The Hamptons On a Budget

The Hamptons are famous as an expensive summer destination with posh seaside homes, prestigious country clubs, and wealthy vacationers. Three zip codes in The Hamptons are listed in the top 10 most expensive zip codes in the United States.
Nobody really visits The Hamptons hoping to stick to a tight budget, but if you think outside the box you might be able to save a little money. Enjoy the free sights in the area, hang out on the beach, and eat a lot of pizza, if you're hoping to keep your costs in check.
Sights
The beaches are among the top sights for visitors to The Hamptons. There are beaches on both the ocean and bay sides, with the bay side beaches being the least crowded and most calm. The most popular beach in the area is Main Beach in East Hampton. This is just one place to see and be seen. For a slightly less crowded experience head to Georgica Beach which is lined with many impressive mansions and estates.Art Galleries and art shows are also very popular in The Hamptons and a fun way to pass the evening.
Neighborhoods
There are two main areas to The Hamptons - Southampton and East Hampton. Southampton is located in southeastern Long Island and has lavish homes, beautiful bed and breakfasts, and a number of summer rentals that attract the wealthy vacationers from New York City. There is a small population of year round residents, but the area comes to life during the summer months.The areas in Southampton include:
Westhampton, Quogue, East Quogue, Hampton Bays, Southampton Village, North Sea, Sag Harbor, North Sea, Water Mill, Bridgehampton, Sagaponack
East Hampton is a mix of New England families who've resided in the area for years and celebrities vacationing in luxurious homes. The area has a local vibe without the chain restaurants and shops that have become ubiquitous elsewhere.
Villages in this area include:
Wainscott, East Hampton Village, Springs, Sag Harbor, Amagansett, Napeague, and Montauk.
Activities
Prestigious country clubs are common in The Hamptons and many visitors enjoy a round of golf. The Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is just one private and exclusive club, but it's definitely not for beginners. The Bridgehampton Golf Club is a nine hole course and also offers private tennis lessons.The beaches also offer a number of activities for visitors including surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. You can rent any equipment you might need at a number of places near the beaches.