A Local’s Guide to Southampton

Southampton is worth the trip in every season. Don’t leave before picking up some cookies at Tate’s.

Settled in 1640, Southampton Village is one of the oldest English settlements in the state. With its beautifully picturesque town and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder that it is a year-long destination for tourists and celebrities alike. Oh, and I should mention, the food is pretty good too! Here’s how to make the most of your time there.

To Stay

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The 1708 House

The 1708 House is an historic Southampton bed and breakfast that was extensively restored in 1993. All accommodations have a private bath and AC because, this is a vacation after all. It’s centrally located in Southampton Village making it perfect for guests to settle into the local life with close proximity to unique shops and delicious food and the beach!

A Butler’s Manor

A Butler’s Manor was originally built in 1860 as the home to one of the early settlers of Southampton (William Jagger), this luxury B&B designated as a New York State historic property. It’s conveniently nestled just one-half mile from Southampton Village making it easily accessible to restaurants and shopping in the heart of the village.

To Do

Parrish Art Museum

Get your culture on at the Parrish Art Museum which opened in the Fall of 2012. Occupying 34,400 square-feet and situated on fourteen acres, the Herzog & de Mueron-designed building integrates the natural landscape with architectural design making the museum itself a stunning work of art as it honors the exceptional beauty of Long Island’s East End.

Hildreth’s Home Goods

Hildreth’s reminds me of an indoor beach minus the sand and water—okay, maybe just a really posh beach house where you can buy stuff! If you’re not in the market for a couch, check out their other goods which include: beach towels, sun moisturizer, bathing suit cover-ups, candles, yarn (alpaca too), and so much more.

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Cooper Beach

If you’re seeking tranquility on white sandy shores—and really, whatever the season, isn’t that the point of this trip?—Cooper’s Beach will not let you down. This beach was included in last year’s Dr. Beach’s (AKA Dr. Stephen Leatherman) Top Ten Picks of the country. It scored #8.

While there is free parking in designated zones along the road, you’re more likely to have to pay the $40 fee and save yourself the hassle and the walk. Amenities include the appropriately named Serenity Beach Café—known for Friday and Saturday Lobster bakes, as well as lifeguards, a bathhouse, and chair & umbrella rentals.

Conscience Point Historic Site and Nature Walk

Open Sunrise to Sunset, this sixty-acre wildlife refuge consists of woodlands, grasslands and salt-marsh. It provides a home to supports endangered and threatened species. Don’t worry—the walking trail is much shorter and covers around five acres. This is also the alleged spot where the founders of Southampton came ashore—there’s even a rock here to commemorate it.

To Eat

The Southampton Publick House

For those of you hoping to take a lazy casual approach to summer weekends, leisurely strolling down main street, The Southampton Publick House offers weekend brunch options. Choose from light fare like vanilla crepes with strawberry cream cheese filling and topped with more fresh strawberries to traditional hearty meals like steak and eggs. Did I mention that the Publick House is also a brewery and tap room?  Feel free to sit back and enjoy an award winning Southampton Farmhouse Ale or seasonal beer.

Silver’s

Every great tourist spot has that renowned restaurant that everyone tells you that you need to try. Well for Southampton, Silver’s is that place and the sandwich to try is the B.L.T. (Wait – you’re sending me to a French Bistro and your recommendation is a B.L.T.? Yes.)

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This kind of afternoon

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Sant Ambroeus

Located on Main Street, Sant Ambroeus offers elegant dining –both indoors, as well as outdoors on their quiet and intimate vine-covered patio. This pasticceria and confetteria marries old world cuisine with modern sophistication. If you happen to be in town on a Thursday and Sunday evening, the restaurant offers a Prix Frixe Dinner which includes an appetizer, a main course, and—get this—any dessert from their menu. You can add a wine pairing for an additional $24 which makes this high-end experience truly affordable.

The Golden Pear 

The Golden Pear Café is the perfect stop to grab some breakfast, with a range of specialty breakfast options (like omelets, waffles and burritos), baked goods and delightful cold and caffeinated drinks including iced coffees and teas.

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