When enjoying time in the Hamptons, many visitors spend time at one of the beaches, which just happen to be some of the best in all of America. Coopers Beach in the village of Southampton consistently ranks as one of the top-rated and exclusive beaches in Long Island and all of the East Coast. Another Long Island natural wonder, Main Beach in East Hampton, is typically included on the same lists as the nearby beach in Southampton.

Known for soft white sand and shorelines that seem to go on forever, New York beaches along Long Island, including Coopers Beach, are prized natural spaces. With state parks, city beaches, federal preserves, and other protected spaces, Long Island beaches truly offer variety, attracting sun worshippers, sports enthusiasts, anglers, and athletes.

The beaches of the South Fork of Long Island occupy prime acres along the Atlantic Ocean, where the big waves delight surfers. Located just under 100 miles from Manhattan, Coopers Beach Southampton offers a long stretch of white sand primed for fun and relaxation. Visitors who want to leave the traffic behind can hop aboard the Long Island Rail Road, which offers regular service between Manhattan and the South Fork.

New York Map

In season, Coopers Beach opens every morning at 9 a.m., and the small parking lot fills up quickly. Many visitors arrive on foot or bicycle. After visitors have stepped onto the sand, the hardest thing is deciding what to do first. Some make a beeline for the Atlantic Ocean, others start with a walk, and some start with snooze in the sun. Whatever activities they choose to enjoy, those who visit Coopers Beach Southampton will be treated to views of the ocean contrasted by the mansions off in the distance.

A concession stand, fresh-water showers, chair rentals, and umbrellas are available for visitor comfort at Coopers Beach Southampton. Lifeguards typically are on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During this stretch of time, the Southampton Cultural Center sponsors free concerts at Coopers Beach and Agawam Park. The arts organization also brings Broadway-style shows to the stage, offers classes, sponsors the Peconic Youth Orchestra, and stages a variety of exhibits throughout the year. Many of the events are free, thanks to the generous donors. The plays require tickets, which should be purchased in advance.

Parking permits are required at this Southampton Beach as well as the other oceanfront parks. A daily parking permit can be purchased onsite, or visitors can purchase an annual pass from the Village Clerk provides access to all of the beaches.

In total, the city of Southampton maintains eleven beaches over seven miles of prime shoreline, including Coopers Beach. Long Island visitors who want to spend time at a Southampton Beach also can consider time at one of the smaller beaches, such as Old Town, Folwers Lane, Cyrder, Little Plains, and others. Vacationers should take note that one Southampton beach, Dune Beach, is only open to city residents. Permits are still required for city residents for all of the beaches, but no fee is required.

In addition to Coopers Beach, Southampton visitors can connect with history, make reservations at New York Beach hotels, and enjoy the posh atmosphere of the Hamptons. The Parrish Art Museum, found in the heart of the small village, focuses on American art of the nineteenth century, especially that focusing on the eastern end of Long Island. Many of the artists were inspired by the same beautiful landscapes that today's visitors come to enjoy.