In case you were sleeping, it’s now August and it’s full throttle here on the East End. But unlike Summer when I was 12 years old and it lasted forever, the season seems to fly faster and faster. But before you get to entrenched with sitting on Route 27 for hours on end or waiting an extra 40 minutes at virtually any restaurant for your table, please make sure to remember why you’re out here in the first place. You’re here to enjoy the beach, the water, the sun and snarking at the overdressed families at Scoop Du Jour on Tuesday nights! So here are some of my favorite things to do while the sun is still high. If you do, you might actually thinking spending all of the money to be in the Hamptons was worth it!
A Beach Dinner – While you could use one of the numerous “Claws” or “Clam” companies to caterer your affair… and yes its one heck of a presentation… I prefer to hit Citerella and get some dishes and salads to go. A big blanket and some nice chilled….errr…errr… “seltzer water” because wine on the beach is not allowed make for a really fantastic evening. You’ll may also want to wait till after 6 p.m. so that way you can start a nice little beach bonfire and there are some rules for that too (click here) for East Hampton and (here) for Southampton. But there is nothing more relaxing and memorable then the sound of the surf, the sand and an amazing light show above! My personal favorite is Wiborg Beach! The parking lot is small so there aren’t as many other picnickers.
Biking Shelter Island – A few weeks ago I was talking to some local police officers about living in the Hamptons. One thing they said they would never do during the season is go bicycling! Yes, the local walk in clinics are making a fortune from cyclists getting clipped by texting busy summer drivers. Perhaps that’s the reason why I prefer heading to Shelter Island for biking. In fact, Sag Harbor Cycle Company runs a group ride every Sunday at 7:30 am. It’s a perfect time to go before the roads get flooded with cars and the gang that runs these things know the safer routes and the roads less traveled. If you want more information, visit their website and NO TEXTING AND BIKING!
Go Paddeling – It’s about the water people, not about seeing the people that live down the hall from you in the city at spin class! Its a great work out and think about it, unless you love getting a gamma globulin shot do you really want to fall into the east river? There are some great companies out here that will rent you kayaks or paddle boards and even give you a lesson. The calm waters of Shinnecock Bay or Georgica Pond are two local favorites. If you want more details on who and where, try Main Beach Surf Shop in Wainscott or Adventure PaddleBoards in Southampton.
Take the Dogs to the Beach – Did I mention that my dogs Bella and Russell love the beach?! Hmmmmmm…. I’m not sure. Do your homework and find what times your furry friends are allowed to run the surf! Also remember to clean up and bring some treats in case they go chasing some delicious piping plover!
Now get off the damn computer and go outside!!!!