12 Airbnbs in the Hamptons we're eyeing for an end-of-summer escape

Updated 2021-08-19T20:30:34Z

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  • On Long Island's east end, the Hamptons are known for big money and oceanfront mansions.
  • But you don't need to be a celebrity to stay here; we found Airbnbs from $199 to $1,207 per night.
  • Our choices for the best Hamptons Airbnbs include apartments, cottages, and homes with pools.

If you're a New Yorker, you know that for many, summer is synonymous with the Hamptons. Long Island's famed string of beach towns lure city dwellers to its sandy shores, upscale boutiques, and ritzy parties. 

My husband and I spent our youth pooling money with friends on share homes in the Hamptons. Our frugal experience was the antithesis of the big-moneyed, celebrity-studded reputation the Hamptons now enjoys.

Eventually, we purchased our own cottage in Amagansett that we rent in the summer on Airbnb and Vrbo. Being a host has given me a unique peek into the vacation rental market. I spend hours sleuthing out the competition and even installed a classic cedar hot tub to set our listing apart. 

Knowing a thing or two about standout vacation rentals, I combed Airbnb to select well-located, appealing, reasonably-priced homes. In other words, my competition. But unlike most Hamptons rentals, these properties are priced for mere mortals, too. 

The best Airbnbs in the Hamptons were selected based on the following criteria:

  • Airbnb listings are for the entire home, cottage, or stand-alone studio — no awkward meetings with hosts or other guests, and guaranteed social distancing.
  • Each home is committed to Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, a five-step cleaning process developed in partnership with health and hospitality experts. 
  • Each house is priced between $199 and $1,207 per night to start (though that is subject to change during the peak summer season, especially on weekends).
  • All are highly-rated Airbnb listings in the Hamptons with a review score of 4.4 or higher.
  • Each property has impressive design and features, from fireplaces to pools — the very amenities you'd want in a summer beach escape or cozy winter getaway.
  • Browse all the best Airbnb homes in the Hamptons below, or jump directly to a specific area here:

    These are some of the best Airbnbs in the Hamptons, sorted by price from low to high.

    Sunny cottage near downtown East Hampton

    East Hampton is where many celebrities call home. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $199

    Location: East Hampton

    Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 4.88

    Many people consider East Hampton to be the hottest spot in the Hamptons. This is where celebrities like Jerry Seinfeld and Alec Baldwin live (and it's not uncommon to see them in town).

    This enticing one-bedroom cottage is a short distance from the lively downtown, which is full of chic boutiques and restaurants. It's also an easy stroll to stunning ocean and bay beaches. The cottage itself isn't fancy, but it's full of light with soaring ceilings, and people usually pay a much steeper price to find prime real estate like this.

    Artist's apartment in Sag Harbor

    Save time for a soak in the living room tub. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons guest home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $213

    Location: Sag Harbor

    Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.80

    While perhaps not as overtly posh as some of the other entries, this funky home brings loads of character to the table that's hard to replicate. 

    This eclectic guest home trades the gleaming white interiors seen in most Hamptons homes and replaces it with terra cotta floors, stucco walls, and hand-painted Costa Rican-style sink and tiles. The layout eschews tradition too: there's a freestanding clawfoot tub smack in the middle of the living room, and the flow is railroad-style, meaning each room connects to the next. The TVs aren't up-to-date, but this isn't really the type of place you come to binge stream.

    There are simple luxuries too, with a new outdoor shower, a fenced-in yard with colorful blooms, and free use of bikes, surfboards, and a four-person canoe. 

    Bungalow with ocean views in Montauk

    Savor boho midcentury vibes in this Montauk cottage. Airbnb

    Book this Montauk cottage on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $315

    Location: Montauk

    Sleeps: 2 guests/studio

    Rating: 4.91

    We love the boho laidback vibes found out east in Montauk, where things feel a bit slower than other villages within the Hamptons. Of course, that secret is now out and the crowds have followed, but that shouldn't keep you from considering making your base here.

