The Hamptons is well known for having some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. No one will dispute that fact, but how to choose the best among them?
Everyone has a favorite, whether it’s a beloved spot steeped in childhood memories and family tradition, an epic surf break or home to an expansive jetty perfect for surfcasting. Maybe it’s simply the beach that’s steps away from our back porch.
With that said, Dan’s Best of the Best voters tend to be pretty on point when it comes to choosing the best, ahem, of the best on the East End. Go figure.
It’s no surprise Coopers Beach in Southampton Village (268 Meadow Lane) earned the Platinum crown. This popular spot was rated “Best Beach in America” by Doctor Beach in 2010, a distinction that can only be earned once, per the beach expert’s rules. With its wide expanse of sand, family-friendly pavilion and lively schedule of summer events (including concerts and movies), Coopers is a local treasure. And it’s the only Southampton Village beach that offers day passes to non-residents.
Following Coopers, voters chose Ponquogue Beach, right over the Ponquogue Bridge on Dune Road in Hampton Bays, for its unpretentious atmosphere, huge sandy beach and gorgeous water views. You’ll rarely struggle to park, there’s good fishing, barbecues after 6 p.m. and several nearby restaurants and resorts, along with a convenient snack shack and restroom facilities.
Sagg Main Beach, at the south end of Sagg Main Street in Sagaponack, is another voters’ favorite. Beautiful dunes, access to nearby Sagaponack Pond and a fine mix of locals and visitors make this beach a prime destination for East Enders of all stripes. It’s well appointed with restrooms and food trucks, but Sagg Main still feels as free and rustic as its bucolic surrounds.
Rounding out our Best of the Best winners, Ditch Plains Beach, off Ditch Plains Road in Montauk, has inspired a fanatical following in recent years. Surfers gather from all over to enjoy the community and long outside break, perfect for seasoned shredders and groms alike. For the really little ones, tidal pools and friendly, skilled lifeguards keep things fun and safe. And, ask anyone, the Ditch Witch food truck is legendary. This is the place to be on The End.
Of course this is just a primer for seeking out the best Hamptons beach for you and yours. Visit DansBOTB.com to find more beaches and/or nominate your Dan’s Best of the Best picks.
