The Best of the Hamptons

Nothing says summer like spending long, luxurious weekends in the Hamptons! Whether you plan on dining under the stars or dancing until dawn, Haute Living has rounded up the top restaurants, nightlife, workouts and beaches in Long Island’s haute seaside playground.

BEST BEACH
Gibson Beach
Gibson Lane
Sagaponack, NY 11962

For those who prefer St. Tropez to Seaside Heights, head to Gibson Beach in Sagaponack. Brimming with socialites and supermodels, it’s the place to soak up the rays. And just like its French counterpart, bathing suit tops aren’t required at this private oasis.

BEST DATE SPOT
The Crow’s Nest Inn & Restaurant
4 Old W Lake Dr
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-2077

Whether you are looking for the perfect first date spot or celebrating an anniversary, The Crow’s Nest Inn & Restaurant is sure to set the mood for romance. Feast on grilled octopus and spring artichoke risotto in the main dining area, or sip champagne cocktails on the grassy lawn adorned with twinkling lights, tiki torches, and fire pits. Roast marshmallows or simply gaze at the stars. Either way, there’s bound to be sparks flying.

BEST SEAFOOD
Almond Restaurant
1 Ocean Road
Bridgehampton, NY 11932
(631) 537-5665

Located in a historic space with 100-year-old tin ceilings, a hand-carved bar, and classic white subway tile, Almond doesn’t look like the typical Hamptons restaurant—and that’s a good thing. Delectable dishes like curried mussels, charred squid and shaved fennel, and crispy fish and crisps make this neighborhood eatery our top choice for succulent seafood. Be sure to save room for the sticky toffee date cake with crème fraiche ice cream.

BEST BRUNCH
Estia’s Little Kitchen
1615 Bridgehampton
Sag Harbor Turnpike
Sag Harbor, NY 11963
(631) 725-1045

Expect long lines at this teeny-tiny brunch spot, but Chef Colin Ambrose’s Mexican-inspired fare (and homemade hot sauce) is so scrumptious that it’s well worth the wait. Choose from a selection of savory omelets, sweet pancakes and spicy fish tacos, and don’t leave without sampling the strawberry lemonade.

BEST STEAKHOUSE
Palm Restaurant
94 Main Street
East Hampton, NY 11937
(631) 324-0411

Palm Restaurant at the Huntting Inn offers steakhouse favorites in a classic, chic atmosphere. Cozy up at one of the wood-paneled booths for a leisurely dinner or snag a seat at the bar for a quick bite in between rounds of golf. Menu highlights include filet mignon, double cut lamb rib chops, and for dessert, New York style cheesecake with raspberry sauce.

BEST LOUNGE
Sienna Restaurant & Ultralounge
44 Three Mile Harbor Road
East Hampton, New York 11937

Every weekend, the dining room of Sienna Restaurant transforms into a high-energy ultralouge with VIP bottle service, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, an outdoor terrace and a revolving lineup of DJs including Bambi, Starkillers and Chainsmokers. To keep the party going all night long, be sure to try the famous Sienna margarita: a no-sugar added cocktail made from top-shelf tequila, Grand Marnier, and a blend of fruit juices.

BEST WORKOUT
Barry’s Bootcamp
352 Montauk Highway
Wainscott, NY 11975
(631) 537-2668

Don an itty-bitty bikini with confidence thanks to high-intensity circuit training that burns 1,000 calories in a single workout. Fifty minutes go by in the blink of an eye when paired with cardio spurts, weight lifting, and strengthening exercises to the pulse of fast-paced music and nightclub lighting. To spice things up, Barry’s Bootcamp plans to rotate in some of the best trainers from around the country all summer long.

BEST NIGHTCLUB
SL East
44 Three Mile Harbor Rd
East Hampton, NY 11937
(212) 627-1235

Featuring a massive VIP lounge and patio terrace, SL East boasts the top-tier service and celebrity clientele that its NYC counterpart, SL, is best known for. With plush banquette seating, ornate lighting, and a killer sound system, it’s the hottest spot to enjoy live appearances and performances by world-renowned DJs. The expansive outdoor patio features four private cabanas with daybeds, perfect for celebrating under the stars.