The 14 Best Beaches in the Hamptons

• 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.

• Location: Amagansett
• Parking: $50 per day on weekdays, $600 seasonal weekend pass for non-residents
• 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: Bridgehampton
• Parking: $30 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.

• 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.

• 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: 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.

• 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: $50 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.

• Location: Westhampton Beach
• Parking: Parking here is difficult—drive down Dune Road in Westhampton Beach and try to find a spot, or park at Cupsogue Beach County Park with a recreational parking license.
• 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.

Note: Dune Road Beach does not have its own website. Contact Suffolk County Parks for more information.

• 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.

• Location: Fire Island
• Parking: $15 Mon-Thurs and $25 Fri-Sun at Fire Island Ferry Terminals, or pay $10 to park in Field 5 at Robert Moses State Park and walk.
• Why We Recommend It: accessible by foot and by ferry, low-key Fire Island escape, family-friendly

OK, not the Hamptons, but we're still on Long Island folks, and this is one of the island's quieter and most pristine beaches—ideal for families and couples who enjoy plenty of room to spread out and a more low-key scene (i.e., away from Fire Island party crowds). It also boasts picturesque views of the Fire Island lighthouse and gentle ocean waves. It’s worth noting that, due to its location at the far western edge of Fire Island, it is accessible by foot from Robert Moses State Park for folks who prefer not to ride the ferry. Family-friendly amenities, including a playground and tennis courts are nearby, and the beach is also home to two popular bayside bars and grills, The Inn and Surf’s Out.