The Great Escape: The Haute 5 Weekend Getaways for Manhattanites

Martha’s Vineyard

The largest island in New England has 124.6 miles of tidal shoreline,  thousands of acres of wildlife preserves and miles of trails for running, biking, golfing, tennis and windsurfing. Simply a perfect Memorial Weekend getaway.

Those for an eye for luxury will find a comforting home base at the Relais & Châteaux’s property Charlotte Inn (room 21 recommended) or Hob Knob, which offers afternoon tea and homemade chocolate-chip pecan-cinnamon cookies. As for activities, enjoy a bike ride through the vineyards, a round of golf at Mink Meadows Golf Club or visit one of Martha Vineyard’s five historic lighthouses. For picture perfect memories, Aquinnah Public Beach, also known as Moshup Beach, is located under the dramatic Aquinnah cliffs offers one of the most photogenic spots on the Island.

Nantucket

Nantucket, the only place that’s a town, county and an island so for your Memorial weekend getaway enjoy the luxury pleasures of all three. Stay at Wauwinet, a perfect waterfront Inn that offers a Har Tru Tennis Court and afternoon port and cheese in the inn’s library.

For a true Memorial Weekend Kodak memory, take the conveniently scheduled van from Wauwinet to Nantucket Town for supplies. Don’t forget fresh sandwiches from Straight Wharf Fish Store, world famous Nantucket chocolate covered cranberries from Aunt’s Leah’s, and throws from Nantucket Looms. Pack in the front of your Nantucket style basket on bikes from Young’s and head to Madaket for a sunset picnic you will never forget.

Hamptons

If you haven’t already rented a summer share or own an abode in the Hamptons, a home away from home for Manhattanites, we have a few perfect solutions. The Reform Club in Amagansett, offers dreamy luxury amenities. Neighbors include Gwyneth Paltrow, Paul McCartney and Jerry Seingeld. Choose from seven unique suites or three cottages. The Mill House Inn, in East Hampton, is dog friendly and highly rated year after year.

As for the party scene, none other than The Day and Night Beach Party at the East Hampton Point Marina & Yacht club. The only waterfront brunch spot where you can park your 150-ft yacht. It’s sunset view are unrivaled and will be the ultimate Memorial Weekend Party.

The North Fork

For a romantic getaway for two, B&B it at the North Fork, aka the “other Hampton.” While it’s too early to swim, spend a wonderful afternoon touring wine vineyards, sprawling landscapes, serene vistas, and beautiful Chateaus.

Sampling the finest wines on what could be considered the Napa Valley of the East Coast.  Definite stops include Bedell Cellars, Pulgiese Vineyards, and Croteaux Rose Vineyard (the only vineyard in the USA dedicated to Rose tasting).

Cape May

An old Victorian Village, great restaurants, and not what people consider the ‘typical’ jersey shore scene, Cape May is reminiscent of a quaint New England Town with architecture that might make you think you are in Charleston, South Carolina.

Stay at the Southern Mansion. It’s a lavish estate, circa 1860, that has been restored to boutique hotel and inn. Only a five minute walk to the beach, shops and restaurants. Relax at an outdoor cafe such and enjoy dining at local restaurants specializing in dayboat fresh fish.

**Lead Photo is Hob Knob, Martha’s Vineyard**