag Harbor Yacht Yard, Sag Harbor, New York, The Hamptons. — Westhampton, New York

The Hamptons can feel a little overwhelming at first, but choosing the right place to stay makes a huge difference. Whether you’re here for beach days, great food, or a mix of everything, there’s a spot that fits your travel style. I hope this has helped you narrow down where to stay in the Hamptons and have a wonderful vacation!

Any questions or additional suggestions? Please leave a comment below!

Looking for more ideas? Head on over to my Hamptons \ guides below.