    This simply furnished cottage is a steal considering you'll only pay around $300 per night midweek in summer. Or, visit in winter to curl up beside the retro-looking working fireplace. There's a Queen-sized bed, stand-up shower, full kitchen, cable, Wi-Fi, and ocean views to savor. Outside, take advantage of chairs and a grill, as well as the beach, which is only a short walk away.

    Cottage with a hot tub in Southampton

    Chilly nights are best spent stargazing from the hot tub. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $325

    Location: Southampton

    Sleeps: 2 guests/studio

    Rating: 4.97

    Great for experiencing the best of all worlds, this studio is set between old-moneyed Southampton and funky Sag Harbor, and is just one block away from Peconic Bay Beach.

    It's hidden away on an acre of evergreens, and relaxation is encouraged ⁠— the hosts built this home as an artist's studio inspired by their love of staying at five-star hotels and as such, added a full luxury shower, crisp white linens, down bedding, and feature art and vintage furniture widely. Beach towels and beach chairs are provided and there is even a deck and little koi pond with a waterfall. However, note that children and pets are not allowed.

    Waterfront beach house with a dock in Southampton

    Dreamy bay views feature prominently throughout the house. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $350

    Location: Southampton

    Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms

    Rating: 5.0

    This three-bedroom stunner overlooks a tranquil pond with a first floor surrounded by French doors and windows that offer front-row views of the bay.

    This year-round home makes it easy to enjoy warm weather with a deeded deep-water dock for your boat, or take out a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard for a ride around the adjacent pond. The Cold Spring Point Sandy private beach is a one-minute walk away too when you need a refreshing dip.

    There are three spacious bedrooms, including one kitted out with baby gear including a crib and a changing table, making this a great choice for families.

    But the star of this home is the huge deck framed by water views in every direction flanked by garden patio seating areas with umbrellas and a fire pit. 

    Tiny home in Southampton Village

    This beachy tiny home is an Airbnb Plus listing. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $486

    Location: Southampton Village

    Sleeps: 3 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 4.96

    Given that it's part of Airbnb Plus, you know this property will be well-designed with thoughtful touches. Indeed, it boasts one-of-a-kind design details, a responsive host, and extra creature comforts like beach gear and local products. The one-bedroom cottage is located right in Southampton Village, which means you'll have great access to shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and more.

    The cute dwelling includes many design nods to the local beach surrounds, as well as funky finds like a retro microwave. A tranquil brick patio includes comfy-looking loungers for sunbathing.

    Surf house in Amagansett

    Sleek decor showcases a designer's touch. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $499

    Location: Amagansett

    Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.93

    With its midcentury modern fireplace, soaring ceilings, and sleek furniture, this three-bedroom surf cottage in Amagansett looks like it could be featured in a home-design magazine. It's also located a short walk from a great beach.

    The space is calm and soothing with bright white walls, arched ceilings, a wall of books, and a wood-burning stove. High-tech entertainment amenities feature heavily and you'll have access to Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Amazon TV, and Amazon Echo/Alexa. But taking in the sea air is also encouraged and there's an inviting hammock in the backyard that beckons you to chill out and watch the clouds.

    Ocean view studio in Montauk

    This Airbnb within a hotel is oceanfront and comes with a kitchenette and a deck. Airbnb

    Book this Montauk apartment on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $518

    Location: Montauk

    Sleeps: 3 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 4.65

    If you prefer a hotel over Airbnb, you'll love this oceanfront studio, which is actually operated by a hotel: Beach Plum Resort. The rooms are also listed on Airbnb and this unit stands out for direct ocean views at a fraction of what you'll likely find elsewhere in Montauk. Rates are well under $200 in spring and even midweek in summer, they hover around $300. Of course, expect to pay much more for weekends.

    The apartment-style room comes with a kitchenette and a seating area separated from the Queen-sized bed by a small partition. There's also a private deck, though, it's worth noting that units vary and the pictures in this listing might not be the exact room you end up staying in.

