Your beach bag is packed, you’ve slipped into your stylish swimsuit and are ready to get your fill of sun, sand and surf. And though the Hamptons has no shortage of beaches, some are better suited for various activities. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape, a place to see and be seen, a beach with nearby hiking trails or simply a patch of sand near plenty of amenities, there’s a Hamptons beach for you.
The 13 Best Beaches in the Hamptons (Plus, What’s Special About Each One)
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Published Jul 24, 2024
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1. Cooper’s Beach
- Location: Southampton
- Parking: $50 per day
- Why We Recommend It: has lots of concession stands, well-kept bathrooms with freshwater showers, chair and umbrella rentals
White sand, high dunes, rolling waves—when you picture Hamptons beaches, chances are you’re thinking of Cooper’s Beach in Southampton. This is quintessential Hamptons and a must-visit for anyone new to the area or returning for a much-needed break Out East.
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- Location: Amagansett
- Parking: $50 per day on weekdays, TK on weekends
- Why We Recommend It: easily accessible (it’s one of the few Hamptons beaches you can walk to from the train), has concession stands and restrooms
Yes, you will probably run into your ex-partner’s college roommate and maybe that guy you saw picking up a loaf of salty soured pickled rye at Carrissa’s, but that’s what makes this hot spot so fun. A 20-minute walk from the Amagansett train, Atlantic Avenue Beach is known for its young (and slightly rowdier) crowd. Go ahead and enjoy the people watching.
- Location: Montauk
- Parking: $10 per day
- Why We Recommend It: picnic tables, playground, nature trail, concession stand, campground with tent and trailer sites
Dry off after a dip in the ocean with a nearly three-mile trek through the constantly shifting dunes of Hither Hills State Park. Keep an eye out for red-tailed hawks, ospreys and other birds of prey, then settle in for the night at the scenic and well-maintained campground. (S’mores mandatory.)
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4. Mecox Beach
- Location: Bridgehampton
- Parking: $25 per car per day
- Why We Recommend It: bathrooms, showers, snack stand, souvenirs, lifeguard
Lifeguard? Check. Snack stand? Check. Bathrooms and showers? Double check. These helpful amenities explain why this golden shore typically has enough screaming kids that no one will blink an eye when yours throws a 30-minute tantrum. OK, Mecox might not exactly be the most relaxing beach but if you’re a parent of young kids looking for a sandy spot to spend the day then this is the beach for you.
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- Location: Montauk
- Parking: $35 for eight hours
- Why We Recommend It: great food options, celeb spotting
Along with the beaches, dining is also a major draw in the Hamptons. You’ll find the best of both at Kirk Park Beach in Montauk. Not only is the laid-back beach located across the street from a 7-Eleven (hello, giant iced coffee), but its parking lot is also next to the IGA supermarket, where you can stock up on snacks before hitting the sand. Plus, you’re within walking distance to Balsam Farms Montauk Market, Joni’s Kitchen, MTK Lobster House and so much more. No wonder celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Jessica Parker own homes in the area.
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6. Ditch Plains
- Location: Montauk
- Parking: free (but you’ll have to find a spot on side streets)
- Why We Recommend It: cool vibes, great restaurants
Arguably the most well-known surf beach on Long Island (and for good reason), Ditch Plains is famous for its long, peeling waves. Note: It can get crowded, particularly on good surfing days, so make sure you get there early.
- Location: Sagaponack
- Parking: By permit only
- Why We Recommend It: dog friendly, uncrowded
Your dog is your best friend, so of course you want to take her to every beach outing. Though dog-friendly beaches are in short supply in the Hamptons, there is Gibson’s Lane Beach. The unofficial dog beach has gotten a bit stricter in recent years: dogs have to be leashed and are only permitted on the beach before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. from May 15 to September 15. Still, it’s the best spot to find locals strolling on the beach with their canine companions (and perhaps even sneaking in a game of fetch). Just keep in mind that parking is by permit only so unless you happen to befriend a local, your best bet is to take an Uber or a Lyft down here.
- Location: East Hampton
- Parking: Town permit required
- Why We Recommend It: tranquil escape, beautiful sands
This gorgeous, relaxed beach on the bay side of East Hampton is the ultimate hideaway. Louse Point Beach is known for its calm waters, minimal crowds and poor cell reception (which makes it an even more relaxing escape if you ask us). Make sure to pick up some snacks on your way to the beach though since you won’t find a snack bar anywhere in sight. And again, you’ll need a parking permit or get dropped off to enjoy these golden sands.
- Location: Wainscott
- Parking: By permit only
- Why we recommend it: quiet, proximity to gyms and Wolffer Estate Stables
A hop, skip, and throw from workout hotspots like Barry’s Bootcamp, and Sag Harbor Gym, Wainscott Beach is ideal for a post workout dip. Go ahead and flaunt all that hard work.
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10. Main Beach
- Location: East Hampton
- Parking: $50 per day
- Why We Recommend It: has bathroom facilities, a snack bar and shaded areas
Main Beach regularly tops lists of the world’s best beaches and for good reason: It’s a sprawling expanse covered in super-fine powdery sand that’s beautiful to behold and feels incredible on your feet. It’s also a crowd-pleasing option for surfers, families and anyone who just wants to have a chill day at the beach. That makes all of us, right?
- Location: Water Mill
- Parking: $40 per day
- Why We Recommend It: has clean facilities and a welcoming atmosphere
Flying Point Beach might be the East End’s scene-iest slice of sand. Expect hipsters on blankets, entitled teenagers and plenty of beautiful people nursing their hangovers.
12. Dune Road Beach
- Location: Westhampton Beach
- Parking: Parking here is difficult—drive down Dune Road in Westhampton Beach and try to find a spot
- Why We Recommend It: uncrowded, beautiful sands, great for surfing
New summer goal: make friends with a Dune Road Westhampton Beach resident. This quiet, beautiful stretch of beach boasts smooth, clean sands and big, gnarly waves. It’s definitely worth schmoozing with a local to sneak your way into this gorgeous spot.
13. Camp Hero Beach
- Location: Montauk
- Parking: $8 per car per day
- Why We Recommend It: great surfing, beautiful sands
How are your cliff-climbing skills? Camp Hero State Park (which has the best name ever, btw) is known for its uncrowded beaches and killer waves. To access this stunning spot, you have to be comfortable with climbing down a cliff though, so it’s best for thrill-seekers and adventurous types.