We’re partial: There’s no place we love more than the East End. And we know our readers feel all the same feels! Peruse soundbites from some of our favorite Hamptons personalities on why it’s their favorite place, too.
Nicky Hilton Rothschild
Fashion designer and model
“I love everything about it—the different charming villages, the beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants and architecture, and, of course, the lobster rolls. I would say that fall is my favorite time of year to be in the Hamptons. It’s quiet and cozy—and no traffic!”
Isaac Mizrahi
Fashion designer and singer
“I love Bridgehampton because of its proximity to NYC. I never feel too far away, yet I feel very far away.“
Liz Lange
CEO and creative director of Figue
“East Hampton is my happy place. I have been going there since I was a child, so it feels like home to me. Yes, there’s too much traffic, too many people, and sure, I wish the village still had all the little mom-and-pop shops that used to be there. But it’s so much more than that. It’s the smell of the grass and the hydrangeas as you take long walks on its beautiful roads; it’s the majesty of Georgica Pond and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s our wide beaches, our local farm stands, and the fact that if you don’t want to participate in the social craziness of the summer, you don’t have to. Simply put, it’s the best.”
Julie Macklowe
Entrepreneur
“Good parties, good friends, and some good Macklowe Whiskey! Summertime at its finest.”
Steve Madden
Founder, creative and design chief of Steve Madden
“It’s like an adult summer camp in a way. I love playing golf. I love going to the gym and having a quick bite with friends. I enjoy Citarella in Bridgehampton. My kids also love it, so that rules everything.”
Charly Sturm
SVP Brand Development, Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics
‘’I love to go for lunch with friends at Sunset Beach hotel – they have the most amazing seafood. And I always make time for a long walk on the beach, enjoying the fresh, sea air or some shopping for cute homeware pieces at Clic in East Hampton.’’ Dr. Barbara Sturm
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Founder, Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics
‘’I like to take a boat to go to Duryea’s and have lunch with friends or go wake boarding in Sag Harbor. Or just a long walk on the beach in the morning watching the whales. It’s so special there.’’Kit Keenan
Influencer
“Montauk has changed a lot since my family started visiting in the 90s, but for me, the magic remains. Whether it’s enjoying a secret hike with my little sister, surfing with friends and family, cooking at home, or hitting the town, you can always meet me in Montauk!”
Danielle Carolan
Influencer, co-host of “Gals on The Go” podcast, and host of “AM Uncovered”
“Just a train ride from New York City, the Hamptons are a perfect escape, buzzing with excitement as city-goers head east for the weekend. The shopping is unparalleled, and it’s great for people-watching, too. Each restaurant has its unique vibe, consistently offering something new and enjoyable. This mix of convenience, vibrant scenes, and great dining makes my love for the Hamptons grow with every visit.”
Stephanie Gottlieb
Jewelry designer
“I love the Hamptons because it’s the perfect time capsule of so many of my best memories with friends and family over the years.”
Storm Ascher
Independent curator, writer, and founder of Superposition Gallery and The Hamptons Black Arts Council
“I love the Hamptons because it has given me the space and the clarity to re-remember my right to joy, leisure, natural beauty, and legacy. I love the SANS (Sag Harbor Hills, Azurest and Ninevah Beach subdivisions) community and its history of movers and shakers. I also love hot lobster rolls!”
Tom Ierna
Talent manager and entrepreneur
“It’s the summer playground for New Yorkers. Fabulous homes, food, fashion, friends, and parties! What more could you ask for? The Hamptons is truly my happy place.”
Zach Erdem
Owner, 75 Main
“Inflation doesn’t exist! No matter what’s going on in the world the Hamptons does not get affected.”
Margaret Josephs
RHONJ star and entrepreneur
“I’ve had some of my best memories in the Hamptons. From family to close friends, there’s just no place like it in the world. The mix of peaceful countryside next to the ocean, with the chit-chat and fashion of the city, the Hamptons brings me serenity and rejuvenation that so few places do!”
Lyss Stern
Founder and CEO of Diva Moms
“I love embracing the Hamptons’ essence, where long strolls along the beautiful beaches and fun BBQs with family and friends bring me so much happiness.”
Brianne Manz
Influencer
“I love everything about the Hamptons, from the beautiful beaches to the great restaurants and incredible friends I’ve made year after year. I’ve been coming here since I’m about 17 years old, so watching my children enjoy their summers here, from horseback riding to meetups with their friends in town, is all nostalgic to me.”
Kelly Bensimon
TV personality, real estate broker, and author
“The Hamptons are home to me. It’s where I raised my girls and continue to create unforgettable memories with them. It’s also where I decompress, enjoy quiet dinners with friends, and ride my horse. It centers me and prepares me for my incredibly busy schedule.”
Serena Kerrigan
Entrepreneur and founder of the Let’s F**king Date card game
“I’ve been visiting the Hamptons since I was a child, drawn to its serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The hydrangeas swaying in the breeze, the invigorating fresh air, and the soothing waves that caress our feet as we walk along the sand, all combine to create its charm.But my favorite part of the Hamptons is the freedom it offers, providing a departure from our daily busy lives in the concrete jungle.”
The Kaplan Twins
Artists and CEOs of Gemzeez
“The Hamptons are the epitome of ‘the scene.’ You’re always running into people you know, and it’s just fun! It’s like New York on the beach.”
Isaac Boots
Celebrity fitness trainer and creator of Torch’d
“My love for the Hamptons goes back nearly 20 years when I spent my first July 4th Out East. I’ve since cultivated not only a dedicated and generously philanthropic following but also a tight circle of dear friends I call family. Summer in the Hamptons is unquestionably the best, and my husband and I love spending time year-round seeing the seasons change.”
Lele Sadoughi
Founder and creative director of Lele Sadoughi
“Every summer, my family and I look forward to spending time in the Hamptons. It’s even more special now because we’re in Dallas for most of the year, so it’s a time where we get to see all our East Coast friends. Any excuse to be near water, hang with friends, and let the kids play on the beach is the reason why we love the Hamptons.”
Jared Seligman
Real estate agent
“In the summer, there’s nothing quite like the Hamptons, where you can find old-school farm stands and specialty markets, beautiful beaches, and enjoy art, antiques, fashion, and cultural events. Entertaining at home and making memories with loved ones are always my favorite parts.”
Jill Zarin and Ally Shapiro
Reality stars and founders of Jilly & Ally
“The Hamptons has always been our second home. From the restaurants that have been here for decades to the new ones that pop up every summer, to the friends we made in our boating days 30 years ago to the new ones we meet along the way—it’s a mix of nostalgia and fresh adventures. The Hamptons have a way of staying classic while still keeping up with whatever life throws at us.”
Jennifer Zuccarini
Founder of Fleur du Mal
“I love the Hamptons because after traveling around the world to some of the most beautiful beaches, I still think few come close to the beauty of Amagansett. Sometimes I wake up early for a walk and I don’t see a single person, to have a stunning beach to yourself only a few hours from NYC is a gift.”
Mitchell Sozio
DJ (M-Soz)
“There’s no place I like DJing more than the Hamptons, especially for Spotlight’s parties!”