    There are also full resort amenities such as outdoor showers, direct beach access, an in-ground heated pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. There are also barbecue grills and play areas.

    Contemporary home near the beach in Sag Harbor

    This large home is ideal for families or groups. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $599

    Location: Sag Harbor

    Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.98

    Less than 1,000 feet from the mile-long stretch of beach known as Long Beach, this home feels like a classic modern Hamptons home with clean lines and furnishings done up in hues of cream, light blue, and wood.

    The living room is inviting with an open-plan layout alongside a dining room, all set under high ceilings, and bathed in natural light. There's also a bright and sunny lower level room for watching TV, while a deck outfitted with an outdoor shower and gas BBQ grill overlooks a large lawn that enjoys privacy through well-kept landscaping.

    There are three bedrooms, making this a strong pick for a family getaway or group share.

    House within walking distance of East Hampton

    Industrial garage-style windows blend with midcentury mod furniture. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $649

    Location: East Hampton

    Sleeps: 4 guests

    Rating: 4.97

    This contemporary one-floor home in East Hampton includes modern decor such as translucent dining chairs, '60s style chairs and sofas, and a sloped wood ceiling. Light pours in through floor-to-ceiling garage bay-style windows in both the living area and main bedroom.

    There is a second bed, which is actually a Murphy bed hidden above the couch. Outside, guests may relax by the hot tub or sink into a large plush seating area with a fire pit. If you can manage to tear yourself away, hop on one of the provided cruiser bikes to ride to East Hampton Village.

    Modern luxury retreat with a gym and pool in East Hampton

    Live luxuriously in this lavish home with a gym and a large pool. Airbnb

    Book this Hamptons home with a pool on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $995

    Location: East Hampton

    Sleeps: 9 guests/4 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.82

    This five-bedroom home covers two lush acres near East Hampton and channels the area's posh feel within every inch of the house.

    There's a large chef's kitchen with a charcoal water filtration system, a spacious living area with midcentury modern furniture, a fireplace set under a dramatic beamed ceiling, as well as four bedrooms with statement wallpaper, goose down bedding, and 500 thread count sateen linens. The bathrooms have walk-in showers, high-end products by Oribé, and robes by Matouk.

    Other standout features include a lower-level gym with a Peloton bike, a large deck, covered areas to lounge, as well as an expansive heated pool.

    Safe haven with a pool in Quogue

    Worth the splurge for a large family, this spacious home has a private pool, five bedrooms, and a huge deck. Aribnb

    Book this Hamptons home with a pool on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $1,207

    Location: Quogue

    Sleeps: 10 guests/5 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.89

    Some snobs say that the blink-and-you'll-miss-it village of Quogue is too far west to be counted as one of the Hamptons, but you'll find the same charms and gorgeous beaches as in all the other towns. Plus, it's got convenience on its side since it's closer to New York City. Best of all, there are better deals to be found here since it's not in the heart of the scene.

    While pricey, this home counts five bedrooms and an overall California-boho style that feels refreshing among a sea of beach homes. The standout feature is, of course, the large pool, and there's also an enormous deck for grilling, complete with a blackboard where you can write up the day's menu. A nature reserve is nearby where you can go bird watching. 

    FAQ: Airbnbs in the Hamptons

    Erik Freeland/Getty Images

    Where are the Hamptons?

    The Hamptons are comprised of a string of towns, villages, and hamlets that stretch roughly 50 miles from Westhampton to Montauk on the tip of Long Island in the state of New York.

    What towns make up the Hamptons?

    The Hamptons is made up of hamlets and villages within the areas of Southampton and East Hampton. Popular places within Southampton include Westhampton, Quogue, Hampton Bays, Water Mill, Bridgehampton, Sagaponack, and Sag Harbor (shared with East Hampton). Within East Hampton, you'll find East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk, among others.

    Where should I vacation in the Hamptons?

    Where you stay in the Hamptons entirely depends on your personal style, taste, and budget. Some people consider East Hampton to be posh and upscale while Montauk has long been a laid-back surfer's haven.

