No traffic, no restaurant lines, no crowds. It’s winter in the Hamptons. The celebrities and Manhattanites are gone, but that doesn’t mean this golden coastal stretch is full of ghost towns. The Hamptons in the winter is the stuff of serenity, romance and pure charm. For the savvy day-tripper willing to abide the chill, the Hamptons in the winter can be magical full of wait-free services, smiling shopkeepers and discounts. Go ahead; walk on the beach with the restless waves all to your self, dine at the big-name restaurant without a reservation or sample the island’s bounty of wine. This time of year the Hamptons are your oyster.
Climb the Lighthouse
Climb the 110 steps to the top of the Montauk Lighthouse and take a visit to the new visitors center. The National Historic Landmark has been part of the Long Island land and seascape for more than 200 years and now’s your chance to see it without a horde of families clamoring up those steps
Hangout at Buckskill Winter Club
Open 7 days a week the Buckskill Winter Club in East Hampton offers public skating and also lessons. The open-air skating rink harkens back to an earlier time. Turn off the smartphone and enjoy the rink. When it gets too chilly head inside for homemade soup and cocoa.
Eat at Nick and Toni’s
No wait and while less people gawking it’s all the better to focus on the simple menu which is full of comfort food from the local land and sea.
Sunday Suppers at Diliberto Winery
This annual event features a homemade pasta demonstration, live Italian music performances, and a delicious meal paired with the vineyards award-winning wines. The dinners run weekly through March 22. The cozy atmosphere and entertainment will transport you out of the winter cold for an afternoon. Or stay the weekend at the winery’s luxury apartment. The package includes a two-night stay (Friday and Saturday evening) for two people and two tickets for Sundays with Grandma for $399 (a $600 value). Sunday Supper is $49 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
Fireside Sessions
Join Nancy Atlas and her band of Journeymen at the Bay Street Theatre every Friday in March. The Nancy Atlas Project has opened for almost everyone you could imagine including Elvis Costello, Lucinda Williams, and Jimmy Buffett. Don’t miss out.
Walk on the Beach
You’ll have the sand to yourself even if it’s a bit chilly. Bundle up and venture out to the glorious seascape. The smell of the ocean will cleanse your soul.