The East End has its hotspots—but locals know where to go when they want to tap in to the tried-and-true warmth, hospitality, and lush greenery that makes the Hamptons a prime destination for rest and relaxation. For CULTURED‘s July/August Hamptons issue, a cross-section of residents share the places they actually frequent: quiet trails, no-frills shops, and under-the-radar services. Think less scene, more scenic.
Rachelle Hruska MacPherson, Founder, Lingua Franca
“If you have tweens, teens, or any kids-at-heart who are into mysterious tales à la Stranger Things, you must hike around Camp Hero, a decommissioned military base in Montauk. It’s one of a kind in its eeriness, and full of government conspiracy lore that makes it feel like you’re walking through a sci-fi set. I also love strolling Shadmoor, up along the cliffs west of Ditch Plains—breathtaking! And for a perfect family hike, the Amsterdam Beach trail is a favorite. You’ll even catch a glimpse of the Warhol estate along the way. Total Montauk magic.”
Sean MacPherson, Hotelier, the Crow’s Nest Inn, the Hotel Chelsea, the Bowery Hotel
“When the Ditch Plains beaches get too crowded, I often head to Culloden Point for a respite. Named for the British warship HMS Culloden, which ran aground in 1781, Culloden Point is also where the illegally enslaved men on the Amistad overthrew their captors and came ashore in 1839. Today, it offers pristine secluded beaches, spectacular sunsets, and treasure-hunt diving for remnants of the Culloden shipwreck.”
Ulla Johnson, Fashion Designer
“The first is Galerie Sardine, the curatorial space situated in an old farmhouse on Main Street, Amagansett. It is wonderful and feels unexpected. Second, bonfires with friends who are family, as well as our families, on Navy Beach.”
Tali Magal, Founder, Freebird Productions
“One of my favorite summer rituals out East starts early when the air is still cool. We paddle our kayaks across Three Mile Harbor through the salt marshes by Sammy’s Beach and treat ourselves to coffee and pastries on the other side at Buongiorno. Those calm moments on the water, especially with our daughters along for the ride, are some of the best of summer.”
Selby Drummond and Steven Dubb, Senior Strategic Officer, Plum Alley Ventures Company and Principal, The Beechwood Organization
“Our favorite spot these days in Amagansett is Galerie Sardine, quietly tucked away just off Main Street in a beautiful historic house. Valentina Akerman and Joe Bradley have curated an exceptionally beautiful rotating collection of art and design, overflowing with the soul of the wonderful community of artists behind it. We also take advantage of our favorite hair stylist, local icon Danny Dimauro. His men’s cut is unrivaled. You can only book through friends and word of mouth—or, if you’re lucky, by Instagram. You can check @deepcutsbydanny for last-minute openings.”
Edwina Von Gal, Landscape Designer
“Naturally, all of my recs are nature-based. The Walking Dunes are crazy beautiful—they’re a unique ecosystem of sand dunes that end in wet bogs with native cranberries and (some carnivorous!) orchids. Now, the secret: If you keep walking, turn to the north a bit and loop back around to the west through the woods, you’ll be rewarded with great views of big and little ponds. It is not easy to find the trail, but it doesn’t matter; it’s a fun place to wander and discover amazing, old, contorted oak trees. A little local gem is the South Fork Natural History Museum in Bridgehampton. Good for children and adults—their staff is so engaging and enthusiastic.”
Tiina Laakkonen, Longtime owner of the beloved Amagansett staple Tiina the Store
“Cedar Point is an exquisite sliver of land with views of Gardiner’s Bay and a historic lighthouse. A perfect, peaceful hike at any time of the year. On the North Fork, 8 Hands Farm is my absolute favorite place to buy organic produce. It’s a family-run farm with pasture-raised sheep, pigs, and chickens, and there’s a great selection of eggs, meats, vegetables, and prepared foods. The little drive and the ferries are a way to experience a more authentic side of eastern Long Island.”
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