Spring in the Hamptons arrives in slow, beautiful waves—longer days, budding trees, and the first warm breezes hinting at summer’s approach. While the beaches are still quiet and some seasonal spots remain closed, there’s a special magic to experiencing the Hamptons before the summer rush. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk, fresh farm-to-table eats, or the first flowers of the season, here’s a guide to making the most of early spring out east.
🌷 Start the Day at Waterdrinker Family Farm (Tulip Festival in April & May)
Located in Manorville, Waterdrinker Family Farm is a must-visit in early spring, especially if you’re craving color after a long winter. Their Tulip Festival, held annually in April and May, transforms the farm into a vibrant sea of blooms, with over a million tulips in every shade imaginable. Rows upon rows of Dutch-inspired beauty make for the perfect photo op, and there’s something special about strolling through the fields, soaking in the first real signs of spring.
Beyond the tulips, Waterdrinker offers a full family-friendly experience with farm animals, mini-golf, and local vendors selling fresh produce and baked goods. If you’re visiting before the festival kicks off, you can still stop by for seasonal plants, greenhouse shopping, and an early taste of farm life.
🌊 Midday Walk: Gerard Drive in Springs
After the farm, take a scenic drive to Springs, one of the Hamptons’ most artistic and serene areas. Gerard Drive is a narrow, winding strip of road that hugs the water, offering some of the most breathtaking views of Gardiners Bay. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk, light jog, or even just a few deep breaths of salty air.
Even in early spring, you’ll often see locals enjoying the path, fishermen casting lines, and maybe even a few brave souls dipping their toes in the water. Bundle up, bring a coffee, and enjoy a moment of solitude with the bay stretching out on both sides of you.
🌱 Shop for Your Spring Garden at Amber Waves Farm
No trip to the Hamptons in early spring is complete without a stop at Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett. This beloved organic farm and market opens its doors for the season with their spring seedling sale, offering everything from herbs and leafy greens to tomato plants and edible flowers to kickstart your own home garden.
Even if you’re not in the market for seedlings, Amber Waves’ market is stocked with fresh local goods, including farm-grown produce, baked goods, and their famous granola. It’s the perfect place to pick up a few spring essentials before heading to your next stop.
🦞 First Dinner of the Season at Bostwick’s Chowder House
A true sign that warm weather is on the way? Bostwick’s Chowder House reopening for the season. Located in East Hampton, this casual seafood spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its creamy clam chowder, buttery lobster rolls, and fresh-caught seafood platters.
There’s something about that first bite of chowder on a breezy spring day that makes it feel like summer is just around the corner. Grab a table outside (if it’s warm enough!) or cozy up indoors and enjoy one of the Hamptons’ most iconic seasonal dining experiences.
🥂 Brunch at Carissa’s Bakery
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, make sure to stop at Carissa’s Bakery for brunch. With locations in East Hampton and Sag Harbor, Carissa’s is known for its gorgeous pastries, elevated breakfast dishes, and cozy-chic atmosphere.
Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly flaky croissant, a nourishing grain bowl, or a frothy oat milk cappuccino, Carissa’s never disappoints. Bonus: Their spring menu often features fresh, seasonal ingredients, so keep an eye out for new dishes highlighting the best of the season.
🧺 Picnic in Amagansett Square (Lunch & a Beer from Doubles)
As the sun warms up in the afternoon, Amagansett Square is the perfect spot to sit outside and soak up the fresh air. Grab a sandwich from Doubles, a new local favorite known for its creative menu and high-quality ingredients. Pair it with a cold Montauk beer and enjoy a relaxed picnic in the square, surrounded by charming boutiques and the town’s easygoing vibe.
This is the kind of early spring afternoon that feels slow, simple, and just right.
💛 Stop for Fresh Daffodils at The Osborn Girls Flower Stand
One of the sweetest roadside stops in the Hamptons, The Osborn Girls Flower Stand is a must-visit in early spring when the daffodils start blooming. Located in East Hampton, this family-run stand offers fresh-cut seasonal flowers—a perfect little takeaway to brighten your home or weekend rental.
The stand operates on the honor system, so bring some cash, grab a bouquet, and enjoy a moment of old-school Hamptons charm.
🎨 End the Day at LongHouse Reserve
To wrap up your day, head to LongHouse Reserve, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden and nature sanctuary in East Hampton. The 16-acre reserve, founded by textile designer and collector Jack Lenor Larsen, is home to sculptures by world-renowned artists, walking trails, and gardens that slowly come to life as the weather warms.
Even in early spring, LongHouse is a beautiful place to visit—whether you’re admiring the art, wandering the grounds, or simply taking in the tranquility of the space. It’s a reminder that the Hamptons isn’t just about beaches and summer—it’s a destination full of creativity, history, and beauty year-round.
Final Thoughts: Why Early Spring in the Hamptons is Worth the Trip
There’s something special about experiencing the Hamptons before summer kicks into high gear. The restaurants are reopening, the first flowers are blooming, and there’s a sense of calm that disappears once Memorial Day arrives. Whether you’re exploring farm stands, taking a quiet walk by the water, or enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the area’s top spots, early spring is a time to slow down and savor the season.
Where are your favorite places to visit in the Hamptons this time of year? Drop a comment and share your go-to spots! 🌿✨
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