Hamptons Staycation

You don’t have to travel far to get away. It’s the perfect tagline for nearly any tourist hotspot with a year-round population. Whether a permanent residence or a second home, it usually starts with a vacation. That’s how many have found the Hamptons after all, right? So why not revisit what made you fall in love with the East End and escape with a little staycation. Luckily, several Hamptons hotels exemplify the guest experience and offer more than simple accommodations. Here are our picks for vacationing in your town.

Aptly nicknamed “The End,” Montauk has had swells of change while managing to maintain its history and charm. Take Ruschmeyers for example. Established in 1952, the property changed hands last year and underwent a serious makeover. Built on three acres of woodland adjacent to Fort Pond, it has become the ultimate summer camp for adults.

“We like to play to the vibe that it’s always one big dinner party at Ruschmeyers for adults who grew up loving to go to summer camp,” says Maître D’ Melody Thomas. “Bring your crew, make new friends, and enjoy cocktails with local fare at our communal tables. You’re under these magical fairy lights adjacent to a bonfire while listening to curated tunes you can sing along to with everyone else around you. Plus, there’s cornhole, oversized Jenga, and ping-pong tables you can bond with others over. It doesn’t get more camp-y than that.”

Guests can sip specialty cocktails and dine on fresh bites made from local and organic ingredients. Play games, make s’mores, or relax in hammocks on the central lawn. You can also cruise through the grounds on complimentary bikes. If you’re itching to get into Montauk’s downtown, it’s less than one mile away.

The old whaling village of Sag Harbor is an experience in itself with a bustling main street lined with restaurants, bars, shopping, and historical buildings and museums. Offering the full Hamptons experience on one property is Baron’s Cove. Overlooking Sag Harbor Cove, the resort features lavish accommodations, multiple dining options, and an array of wellness activities, all with a view. Guests can enjoy yoga on the lawn, borrow a bike to explore the village, or hitch a ride on the summer shuttle to a nearby beach. If you prefer to stay on the property – and we wouldn’t fault you – lounge in an oversized gray and white striped sun tent on the poolside lawn. Cool off in the saltwater pool and sip a refreshing cocktail while soaking up the sun rays.

“Baron’s Cove’s new resort concierge can help plan your staycation with a variety of local and on-property offerings year-round,” says Matt Wheeler, General Manager of Baron’s Cove. “Everything you need for a quick trip is here at the hotel or in walking distance. From beach service and transportation, fitness classes, winery offerings, local shopping, and seasonal dining, Baron’s Cove can accommodate a variety of local experiences for an authentic Hamptons vacation. Plus, there’s no better escape in Sag Harbor to enjoy panoramic views of the harbor for a relaxing getaway and peaceful dining experience.”

Another hotspot in close proximity to a walking village is Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton. Bordered by lush green hedges, the hotel and restaurant is secluded yet close to other dining options and shopping. Utilizing ingredients grown on their one-acre farm and others sourced from local fishermen and farmers, Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House epitomizes farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the contemporary and comfortable dining room or have a casual meal outdoors at the communal table. Treat yourself to a day of wellness at the spa or yoga classes. If you are eager to explore, it’s a short walk to the main part of town.

Each of these places make for the ideal long weekend vacation. Stay and play on the property and explore the downtown areas of these favorite Hamptons villages. Ready to book your staycation?