What if the Hamptons wasn’t your end destination, but the starting point of your next adventure? Scroll through for the perfect spots to explore this summer for day trips from the Hamptons. From vineyards to beaches, scenic hikes, lavender fields, honey bee tours, hydrangea farms, and picturesque beachside meals, we have the perfect adventure to satisfy your wanderlust.
Duryea’s at Orient Point
Although Montauk institution Duryea’s opened its new location at Orient Point just last summer, it is already a hit. The second location, nestled in a large marina, not only brings you spectacular ocean views along with the, of course, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, but also new, Greek-inspired plates. Hop on board your yacht (or invite yourself on a friend’s) and sail on over to this spot for the perfect meal away from the hustle and bustle of the Hamptons.
Duryea’s at Orient Point; 40200 Main Rd, Orient Point
[Photo courtesy of Duryea’s at Orient Point]
Shelter Island
Shelter Island, located north of the Hamptons, is the perfect island getaway for those who want to escape the more crowded Long Island for the day. Although it may look small, Shelter Island offers a laundry list of fun activities that could keep you entertained for much longer than a couple of hours.
Check out some of the beloved public beaches, like Crescent, Wades, or Shell Beach, to dig your toes in the sand and jump in the water (if you can brave the refreshingly cold bay). You can even rent a bike at Piccozzi’s Bike Shop to get to the beach or explore around the island. If you are planning on driving to any of the beaches, however, just make sure to grab a parking permit so you are all set to stay a while.
Not a beach person? No worries. Explore the trails at Mashomack Nature Preserve, considered one of the richest habitats in the northeast, and stand in awe as you take in the gorgeous coastal views and perhaps even some animal sightings! After all the walking (or, if you’re more like me, lounging on the beach) grab a bite at Vine Street Cafe, a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Finally, stop by the hotel and restaurant Sunset Beach, for a cocktail with a view and delicious dinner and, who knows, maybe even spend the night!
[Photo via @vinestreetcafe]
North Fork Vineyards
For those looking for a more classic day trip away from the Hamptons, a fun and relaxing afternoon at a local vineyard, I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend heading to the North Fork. With around 40 wineries and 3000 acres of planted vineyards, the North Fork is definitely mandatory for anyone craving the idyllic summer vineyard view.
Book an appointment at Kontokosta Winery, open seven days a week, to enjoy this Greenport waterfront winery and tasting room. Or, perhaps visit Rose Hill Vineyards, previously Shinn Estate Vineyards, in Mattituck, where you can not only sip on wine while you lounge on the gorgeous patio, but even stay the night in one of the cozy guest rooms. If you are looking for something a little more spontaneous, i.e., no reservations required, head over to Cutchogue’s Bedell Cellars family-owned winery any day of the week to taste wine from some of the oldest grapevines in the country. Whichever vineyard you choose, you are in for a treat as you sit back, admire the view, and try a glass (or two or three…)
[Photo via @rosehillvineyards]
Orient Beach State Park
Orient Beach State Park, on the eastern tip of Long Island, is definitely worth a visit for anyone who appreciates a gorgeous view (nature lover or not). The park is situated on the coast of Gardiner’s Bay, making it an idyllic waterfront location and earning it the designation of a National Natural Landmark. The park’s natural beauty not only stems from the coastal scenery, but its rare maritime forest, saltwater marsh, and marine wildlife. Whether you are looking for a perfect picnic spot, a scenic hike, a peaceful paddle board spot, or just somewhere to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Orient Beach State Park provides the perfect day excursion.
Orient Beach State Park, 40000 Main Rd, Orient
[Photo courtesy of discoverlongisland.com]
Lavender by the Bay
Honestly, what could be prettier or simply smell as good as a lavender farm? I mean, it’s basically a spa for the senses. If you are looking for a magical experience, you won’t have to wander any further than through this 17-acre lavender farm in East Marion. Open Saturday and Sunday, it is hard to think of a better or more relaxing way to spend your weekend. Thankfully, after you walk through the intoxicating lavender fields, you don’t have to leave the aroma behind; their farm store offers a variety of lavender products and essentials you won’t want to leave without. During the season, there are three blooming periods — mid-June, early July and late Summer/early Fall. The farm grows both English lavender and French lavender which come into flower and peak at different times. The best time to visit is in early July when the French lavender is at its height.
Lavender by the Bay; 7540 Main Rd, East Marion
[Photo via @lavendarbythebay]
Salt Air Farm
Although Salt Air Farm is known as one of the most magical places to get married, you don’t need to be exchanging vows to enjoy the scenic beauty of this place. Not only does the farm offer the perfect bouquet, but also hydrangeas and “buckets of blooms” perfect for every and any day. You can even join its seasonal flower CSA and receive a weekly bucket of your choice of flowers that you can pick up Thursday or Friday all summer long. Of course, such beautiful flowers are not possible without the bees! Salt Air Farm not only offers pure sweet honey (that I promise you’ll be eating by the spoonful, no tea needed), but also honey bee and pollinator tours! This rare experience will have you appreciating honey and flowers like never before as you check out the farm’s apiary and see the bees at work in the hive or go on an entomology hike through the farm. Would it be too predictable to say this place definitely deserves all the buzz?
Salt Air Farm, 1535 New Suffolk Rd, Cutchogue
[Photo courtesy of Salt Air Farm]
Westhampton Beach
Yes, it is technically a “Hampton,” but since it’s not included in the list of high-end neighborhoods commonly referred to as “the Hamptons” during the summer — we are throwing it on the list! The reconstruction of Westhampton Beach’s Main Street was completed last year, and now we can finally benefit from the shops and restaurants the street has to offer. As new businesses pop up, it is definitely worth a visit to explore the new possible go-to places that will be putting the revitalized Main Street back on the map. Swing by North Fork Roasting Co. to pick up a cup of coffee and some baked goods for the road. Then walk on in to Brunetti’s new spot on Main Street to enjoy its bigger space and new menu offering both classic pies and pies with more unusual (and delicious) toppings. Of course, don’t forget to do some shopping while you’re there. I recommend Palmer & Purchase, NIBI Westhampton Beach, and Mixology.
Main Street, Westhampton Beach
[Photo via @brunettipizzawhb]