    How much does it cost to rent a vacation house in the Hamptons?

    If you want to rent a private vacation house in the Hamptons, the cost will depend on factors such as house size, proximity to beach and town, added amenities such as a pool, and perhaps most importantly the time of year you plan to visit, and the day of the week.

    For example, a simple studio apartment might start at $125 per night off season, but surge to $1,500 per night for a summer weekend. A lavish mansion could cost $10,000 any time. For better deals, as well as increased availability, visit in shoulder seasons like spring or fall when the weather is still quite pleasant and there are fewer crowds and less competition for inventory. If you're set on a summer trip to the Hamptons, plan to increase your budget or consider only staying midweek for lower rates.

    Expect to pay, at minimum, a few hundred dollars for a short midweek stay off season, or a few thousand for a weekend or summer visit. Be sure to also budget extra fees for cleaning, service fees, and other additional costs imposed by vacation rentals such as Airbnb.

    What should I look for in an Airbnb?

    Consider criteria like the items we use to select homes to recommend to readers. This includes positive recent reviews (often with a minimum review score), Superhost status, homes that participate in the Enhanced Clean program, affordable price ranges (under $1,000 per night to start), as well as interesting amenities, design, and location. This might include homes with pools, beach access, free use of bikes or beach gear, outdoor seating, and thoughtful design — the very amenities you'd want when booking a beach vacation.

    What is Airbnb's cancellation policy?

    Cancellation policies on Airbnb differ from home to home and is set by each individual host. For a full breakdown of Airbnb's cancellation policies, click here.

    How do I book a home in the Hamptons on Airbnb?

    Search for homes based on location, price, date, the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, amenities, and more. Once you've found a home to suit your needs, be sure to check for cancellation policies, and review your price in pull. For more information on the full process of how to book on Airbnb, click here.

    Is it safe to stay in an Airbnb?

    According to experts, yes. If you're wondering if Airbnb is safe, private home rentals are thought to offer a higher level of safety compared to hotels. They minimize interactions with others, and Airbnb hosts are required to follow enhanced cleaning procedures

    The CDC also says travel is safe for fully vaccinated individuals.

    What is there to do in the Hamptons?

    People visit the Hamptons to go to the beach where they swim, sail, and surf; shop at designer boutiques, eat farm-to-table fare, and sip on wine at local wineries, among many other draws. 

    More of the best East Coast Airbnbs

    Airbnb
    spanLaura Begley Bloom is an award-winning editor, writer, and content strategist who is a leader in digital and print journalism. A travel expert, Laura writes for a wide range of media outlets including Forbes, CNBC, and Food & Wine, and appears regularly on television outlets ranging from the Weather Channel to CNN. Throughout her career, Laura has held senior positions such as Editor-in-Chief of Yahoo Travel, Deputy Editor of Travel + Leisure, and Chief Content Officer of Family Traveller Magazine. Journalism is part of Laura's heritage. Her great great grandfather was a Civil War correspondent for the Chicago Tribune. /span spanYou can follow Laura's travels on her Instagram a href="https://www.instagram.com/laurabegleybloom/"@laurabegleybloom/a/span spana href="https://www.businessinsider.com/insider-reviews-expertise-in-product-reviews"Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here/a./span Freelance Reporter, Insider Reviews Laura Begley Bloom is an award-winning editor, writer, and content strategist who is a leader in digital and print journalism. A travel expert, Laura writes for a wide range of media outlets including Forbes, CNBC, and Food & Wine, and appears regularly on television outlets ranging from the Weather Channel to CNN. Throughout her career, Laura has held senior positions such as Editor-in-Chief of Yahoo Travel, Deputy Editor of Travel + Leisure, and Chief Content Officer of Family Traveller Magazine. Journalism is part of Laura's heritage. Her great great grandfather was a Civil War correspondent for the Chicago Tribune.  You can follow Laura's travels on her Instagram @laurabegleybloom Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Read more Read less

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