Blogs 12 Long Island: DAY TRIPPERS East End

By Elisa DiStefano

Some Long Islanders love the Hamptons, and I know some of you hate it! I've spent many summers in Southampton. I love family BBQs, friends' poolside parties, strolling through town, the beaches, getting cookies at Tate's bake shop and meeting up with friends at polo. I love visiting Montauk. There's so much to do! I've been going to Gosman's Dock since I was a little girl. Surf Lodge is a new nightspot in Montauk this summer. They don't have a door policy, so it's more laid back-- plus, it's nice to be outside on the water.

Polo in Bridgehampton

Surf Lodge

Chef Sam Talbot

Just don't wear heels-- they get stuck in the deck ( I learned the hard way!)! I've heard great things about their restaurant -- Top Chef's Sam Talbot is their kitchen. If you learn the back roads, getting around the Hamptons isn't terrible! If not, it could take a very long time traveling between towns! If you are anti-Hamptons, or want to try something new and take an untraditional trip to the East End, you can see both forks and an island in between in just one Day Trip!

Start off in Sag Harbor-- a place many call the "Un-Hamptons". Unlike the Hamptons towns, you won't find Gucci and big designer shops. You will find a quaint, charming Main Street with small shops like the 5 and 10, boutiques, and art galleries. Pick up a kite at Kites of the Harbor ( 75 Main Street, 631-725-9063 ) Check out the old world charm of the historic American Hotel (25 Main Street, 631-725-3535). My friends often meet there for a glass of wine outside and people watching! If you'd rather watch beautiful yachts, you can eat outdoors at B.Smith (Long Wharf at Bay Street, 631-725-5858) or The Dockhouse (on the Long Wharf, 631-725-7555). Grappa is a new wine bar (62 Main Street, 631-725-0055). La Superica (631-725-3388) is known for it's Mexican dishes. Sen (23 Main Street, 631-725-1774) has amazing sushi-- they don't take reservations, so it's tough to get in on weekends. Try New Paradise Cafe for lunch (126 Main Street, 631-725-6080). If you want to stop for breakfast on the way into town, check out Estia's Little Kitchen (1615 Sag Harbor Bridgehampton Turnpike, 631-725-1045)( I'm a fan of the pancakes!).

If you crave the Hamptons-esque celeb spotting-- well, you could run into some famous faces shopping or lunching in town, on stage or in the audience at the Bay Street Theatre (on the Long Wharf), or stop in Donna Karan's earth friendly (not too pocket friendly) boutique Urban Zen (4 Bay Street, 631-725-6176) or if you want to eat in a zen like atmosphere check out Tutto Il Giorno (owned by Karan's daughter) next door (6 Bay Street, 631-725-7009). It's quite peaceful on the outdoor deck that has a water view.

Next take Route 114 North to the South Ferry-- it's a 3 minute ride to Shelter Island, the island sheltered by and nestled between the North and South Fork. Or consider biking there or going on foot (it's only $1 to travel that way) (631-749-1200)!

If you want to visit a really quiet, serene place-- Shelter Island is it! Locals describe it as more of a New England countryside. Ask for a map at the Ferry. Drive around and see the beautiful homes and quaint little towns. Stop and grab a bite to eat. Locals recommend Pat & Steve's Family Restaurant (63 North Ferry Rd, 631-749-1998) Rent a kayak at Shelter Island Kayak Tours (Route 114 & Duvall, 631-749-1990) and explore the creeks and harbors. If you want a little more of a party atmosphere, go to Crescent Beach and visit Sunset Beach (35 Shore Rd, 631-749-2001). Many people come from the Hamptons for dinner and cocktails. This hotel/bar/restaurant has a beautiful view of Shelter Island Bay.

Next, head to the North Ferry (631-749-0139) and go to Greenport! This time, it's a 10 minute ride! The view as you pull in to the dock is just breathtaking. Park off Main Street. There are adorable cafes and shops. You can dine on the water at historic Claudio's (111 Main Street, 631-477-0627). There are a number of places to get sweets and ice cream! Go for a ride on the carousel (at Mitchell Park at Front Street)! There are motels and bed and breakfasts in the area. If you are driving back west, stop at one of the many vineyards on the Main Rd and Sound Avenue. I don't know much about wine, but I enjoy sitting outside at Raphael! One of my favorite things to do is stop and pick up fresh flowers and veggies at the local farmstands! Half the fun is discovering these little treasures on your own, but if you need some help try Harbes (715 Sound Ave, Mattituck 631-298-080) or Wickham's (Route 25 Cutchogue 631-734-6441).