What's the best time to visit the Hamptons?
The best time to visit the Hamptons is in the summer, from late May to early September, when the weather is warm with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. This is the perfect season for enjoying the beautiful beaches, swimming, sunbathing, and participating in water sports.
While summer in the Hamptons is vibrant with social events and a lively atmosphere, it’s be sure to book ahead and plan for traffic congestion.
Long considered a destination for the extra rich, The Hamptons managed to shed their luxury-only reputation to become some of the most popular US getaway locations, drawing in different types of travelers.
Whether your goal is to learn how to surf, enjoy fresh seafood, visit local wineries, or simply gaze at sunsets each afternoon, this destination has your back.
And if you wish to learn about the best time to visit The Hamptons, together with when to avoid thick crowds and high prices, we are the ones to have your back. Let’s dive in!
The Overall Best Time to Visit the Hamptons
James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
The best time to visit the Hamptons is during the summer, specifically from late May to early September. Summer in the Hamptons offers the quintessential beach experience.
The weather is warm and inviting, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This period is perfect for enjoying the Hamptons’ beautiful beaches, such as Southampton and East Hampton, where you can swim, sunbathe, and take part in various water sports.
The summer also brings a multitude of events and social gatherings, from art exhibitions and music festivals to outdoor markets and charity fundraisers.
The Hamptons’ vibrant social scene and bustling nightlife make it a hub for celebrities and vacationers seeking an upscale and entertaining getaway.
While summer is undoubtedly the peak season in the Hamptons, it’s essential to plan well in advance as accommodation prices can be high, and availability may be limited. Additionally, traffic congestion is common during weekends and holiday periods, so it’s advisable to plan travel accordingly.
But if you’re looking to experience the glamour, natural beauty, and vibrant social life of the Hamptons, the summer months provide the best opportunity to do so.
Some notable summer events include the yearly Clothesline Art Sale taking place at Guild Hall, filling the walls with paintings and local artists’ prints. Hamptons’ June Pride is all about honoring the LGBT community, while Polo Hamptons events are also in full swing.
Cheapest Time to Visit the Hamptons
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Discussing the cheapest time to visit such a luxurious location may be illogical to many, but not to us, as we always try to provide versatile options for travelers of various budget categories.
Namely, the Hamptons are the most affordable in late November. This makes sense, as November is a shoulder month, and fall crowds tend to stick in winter visitors are yet to head there.
Plus, it’s the perfect destination to spend your Thanksgiving. This month has temperatures between a maximum of 53°F and a minimum of 36°F.
Least Busy Time to Visit the Hamptons
East Hampton, NY, USA March 6, The boutiques and shops of Main Street in East Hampton, normally bustling during the summer months, are eerily quiet in winter/James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
The least busy time to visit The Hamptons is in September or October. The summer crowds dwindle noticeably, the temperatures become much more pleasant, and the entire area is emptier than usual, allowing visitors to enjoy the Hamptons in peace and quiet.
The season is perfect for wine lovers. Just pick a winery and sample your way through The Hamptons.
Our favorite vineyards are Channing Daughters Winery, DuckWalk Vineyards, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, and Palmer Vineyards, to name a few. To take your wine-tasting experience to the next level, consider attending Wölffer Estate’s yearly Harvest Party.
The Westhampton Beach Festival of the Arts is also quite a treat, transforming the Great Lawn into an outdoor gallery and displaying what local craftspeople have to show.
Then, there’s the yearly Hamptons International Film Festival, where you can enjoy some time with fellow film buffs.
The Hamptons’ Halloween celebration can’t go unnoticed if you’re on a family trip — visit Hank’s Pumpkintown and enjoy a day full of activities ranging from apple-picking and playground time to corn maze and candy apples.
Beer lovers probably keep track of October’s Oktoberfest festivities; while the Hamptons can’t surpass Germany in any way (few places can), you can sample German craft beer and authentic food options.
Fall visitors should expect average temperatures between 73°F and 45°F.
Worst Time to Visit the Hamptons
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Weather-wise, the worst time to visit The Hamptons is in winter (December–March). Or is it?
The beaches are as empty as they get, the temperatures take a nosedive, and although the Hamptoms’ metabolism may come to a halt in winter compared to summer, there’s still plenty you can do if you decide to visit.
Be it ice skating in Southampton or indoor swimming in one of the hotel pools accompanied by a spa day, the Hamptons can definitely surprise those willing to endure its winter climate. Also, stores frequently offer out-of-season discounts.
