Public Beaches in the Hamptons, New York

Although it is perhaps best known as a summer party spot for America's rich and famous, the Hamptons in New York is not a completely exclusive destination. An amalgam of affluent villages and townships such as Southampton, Hampton Bays and East Hampton that clings the south shore of Long Island, the Hamptons are home to several beaches that are open to members of the public.

  1. Main Beach

    • Main Beach is the central-most -- and also the largest -- beach along the East Hampton shorefront. It is one of only three beaches adjacent to the village that have regular lifeguards on duty. The central location and added safety of this beach make it popular among beachgoing families. The lifeguards patrol Main Beach only between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., so swimming at any other time is at your own risk.

      Main Beach

      Ocean Avenue

      East Hampton, NY 11937

    Cooper's Beach

    • Down the coast from East Hampton lies Southampton, home to Cooper's Beach, which won the Best U.S. Beach honor in the 2009 DrBeach.org poll. The white sand dunes that pepper this beach provide views of the nearby mansions, including one owned by Calvin Klein, according to "The Christian Science Monitor." Although Cooper's Beach is open to members of the public, there is a charge for parking: $30 per day during the week, a fee that increases to $35 on Saturdays and Sundays.

      Cooper's Beach

      4 Cooper Neck Road

      Southampton, NY 11968

    Two Mile Hollow Beach

    • Two Mile Hollow Beach is another East Hampton-area beach with lifeguards on regular duty. Located at the easternmost extent of the East Hampton beaches, Two Mile Hollow Beach is popular among gay beachgoers, according to "The New York Times." Regardless of your lifestyle, however, the beach is prime for adults and is home to several bars.

      Two Mile Hollow Beach

      Two Mile Hollow Road

      East Hampton, NY 11937