Winter Romance in the Hamptons

It is a bleak 15 degrees this week and a blizzard is looming. All the more reason to think ahead to a cozy dinner date out for Valentines Day.

Here are some of our favorite winter spots that bring on the romance:

1. Nick & Tonis— It’s a classic for a reason. Normally closed on Mondays this time of year, they’ll be opening up with a special menu for Valentines Day.

2. Scarpetta at Gurneys— Gurneys isn’t top of mind in the winter, but if you head to your reservation early you can cozy up with a drink and a blanket by the fire pit overlooking the ocean. A romantic change of pace!

3. 1770 House— We love it here in the winter. The roaring fire in the tavern and intimate environments oozes of romance.

4. Barons Cove— Not our favorite spot for dinner, but a lovely spot for a drink and snack. What’s better than a fireplace and a cocktail as the sunsets?

5. Cove Hollow Tavern— Often forgotten, we love this restaurant for its delicious food and cozy environment— as well as a welcome change of pace from our usual spots.

Holiday Activities for Everyone

Christmas is just about a week away! And there are plenty of fun activities happening in The Hamptons for everyone.

Here are our top picks for things to do leading up to Santa’s Big Day.

Decorate Cookies at Amber Waves Farm

The farm is really dressed up for the season! Head over to the farm on Saturday December 18th for some festive cookie decorating for kids of all ages.

Visit Wölffer Estate

The estate is so gorgeous this time of year! Enjoy a flight of their delicious wine while enjoying their seasonal decor and the rows of vines lit up for the holidays.

Visit the Lighthouse

The hike out to the point is well worth the gorgeous holiday sight of seeing the lighthouse lit up from head to toe! Not to be missed this year after its hiatus in 2020.

Write Letters to Santa

Make sure the kids get their letters to Santa! Spend a morning writing special letters and dropping them off to Santa’s special mailbox on Newtown Lane in East Hampton Village.

Holiday Storytime

Cozy up for a special holiday story time at the Southampton Library. Monday, December 20, 10:15 a.m. Preregistration is required.

Winter Days in the Hamptons

Whether visiting for the weekend or the entire holiday season, people always inevitably ask what they should do in The Hamptons during the winter months!

I understand it’s not as straight forward as summer— where you can rely on beach days and sunsets— but the holidays are so charming in The Hamptons. You just need a few pointers of where to go to embrace the season.

The perfect Winter Day in the Hamptons

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Enjoy delicious coffee— without the summer lines.

First things first— Grab a hot coffee. My two favorite spots right now are S&S Corner Shop in Springs and Il Buco Vita in Amagansett. Both have great pastries too !

Next— head to the beach

The key to any winter experience is to be sure you’re always dressed for the weather. I know that everyone always thinks of The Hamptons as a beach town, but it’s still New York and it’s still December. (You’d be surprised how many people are shocked that it’s cold here!)

Get yourself extra bundled up and bring the kids and the dog to the beach. The light this time of year is spectacular and you’ll often see more wildlife like whales and seals than in the summertime.

Drive to the Montauk Lighthouse

If you time this perfectly with the early sunset, you’ll catch a gorgeous sky as well as the lights covering the Lighthouse. It is spectacular!

Enjoy a fireside Dinner

There are many great restaurants—casual and upscale—that have fireplaces you can enjoy during your meal. A few of our favorites are 1770 House (the downstairs tavern), Dopo East Hampton or Sag Harbor, Rowdy Hall, and The Palm.

After a day like this, you will understand the beauty of the East End no matter the season! It’s about slowing down and savoring. There is no rush to be anywhere or do anything.

What’s your idea of a perfect winter day?

Hamptons Holiday Shops

Every one seems to be on the holiday train early this year. Hanukkah begins Thanksgiving weekend & supply chain issues are propelling everyone to shop now.

While you make your list or check off your family’s, shopping at our local Hamptons shops help to support them through quieter winters. Even major brands that have shops in the Hamptons employ locals. So whenever possible, shop in person and try to avoid adding to your cart online.

Here are my favorite shops to find the perfect gift for every one on your list:

Grain Surf boards; Amagansett

For the surfer in your life, gift them with a workshop or check out their shop for handmade cutting boards and local art.

Stoney Clover Lane; East Hampton

Patches galore! Have fun with the holiday patches, local Hamptons patches and fun letters

The Little; East Hampton

Have a little one in your life? This adorable shop has holiday PJs, the softest plush animals, clothes & toys!

Book Hampton; East Hampton

We love gifting books! Find the perfect one here or ask the team to order what you’re looking for.

Sylvester & Co; Sag Harbor

Unique homes gifts or dreamy coffee— it’s easy to find a great gift here!

White’s Pharmacy; East Hampon, Sag Harbor, Southampton

I know it seems odd to shop for gifts at a pharmacy, but I have found some of the best gifts here! Luxury candles, unique matches, perfumes & small gifts.

Where are your favorite places to gift shop in the Hamptons?