Our week in {THE HAMPTONS}:

Coastal charm meets modern luxury at Journey East Hampton, a quintessential Hamptons retreat. This stylishly updated motel has a laid-back, beachy vibe, with green gardens framing the clean, minimalist exterior. Whilst it has the bones of an old-school motel, the service, style and proximity to the beach means that prices are un-motel like, especially in the garden cabins we stayed in!

The interiors blend beachy nostalgia and contemporary cool, with whitewashed wood, sleek modern furniture, and cozy textiles fill the rooms and cabins.

The pool, a real asset in the Hamptons, which is more of a beach place. The grounds are immaculately maintained, with lush, leafy plants that lend a serene vibe to the property. At night, fire pits and fairy lights create outdoor areas for a cosy hangout.

There’s no better way to explore the Hamptons than by bike, and Amagansett’s simple but stunning beach is just a short ride away. We pedalled down quiet roads lined with hedges behind which hide substantial summer homes with price tags that will make you eyes pop!

Set within 16 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, LongHouse Reserve is an outdoor art haven that offered a tranquil escape from the bustle of the villages. The sculptures scattered throughout the grounds, from contemporary installations to timeless pieces, made for an inspiring afternoon. The art is beautifully integrated with the natural surroundings and the entire space feels like a secret oasis.

Sag Harbor is a quaint seaside town that’s perfect for a day trip. We loved exploring the boutiques along Madison Street, with Matriark standing out for its eco-conscious fashion and Bloom for its curated selection of home goods. After a leisurely afternoon of shopping, a walked down to the Waterfront Marina for views across to Newhaven.

Amagansett Square is a charming collection of boutiques nestled around a village green. We enjoyed browsing at Henry Lehr, with laid-back luxe clothing perfect for a Hamptons wardrobe. French Presse caught our eye with its selection of beautifully curated bedding, ideal for bringing a piece of Hamptons chic back home.

East Hampton is where the Hamptons’ glamorous reputation truly shines. Which other seaside village boast a multi-level Cartier boutique or a Chanel pop-up tucked away in a historic building!

Amber Waves Farm offers a different kind of retail therapy. It is a farm-to-table market where you can stock up on fresh produce, artisanal goods and locally crafted items. We stopped here for lunch after a leisurely morning bike ride, enjoying farm-fresh sandwiches and wholesome salads.

For a caffeine fix, Jack’s Stir Brew Coffee in Amagansett Square was a lovely laid-back spot, with an outdoor terrace and garden.

For something a little more elevated, Carissa’s The Bakery is where the locals go for a stylish start to the day. With its artisanal bread, delicious pastries and achingly cool vibe, this light-filled space felt like the perfect embodiment of Hamptons cool.

Images: https://www.carissasthebakery.com

East Hampton Grill offered classic American fare with a sophisticated Hamptons twist, combining casual dining and refined elegance. Soft lighting, rich wood interiors and intimate booths create an inviting, cozy ambiance that is an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or an elegant night out with friends. The place was busy and buzzing on the night we visited. As with all dining establishments in the summer months, book ahead to be sure of a place.

Nick & Toni’s is a Hamptons institution, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and warm, rustic ambiance. The wood-fired pizza and locally sourced ingredients and the buzzing atmosphere make it a place to see and be seen.

Images: https://www.nickandtonis.com

We drove further east to spend an afternoon and evening in Montauk, more relaxed and laid-back surf town. We had dinner at South Edison, which offers a modern twist on coastal cuisine and beachy-chic décor.

For an Italian escape, Tutto il Giorno in Sag Harbor has a beautiful terrace for alfresco dining and a menu of refined Italian dishes, from fresh pasta to seafood. The setting is romantic yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot for a lazy summer lunch or evening under the stars.

For sundowners with a view, Crows Nest in Montauk was a great spot, located right on the beach. There is also outdoor dining on the terrace and in the gardens in the summer months, though you need to be prepared to wait to get a table

The Hamptons is where chic coastal living meets small-town charm, where you can hang out at the beach, shop in beautiful boutiques and dine at a top-class restaurant, all in one day. We loved the blend of sophistication and laid-back, seaside vibes. But it’s not a place to visit if you’re looking for a beach holiday on a budget or for a place which is quiet and secluded!