Indy Scene: Beaches, Hotels & Moments

It is shaping up to be quite the uncharacteristic Hamptons Summer season this 2020, which few, if any would have forecast. As we eventually emerge into the brilliant sunlight of phase 4 the temptations are going to likely include a desire to get outdoors on the beach, create some new memories at quintessential Hamptons experiences and to stay in a hotel.

HOTELS FOR STAYCATIONING

With the world starting to spin again, the Southampton Inn continues to fluff your pillows atop high-quality linens in one of the premium and comfortably furnished guestrooms. The adopting of Ultra Violet lights as part of the cleaning protocol for the rooms underpins the Inn’s commitment to guest wellbeing. The restaurant, Claude’s, is serving the All-American picnic. Access to Coopers Beach is provided by a complimentary shuttle for guests. Plenty of outdoor space amidst the grounds of the Inn display the Southampton Inn’s reputation as a warm and welcoming haven. www.southamptoninn.com

The luxurious 17^th Century English-inspired Inn, The Baker House 1650 in East Hampton offers relaxing and comfortable amenities all year round. The incomparable inn has gorgeous grounds and stunning common areas, an opulent on-site spa, and fresh and lavish homemade daily breakfasts. Owned and operated by celebrated East Hampton entrepreneur Antonella Bertello. www.bakerhouse1650.com

New boutique hotel experience named for a fish which was critical to the growth of agriculture, The Menhaden Hotel in Greenport on the North Fork is well situated by the water and completely modern. Boasting a rooftop deck with views of the town and surrounds, the Menhaden also plays host to New York Upper East Side French Bistro cuisine from Demarchelier at the Menhaden. www.themenhaden.com

SEEKING THE QUINTESSENTIAL MOMENTS

Watch an afternoon go by whilst enjoying a glass of wine amidst the Vineyards of the iconic Wölffer Estate is undoubtably a classic Hamptons moment. This year, the Estate currently requires reservations, Wolffer’s Summer in a Bottle 2019 is a wine which aims to capture the spirit and style of the Hamptons in a bottle. A blend of some six grape varietals, the wine has A fresh, vivacious wine with beautiful floral notes with ripe peach and lychee, similar to a field of freshly cut flowers. www.wolffer.com

Drive to the end of Long Island and visit the Montauk Lighthouse commissioned during the Presidency of George Washington. Although only the grounds are open at the time of writing it remains a great place to come and watch the Atlantic Ocean interact with Long Island Sound, watch the beachcombers and fisherman and take in that fresh air. www.montauklighthouse.com

Why not go and search for a small piece of history to take home after the summer and go antiquing this weekend? Try Laurin Copen Antiques in Bridgehampton www.laurincopenantiques.com or the Antiques Center Southampton on County Road 39 www.antiquescentersouthampton.com

BEACHES FOR STROLLING

Consistently rated amongst the top beaches in America, visitors to Coopers Beach, Southampton can enjoy the sand, fresh air and beautiful backdrop of the famous mansions amidst the landscape. Coopers Beach is frequently listed as one of Top Ten Best Beaches in the United States.

An Amagansett favorite, Atlantic Avenue Beach offers lifeguards and although known for a concession stand that among its provisions include fried clams, lobster rolls, and chicken tenders, it is also the beach to play out secret agent games as it was the drop off point for German spies in the Second World War who were sent from submarine to New York City – only the FBI were able to foil their schemes.

In East Hampton there’s Two Mile Hollow. Parking fees are relatively cheap at $30 – however this season only residents can access the forty parking spaces total you need to make an early start to secure a coveted spot.