Sure, it's great to be able to stay in a fabulous world-class lodging on the South Fork. But what if your means are more modest? We picked out fabulous yet pricey places to stay in Southampton, East Hampton, and Montauk, and came up with some less expensive but still nice—hey, this is the Hamptons—options. All sample prices are per night for a midweek June stay.
Southampton Splurge
The 1708 House, 126 Main Street, Southampton
Sample price: $495 double
The Lowdown: Staying in a beautiful, historic town like Southampton? Why not stay in a beautiful part of history like the 1708 House? The main part of the inn includes four 18th century bedrooms that are brimming with charm, but include modern amenities like flatscreens and wireless Internet. Have breakfast in a dining room set with Limoges and sterling, and then relax on a brick patio before heading out the beach.
Southampton Save
The Easterner Motel, 639 East Montauk Highway, Southampton
Sample price: $150, family room
The Lowdown: The Easterner isn't quite in the center of town, located in Shinnecock Hills, but it does offer its own pool and tennis court. The family room includes two full size beds, a full kitchen with oven and full-size refrigerator, sitting area, and a flatscreen TV. There's even a BBQ area for guests.
East Hampton Splurge
Hedges Inn, James Lane, East Hampton
Sample price: $850 for the Oyster Room (shown)
The Lowdown: The Hedges Inn is an old-school hostelry (began 1873 as a summer boardinghouse, run by the redoubtable Isabella Hedges, who founded the Ladies' Village Improvement Society) right overlooking Town Pond in the center of East Hampton village. There are 12 newly renovated guest bedrooms, exquisite gardens, a charming front porch, which is a great place to indulge in one of the inn's wonderful breakfasts.
East Hampton Save
East Hampton House, 226 Pantigo Road, East Hampton
Sample price: $215 for a two room suite with kitchenette, private patio or sun deck and a garden view
The Lowdown: Want to sample everything beautiful East Hampton has to offer with your kids? Try East Hampton House. There's a kids' playground on the property as well as a children's pool. For adults, there's a larger pool as well as two tennis courts and a fitness area. Passes for parking at all town and village beaches are available, and there's a barbecue area for grilling your dinner.
Montauk Splurge
Solé East Beach,107 S Emerson Avenue, Montauk
Sample price: $199, king room
The Lowdown: Looking for a relaxed surfer vibe close to the beach? Look no further than Solé East Beach, sister to Solé East resort (and you can use the pool at the resort). The hotel is right across from the ocean beach and features simple, peaceful rooms and close to the action in town.
Montauk Save
Hartman's Briney Breezes, 693 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk
Sample price: $175 for "deluxe studio apartment" (includes full kitchen)
The Lowdown: Briney Breezes is great for families. It's also right across from the ocean beach, but when you're not there, there's plenty of grass for wiffleball games, a pool, and barbecues.