Exploring the Hamptons, NY During Off Season

There’s more to the Hamptons, NY than just being a preferred summer destination of the Big Apple’s elites and Hollywood’s popular personalities. When summer draws to a close and the new season calls for layers and layers of clothing, the island turns into a haven for people who enjoy relaxing time with family and friends.

During off season, the crowded streets of the Hamptons empty out and the city goes back into its old picturesque self—a quaint village with its own distinct charm. At this time of the year, it’s easier to make hotel reservations because rates start to drop dramatically as soon as Labor Day ends. It’s also an ideal time to visit the Hampton’s plethora of local restaurants, galleries and vineyards, and explore the less crowded surrounding beaches sans the dry and humid weather.

While it’s nice to take a plunge in the sea on a summer heat, others find happiness in long peaceful walks in the white sand beaches of the Hamptons while letting in the crisp breeze of sea air on a spring or autumn day.

Strolling around the area is also an enjoyable activity. Now that majority of tourists have already left the Hamptons, traffic is a lot more manageable. Getting to nearby destinations by car would only take a fraction of time.

Exploring the place by bicycle is also recommended. According to David Ozanich of BBC, "With the Hamptons’ flat terrain and long vistas, exploring the (area) by bicycle can be an good way to peek behind the gates and in-between the hedgerows of the mega-mansions on Lily Pond Lane in East Hampton or Ocean Road in Bridgehampton, or to explore the long boulevards interspersed with charming shops and restaurants."

Get a taste of fall in the Hamptons’ local staples like cheese, wine, fresh fish and more. Or you can visit the vineyards and try the best tasting wines on the island. Local wineries in the Hamptons are mostly concentrated in the towns of Bridgehampton, East Hampton and Southampton.

Apart from the local food offerings, every October in the Hamptons, NY, movie industry folks gather in the nearby shore to celebrate the best in independent films. Catch this annual film festival and witness the display of amazing international films that are set to enlighten its audiences about the issues of today. Hamptons International Film Festival celebrates independent film—long, short, fiction and documentary—and introduces a unique and varied spectrum of international films and filmmakers to the audience.

Leo Aranas is an online writer and blogger.