East Hampton, NY

Address:East Hampton, New York

Have you ever wondered about the lifestyles of the rich and famous? If so, then you should visit East Hampton, New York, a popular vacation spot labeled the "playgournd of the rich". East Hampton is also an important whaling hub, and the beaches frequently collect "drift whales", which were once used for oil trade.

East Hampton was first settled in 1648, by a group of English Puritans who had migrated from England to the colonies of Massachusetts and Connecticut in the first half of the 17th century. The land was previously inhabited by the Montaukett Native Americans. When it was first settled, East Hampton was called "Maidstone", but was renamed as East Hampton in 1664 when New York was established as a state.

East Hampton has a hopping social atmosphere, and there are always soirees, charity functions, and social gatherings to attend. However, for the average visitor, there are also a few things to do around town. At Guild Hall, you can browse fine art, and see a live theater performance. The beach is a great destination for swimming or relaxing in the sun, and golfing is also a popular pastime in East Hampton.

Several special events take place annually in East Hampton which visitors will surely enjoy. On Saturday before July 4th, the East Hampton Fire Department hosts a fireworks display. Later in the summer, there is a shark fishing tournament in the hamlet of Montauk. The annual summer Artists and Writers Softball Game also draws large crowds who come to see famous people play softball, the proceeds of which go to charity. Every October, the town hosts the Hamptons International Film Festival.

Many famous people are drawn to the social atmposphere of East Hampton, and the cost of living in East Hampton is over 325% the national average! East Hampton is famously known as the home of Jaskson Pollack, the world renowned painter, whose studio can be viewed by tourists. Many rich and famous people own estates in the area, and celebrities frequently spotted in East Hampton include Jerry Seinfeld, Martha Stewart, Puff Daddy and Chevy Chase. East Hampton was also once home to first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onasis.

The array of restaurants in East Hampton cater to a wealthy crowd. Some recommendations include Nick and Toni's Restaurant for Meditteranean cuisine, Babette's for vegetarian food and breakfast, Bamboo Restaurant and Sushi Lounge for Asian fare, or Fresno for an elegant dining atmosphere. For something less fancy, try the pizza at Fierros, or John Papas Café for a cheap and cheerful meal. Families may also enjoy O'Mally's and Sons for a burger, or Snowflake, a 1950's style drive in which is closed in the winter.

For lodgings, we recommend Bella Bed and Breakfast where you can receive free beach passes, Mill House Inn for a colonial lodging experience, or the highly rated Huntting Inn.

East Hampton is located in Suffolk County, New York, on Long Island, 2 hours northeast from New York City off of the MIA Memorial Highway.