What’s in a name? Sometimes it tells you a lot. Originally called Good Ground, Hampton Bays was settled in 1740 in the area where Main Street is now, its name drawing on what settlers deemed superior land from that of the surrounding areas. By 1922, it was combined with 10 of those adjoining communities and christened Hampton Bays.
Although it’s under the radar in comparison to its other Hamptons brethren, the town’s prime locale has long made it a desirable spot for several reasons, starting all the way back to the American Revolution, with the construction of a then-strategically important military fort that adjoined the Canoe Place Inn, affording access to Peconic and Shinnecock bays and the Atlantic Ocean. About 100 years later, when the Long Island Rail Road was introduced in 1869, Hampton Bays became popular with tourists for its lovely seaside climes.
These days, the waterside town is still a hotbed for beachgoers, surfers and sport fishermen. It’s the second-largest commercial fishing port in New York after Montauk and is chockablock with maritime landmarks like the Shinnecock Canal, the Ponquogue Bridge and the Shinnecock Inlet.
Traditionally a working-class, family-oriented community, those in the know enjoy the waterfront restaurants, beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails and old-school businesses that make Hampton Bays a hidden gem.
STAY
The Hampton Maid (259 E. Montauk Highway, 631-728-4166). Known for its legendary breakfasts, this picturesque, old-school hotel has been around since 1959. The 13-acre property faces Shinnecock Bay and R.AIRE, their excellent Spain-centric restaurant that’s open to the public for breakfast and dinner and helmed by
chef Alex Bujoreanu.
Canoe Place Inn & Cottages(239 E. Montauk Highway,
631-763-6300). Completely
renovated in 2023, this luxury inn has 20 well-appointed rooms and five cottages, along with a library, outdoor lounge, heated pool, spa and ballroom. Their restaurant, Good Ground Tavern, is open to the public
and boasts a Mediterranean-style menu.
EAT
Hampton Coffee Company
(31 Shinnecock Road, 631-594-1695). Newly opened in January, this local chain offers hot and iced espresso drinks and coffees, along with bakery items and lunch options, and makes a great stop on your way to or from the beach.
Slo-Jack’s (212 W. Montauk Highway, 631-728-9601). This laidback retro drive-in circa 1960 is famous for its burgers, crinkle-cut fries, Mexican food, fried chicken and lobster rolls. It’s also got a minigolf course out back and ice cream and shakes for dessert.
Cowfish (258 E. Montauk Highway, 631-594-3868) and Rumba (43 Canoe Place Road, 631-594-3544). Owned by Rooted Hospitality Group, this pair of waterfront restaurants is not to be missed in the summer months and each has a distinct personality. Cowfish is famed for its seafood-centric menu and large outdoor bar, while Rumba has a low-key, Caribbean-style vibe with island flavors. In season, there’s a free boat that shuttles customers between the two restaurants, a five-minute ride.
Edgewater (295 E. Montauk Highway, 631-723-2323). A beautiful spot to watch the sun set over Shinnecock Bay while dining on the covered porch, this family-friendly Italian restaurant has reasonable prices and large portions. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch.
Oakland’s Restaurant & Marina (373 Dune Road, 631-728-6900). An upscale restaurant located next to Shinnecock Inlet, this popular eatery has indoor and outdoor seating and views to die for. Appropriately, there’s a seafood-heavy menu. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, but be warned: They do not take reservations.
Gemelli Gelato (139 W. Montauk Highway, 631-594-5600). A standout place to stop for gelato and sorbetto, with flavored waffle cones and tons of toppings. The shaded front lawn is a nice place to hang out or play a game of cornhole.
Also check out: Italian-American spot DeRo’s Food
& Family (149 W. Montauk Highway, 631-594-3379); classic seafood on the water at Sundays on the Bay (369 Dune Road, 631-728-2611); the Beach Bar (58 Foster Ave., 631-723-3100) for drinks and dancing; and the Station Bar (22 Shinnecock Road, 631-728-6116) for pub grub, water views and a great happy hour.
SHOP
Good Ground Antique Center (52 W. Montauk Highway,
631-728-6300). A great place to poke around for timeless treasure, with multiple dealers selling furniture, jewelry and collectibles.
Fandango (48 W. Montauk Highway #A, 631-728-3704). This women’s boutique offers stylish seasonal clothing, as well as the jewelry, scarves, handbags, sunglasses and beach totes to go with.
White Water Outfitters (288 E. Montauk Highway, 631-594-3336). Heading out to catch that big one? This fishing must-stop offers a big selection of fishing tackle and gear, with knowledgeable, helpful staff.
PLAY
Ponquogue Beach (280 Dune Road, 631-728-8585). The pavilion at this spectacular ocean beach at the end of Dune Road was renovated as of 2019 and has restrooms, outdoor showers, a concession stand and beach volleyball courts. Before you go, check the Southampton Town website for parking permit information.
Sears Bellow County Park
(63 Bellows Pond Road, 631-852-8290). A great place to hike among the cooling, shady pines or rent a rowboat on freshwater Bellows Pond. Tent and trailer camping is available, too, with freshwater fishing and horseback riding also permitted.
Regal UA Hampton Bays (119 W. Montauk Highway, 844-462-7342). Who says moviegoing is dead? This old-school movie theater shows a mix of first-run flicks, kids’ films and the occasional classic, with all the crunchy, munchy concessions
to accompany them.
Shinnecock Star Party Boat (365 Dune Road, 631-728-4563). One of several party boats in town, the Shinnecock Star has been fishing the bays and ocean for over 35 years. Half-day trips run from Memorial Day to Labor Day; private charters also available. Call for reservations and to see what fish are running.
