Jump to:
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. Ready to begin planning your getaway in The Hamptons? So are we — let’s dive in!
The Best Time to Visit the Hamptons
James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
The best time to visit the Hamptons is in summer (June–August). It’s when the peak season kicks off with a myriad of festivals, charity events, fairs, and other special happenings.
The sandy beaches entice beachgoers, and the warm weather makes the Hamptons a must-visit destination.
Visitors can engage in plenty of activities, such as sailing, paragliding, surfing, swimming, diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, and so on. You may also embark on a whale-watching cruise, go on a fishing adventure, or jet ski.
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.
Lastly, the Hamptons Jazz Fest adds a sophisticated touch to even the most spontaneous of visits. These months see average temperatures between highs of 81°F and lows of 57°F.
Cheapest Time to Visit The Hamptons
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 said to be 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.
Fal visitors should expect average temperatures between 73°F and 45°F.
Worst Time to Visit the Hamptons
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.
Things to Consider
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
Curious about how to visit the Hamptons on a budget? What other information do you need to be aware of to ensure a hassle-free stay?
Follow along and take notes:
- Hotel prices skyrocket during the tourist season, the peak being at the height of summer. That said, it’s more than common to see these high prices cut in half in shoulder seasons.
- Don’t rely on public transportation — not only is it unreliable, but it’s also non-existent when it comes to reaching certain areas/venues. Your next best options include taxis, Uber, car rentals, and biking. That said, note that taxis get quite expensive, but the good thing is that they’re negotiable — inquire how much the ride will cost beforehand.
- If you’re trying to navigate the Hamptons on a budget, cycling may be advisable, at least to areas reachable by bike. For instance, going to the beach can get pricey if you take the hefty parking fees into account.
- The best way to spend your time is by renting a cottage or a house for a longer period of time — that way, you can truly experience everything the region has to offer. If you’re trying to stay there on a tight budget, check out options, including pitching tents at Hither Hills State Park (we told you heading to The Hamptons doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, didn’t we?). Also, if you’re looking for cheaper hotels, check out the small hamlets, such as North Sea or Noyack.
- Beaches don’t allow off-leash pets during the summer, but they’re more than welcome to engage in some sand game in the fall.
- Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially in the peak season.
- Certain private beaches may require you to obtain a pass to access them.
- Indulge in oysters only in months with the letter “r” — anytime from September through April, as that’s when they’re the best.
Frequently Asked Questions
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
What is the richest part of the Hamptons?
The most expensive part of the Hamptons is said to be south of the highway — the majority of the Estate Section of Southhampton Village, Sagaponack, Water Mill, Bridgehampton, and East Hampton Village.
Do any celebrities live in the Hamptons?
Yes, besides celebrities visiting the Hamptons, there are those who actually reside there: Robert De Niro, Robert Downey Jr., Alec Baldwin, Neil Patrick Harris, Jerry Seinfeld, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jay-Z with Beyonce, and Matthew Broderick with Sarah Jessica Parker.
Who owns the biggest house in the Hamptons?
Owned by Ira Rennert, a junk bond financier, the largest Hamptons house spans across 64,000 sq ft, and the entire floor area is said to be 110,000 sq ft. It’s estimated that the house is worth between $267 million and $500 million.
What are the most popular restaurants in Hamptons?
Here are some of the most popular restaurants in the Hamptons: Jerry & The Mermaid, Saaz, Piazza Village, La Parmigiana Italian Restaurant, Rumba, Harvest on Fort Port, East Hampton Grill, Lobster Roll Restaurant, Cowfish, and Inlet Seafood Restaurant.
Are the Hamptons expensive to visit?
Here are specific figures: you should set aside around $225 per person per day during your stay in the Hamptons. Based on past travelers’ data, you’ll need at least $60 for meals and $60 for local transportation.
If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll get away with $100 per day. Obviously, there’s no cap on how much you can spend, but if you have no budget restrictions, $425 a day will be more than enough for a lavish stay.
Lastly, keep in mind that all these figures are approximations, which means they’ll probably change after a while, so we urge you to always search for the latest budget information before you head to the Hamptons.
Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!
| 👍 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 best time to visit The Hamptons is in the summer (June–August). In summer, The Hamptons are at their best, allowing visitors to relax either by engaging in recreational outdoor activities or working on getting the perfect tan on the beach.
The cheapest time to visit The Hamptons is in late November, so if you’re trying to potentially get the best deals during your stay, this month has you covered.
The least busy time to visit The Hamptons is during the fall, in September or October. While The Hamptons may be emptyish, festival lineups and events’ schedules are full.
And the worst time to head to the Hamptons? Unsurprisingly, it’s in winter (December–March). It’s cold, and winter visitors may find the Hamptons lack summer’s magic.
That said, 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!