East Hampton NY is enveloped by pristine bays, ocean beaches, and scenic county roads. It is a vintners’ playground and an inspiration to artists near and far. Misty mornings, lazy beach days, and moonlit nights create the peaceful feel that is the ultimate allure. Theaters and galleries, world-class dining spots, and a wide array of shops await. Outdoors, the activities are endless and the attractions all around; Amagansett’s farmer’s market, Montauk’s fishing boats, and antiquing in Sag Harbor is the tip of the iceberg when vacationing in East Hampton.

East Hampton History

East Hampton NY was founded just four years after Southampton, also by Europeans who initially considered it part of Northampton. It was in 1785 that the village was officially named East Hampton, becoming its own separate entity and then eventually became a town in 1809. The Manhan River was the lifeblood of the Hamptons and the river which East Hampton evolved around as an agriculturally-based community. Once the industrial revolution hit, East Hampton saw its fair share of factories and mills connected mainly to the textile manufacturing industry. The first bank and high school opened in 1864, followed by the town hall just five years after. It was in 1871 that the town became a mainstay stop on the railroad, followed by an influx of new residents. Most of East Hampton’s industry survived both WW1 and WWII, eking out existence through federal contracts with their textile companies. These days the town’s more established businesses, along with smaller farms, create strength in East Hampton’s economy. There is a thriving art community now and a larger artist-based population.

East Hampton Parks

East Hampton boasts seven state parks and one state golf course adding a host of things to do while visiting. Ditch the crowds and spend an afternoon lying on a beautiful Amsterdam Beach. The adventurous way to get there is to leave your vehicle at the Ditch Plains Beach parking area and walk the mile along Montauk Shores. Follow the east path along a series of sandy inlets and craggy points to the steep bluffs. The alternative is to park on the (unmistakable) lot at the corner of Old Montauk Highway and Rte 27. Camp Hero State Park on Montauk Point offers fishing, biking, hiking, and a great beach. At Hither Hills, a playground, picnic tables, and a campground make it popular with families. Activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, and swimming at the beach. Other parks include Montauk Downs, Montauk Point, Napeague, and Sag Harbor state parks.

East Hampton NY Beaches

There are five East Hampton NY beaches to choose from, all owned and maintained by East Hampton Village. Lifeguards are stationed from 10am to 5pm at three of the five beaches; Main Beach, Two Mile Hollow Beach, and Georgica Beach. Wiborg and Egypt Beach are the two remaining, unmanned beaches. There is a color flag system used by the village to indicate swimming conditions at the beaches; A white flag indicates safe swimming conditions, a blue flag shows visitors to use caution when swimming, and a red flag indicates dangerous conditions. If there is no flag flying then there is no swimming allowed.

East Hampton NY Hotels

A walk down Main Street reveals several of the most popular East Hampton NY hotels. The Mill House is a luxury bed and breakfast offering dog and child-friendly suites, a sweeping veranda, relaxing outdoor spaces, and scenic grounds. The 1770 House has been a fine hotel for more than 200 years. In the heart of the village, it features only six spectacular rooms and one very elegant and distinguished carriage house. As a boutique hotel, c/o The Maidstone is unique, offering Yappy Hour for your dog, complimentary yoga, and suites and cottages with names like Alfred Nobel Duplex Cottage and Birgit Nilsson Suite. The owners’ Scandinavian background is discernible throughout.