Since it’s summer and the weather is beautiful, I thought I would comment on the place I spend most of my time when I am not in Manhattan: the Southampton hamlet of Hampton Bays. Recently highlighted in the New York Post for its low key vibe, beautiful water views and comparatively inexpensive home prices, the area is still a hidden gem of the east end and a much shorter drive than its more eastern neighbors. While it’s still modestly priced, it’s becoming more popular with each passing year.  An intimate community with fantastic waterfront dining (Cowfish, Rumba, Canal Café, Edgewater & Oaklands to name a few), it is bound on the south by the Shinnecock Bay and on the north by the Peconic Bay, which are perfect for sailing, paddle boarding and kite surfing. It’s also a popular fishing destination as the Shinnecock Inlet lets out into the Atlantic Ocean where offshore fisherman head out to sea with visions of 200 lbs tuna dancing in their heads (including my husband). As the Hampton Bay’s Historical Society puts it, “The confluence of water and sky creates a unique shimmering atmosphere, which has drawn countless tourists, adventure seekers, artists and painters…” For more on the area’s rich history visit the Historical Society’s website.

As evidence of its gaining popularity, The NY Post highlights, “Hampton Boathouses, a new waterfront project under construction in the town, will include 37 three-bedroom townhomes with private patios or balconies. The community will also have a dock equipped with 20 boat slips and a pool with 360-degree views of Great Peconic Bay and Shinnecock Bay. Prices start at $1.5 million, according to developer Rechler Equity Partners. Completion is expected in the spring of 2020.” For renderings and more information, visit https://hamptonboathouses.com/. Construction of the Hampton Boathouses is part of a larger Maritime Planned Development District —including the rehabilitation of the Canoe Place Inn, which is reportedly the oldest inn site in America. In disrepair for years, the restoration of this iconic building will include a 90 seat restaurant and tap room with locally sourced food and beverage with additional outdoor seating for 120 guests, as well 20 guest room suites and five cottages that will offer additional accommodations. It will also feature a 350-seat catering venue that will represent the largest event space on the South Fork, perfect for weddings and parties in an idyllic setting. These improvements will undoubtedly boost the local economy and overall allure of Hampton Bays and home prices will certainly reflect that in the coming years.

If you’re interested in visiting and exploring this summer, The Hampton Maid is an adorable hotel with an amazing breakfast. They also have brand new LEED certified stand-alone suites with indoor/outdoor fireplaces, rain showers, bubble air baths, heated floors, and modern finishes. Family run for over 50 years and overlooking the Shinnecock Bay, it’s really a lovely spot that I highly recommend for a relaxing weekend getaway. It’s close to the water and only a 10 minute drive to Southampton town center with its myriad shops and restaurants (Union Cantina, Red Bar Brasserie, The Golden Pear Café, & Tutto Il Giorno being fan favorites).

For a little more info, here is Corcoran’s take on Hampton Bays real estate!

Check out more listings here!