A little-known Hamptons winter fact is that you can take surfing lessons at this time of the year. Surf Co. works year-round, led by Kurt Rist, a professional surfer, and his team.
Offering both private and group surfing classes, it’s the perfect opportunity to hit the waves without dealing with summer crowds. Even if it’s chilly, there’s nothing a thick wetsuit can’t help with.
The verdict? Yes, the Hamptons definitely lack the summer glow and divine vibe together with the shoulder months’ pleasant climate, but that doesn’t make the place any less magnetic.
If anything, winter is another level of beauty in the Hamptons, ready to be explored by those willing to travel in the off-season and make the most out of their cold stay. These winter months have temperatures varying between highs of 46°F and lows of 23°F.
The Hamptons by Month: Climate & Activities
South Hampton, NY, USA June 20, A Farmers Produce Stand, sells an abundance of fruit and vegetables, all locally grown, in South Hampton, New York/James Kitkikis/Shutterstock
Still unsure about the best time to visit the Hamptons? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:
January
In January, the Hamptons offer a tranquil retreat from the city’s busyness. Temperatures can dip to 25°F (-4°C), making it a quiet time for cozy weekends in charming bed-and-breakfasts, wine tastings at local wineries, and exploring art galleries with fewer tourists.
February
February continues with cool temperatures around 30°F (-1°C). It’s a month for intimate experiences, such as Valentine’s Day dinners at renowned Hamptons restaurants, visits to historic lighthouses, and leisurely walks on serene beaches.
March
As spring begins, temperatures range from 32 to 46°F (0 to 8°C). March is ideal for early spring hikes in nature preserves, cultural events, and enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries.
April
April welcomes spring with temperatures ranging from 40 to 56°F (4 to 13°C). Witness cherry blossoms in bloom, explore art studios during open studio weekends, and embrace the awakening of charming villages.
May
May brings milder temperatures, from 49 to 64°F (9 to 18°C). Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking in peaceful bays, attending the Hampton Classic Horse Show, and dining al fresco at beachfront restaurants.
June
Summer arrives in June with temperatures between 57 to 73°F (14 to 23°C). It’s a time for beach days, garden tours with stunning landscapes, and live music performances.
July
July maintains warm temperatures from 63 to 80°F (17 to 27°C). Popular activities include sunbathing on pristine beaches, attending art and music festivals, and savoring farm-to-table cuisine at local farm stands.
August
August continues the summer season with temperatures ranging from 65 to 81°F (18 to 27°C). Explore historic estates like the Vanderbilt Museum, enjoy watersports, and attend the Hamptons International Film Festival’s SummerDocs series.
September
As fall begins, temperatures range from 58 to 73°F (14 to 23°C). September offers a pleasant transition, with opportunities for apple picking, exploring the Montauk Lighthouse, and attending wine tastings at local vineyards.
October
October sees temperatures ranging from 48 to 63°F (9 to 17°C). It’s a great month for enjoying fall foliage in nature reserves, attending harvest festivals, and taking scenic drives along the coast.
November
Fall temperatures range from 41 to 53°F (5 to 12°C). November is ideal for visiting historic sites like Sag Harbor’s Whaling Museum, enjoying Thanksgiving dinners at local restaurants, and experiencing the quiet beauty of the off-season.
December
December brings winter to the Hamptons, with temperatures ranging from 33 to 46°F (1 to 8°C). Enjoy holiday festivities, shop for unique gifts in charming boutiques, and cozy up in elegant inns for a festive getaway.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit the Hamptons?
SOUTHAMPTON, NY – JULY 13, 2013: Intersection at Main Street in Southampton, NY. Southampton is an upscale village in The Hamptons on Long Island/Littlenystock/Shutterstock
| 👍 Best Time to Visit | June-August |
| 💲 Cheapest Time to Visit | November |
| 🗓️ Least Busy Time to Visit | September-October |
| 👎 Worst Time to Visit | December-March |
The Hamptons are so majestic that it’s almost impossible to talk about a bad time to visit them, let alone a “worst”. What’s more, there still so much to be done and seen that chances are even if you go in winter, you’ll enjoy it.
Be it the stunning beaches, the plethora of activities you can engage in, or the small-town vibe surrounding the area, the Hamptons will make you fall in love with the entire region in no time.
So what are you waiting for? Begin planning your getaway today!