One part of New York State is particularly alluring to those seeking the perfect summer getaway. It's not Upstate with its lush forests and mountain views, and it's not the city with its contagious energy. It's the Hamptons, and they're also one of the only things that the small fish-shaped island of Long Island is known for.
When it comes to planning a vacation to the Hamptons, it can be an overwhelming task with a total of 11 towns to choose from, each one differing drastically from the other. One from local from another who might be trying to be one temporarily, here's how to navigate each major town... and which to skip.
Those Which Are Affordable... Ish
Contrary to popular belief, not every Hamptons town has outpriced itself in the running for budget-friendly vacations. While they still err on the high-end of 'budget-friendly,' these are the towns in which you can probably get away with paying $150 per night rather than $300.
Westhampton
The 'Hamptons' technically - geographically - begin with Westhampton. On the map, this comes before the split that divides the North and South Forks. Although it's the furthest from the East End, it's not actually the cheapest Hamptons town - but it is a great place for younger crowds looking for a taste of what true Hamptons life can be like.
- Average hotel: $190-$220
- Average Airbnb: $250-$800
Quogue
Quogue follows Westhampton and makes up the space between that and Hampton Bays. This is a nature lovers haven, complete with plenty of marshland and bayside parks to navigate while visitors take advantage of its semi-remote, Shinnecock Bay landscape. Anyone itching to get up-close and personal with the famed Pine Barrens, look no further. Watch for ticks.
- Average hotel: $125-$300
- Average Airbnb: $140-$300
Hampton Bays
There are some locals who will say that Hampton Bays doesn't really count as a Hamptons town but that's not true - it's just the only affordable Hamptons town. With that being said, this is the best bet for those on a budget, and they'll be happy to find that even the food costs are much lower here than a restaurant in, say, East Hampton. You might sacrifice ocean beaches for those along the Shinnecock Bay, but it's worth it to avoid dropping $350 for dinner, right?
- Average hotel: $125-$220
- Average Airbnb: $65-$325
Southampton: THE Hamptons Town
This is the one most people have been waiting for, complete with Cooper's Beach, the place to get your day-drink on and soak up the rays while enjoying pristine oceanside views... and it all comes at a price. With that being said, Airbnb is undoubtedly the best choice for those looking to shop in the village and eat lobster dishes while watching the sunrise. Plus, a cozy cottage will feel so much better than a hotel after dealing with the three hours of traffic it took to get past Hampton Bays.
- Average hotel: $320-$700
- Average Airbnb: $200-$900
The Ones That Got Stuck In The Middle
Bridgehampton
More traffic will take visitors to Bridgehampton, the quiet Hamptons town that sits inland but doesn't offer any reprieve from lodging prices because of it. Rather, the prices go up, as it sits just before the most expensive part of Long Island's East End. However, it is home to many artists, making it somewhat of a hub when it comes to all things creative. This also drives the price up. The small shops and boutiques, along with extensive art galleries, make this town worth it.
- Average hotel: $300-$775
- Average Airbnb: All over the grid depending on the accommodation, $150-$1,200
Sagaponack
Deep in Bridgehampton, the hamlet of Sagaponack can be found. It's known for its farms, its status, and the tremendous amount of wealth that goes into keeping it that way. When it comes to vacations, it's best to book something in the surrounding area. Airbnb is the only logical choice but be prepared to pay through the nose.
- Average Airbnb: Anywhere from $350-$700
Wainscott
See above. So similar to Sagaponack that no explanation is necessary, but the historic Tudor-style homes are absolutely breathtaking. It's just too bad that the cost to rent one is astronomical.
Sag Harbor: The Odd One Out
Sag Harbor is beautiful and picturesque, and exactly what one would expect from a historic harbourside town. It's reminiscent of Cape Cod, with divine seafood restaurants and views to match. However, the cost to stay there often makes it unattainable - and, unfortunately, there aren't many towns surrounding to book for cheaper. For anyone who can fit this into their budget, it's worth it for this town that's absolutely dripping in history and seaside charm.
- Average hotel: $600-$1,800
- Average Airbnb: $280-$500
Quietly Outpricing The Rest
East Hampton
If dropping $400 (minimum) on a hotel is within the budget then there's no better place to do it than East Hampton. This quiet Hamptons town exudes luxury but errs on the quiet, sleepier side, with plenty to see and do. Its beaches are classic Long Island with dunes that tower on either side of its beachside roads, it's a haven for foodies with gourmet markets and boutique shops awaiting eager customers, and, in short, it's beautiful. Plus, you might get to see Ina Garten.
- Average hotel: $400-$500
- Average Airbnb: $230-$775
Amagansett
Amagansett is a very quiet town and its residents enjoy it that way. It's beautiful and semi-secluded which makes for a perfect beachside vacation. However, it's also quite small and, at the time of writing, there is only a handful of Airbnbs available.
- Average Airbnb: $275-$1,200
Montauk: The End
Quite literally, Montauk is the end of Long Island with the exception of having a sea-worthy vessel in which to navigate its cliffsides. Upon first glance, it might not appear that there's much here but that's not the case. The historic Montauk Lighthouse, Gossman's Dock featuring classic seafood and shopping, and a handful of bars and clubs line Montauk Highway. In terms of price, it can be affordable if you book a hotel that's inland or find a small rental cottage. It's even more affordable during the off-season.
- Average hotel: $400-$700
- Average Airbnb: $140-$450