The Best Airbnbs In The Hamptons

Since the heat in Manhattan is pretty much unbearable in the summer, most city residents head out to Long Island's collection of eastern seaside communities known as the Hamptons. The towns all have different personae and activities to offer; choosing one just depends on what you're interested in. Surfing, top-notch restaurants, shopping, sunbathing and nightlife abound. There's also a wide range of places to stay to fit any budget, including private rooms, houses, cottages, apartments and mansions (hey, we can dream).

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To get you started, we've highlighted five areas and a mix of properties at various price points to choose from.

Located at the end of Long Island, Montauk is all about wine tastings, browsing farmers' markets and restaurant-hopping. If you enjoy outdoor activities, take a surf lesson or bike around town. Find Airbnb's full list of rentals here and some suggestions from us below.

① Montauk Waterfront Oasis ($175 a night)
② Waterfront House on Fort Pond ($350 a night)
③ Montauk Modern Waterfront Cottage ($500 a night)
Photo: Tim Hettler via Flickr

Home to beautiful, pristine beaches, this charming town is also full of delicious restaurants. Bonus: You can get there via the Long Island Rail Road, which means no car needed. Find Airbnb's full list of rentals here and some suggestions from us below.

① Beehive Bungalows, Cottage #5 ($318 a night)
② Hamptons Living Steps to the Beach ($375 a night)
③ Steps to the Beach and to Town ($500 a night)
Photo: antg007 via Flickr

This town has the best of everything: shopping, beaches, restaurants and exciting nightlife. It's also the place you're likely to spot celebrities. Find Airbnb's full list of rentals here and some suggestions from us below.

① Cottage in Heart of the Hamptons ($225 a night)
② Renovated Beach House ($350 a night)
③ Beautiful, Updated Cottage ($350 a night)
Photo: East Magazine

This town is full of prime (re: multimillion-dollar) real estate and is where many celebrities like to spend their own vacations. There are both public and private beaches, which are the perfect spots to watch the sunset. Find Airbnb's full list of rentals here and some suggestions from us below.

① Southampton Village Bungalow ($285 a night)
② Southampton Serenity ($350 a night)
③ Beautiful 3 Bedroom+ Loft House with Private Beach ($1,200 a night)
Photo: Getty Images

One of the prettiest villages in the Hamptons, Sag Harbor is full of beautiful storefronts and Hampton charm. Swing by the Sag Harbor Farmers Market to check out vendors like Bees' Needs, Backyard Brine Pickle Co. and Merken Fisheries. Find Airbnb's full list of rentals here and some suggestions from us below.

① Sag Harbor Village Pied-à-terre ($150 a night)
② Romantic Getaway in Sag Harbor ($195 a night)
③ Sag Harbor Retreat ($400 a night)
Photo: Jason Young via Flickr