The best Airbnbs in the Hamptons
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- Located at the East End of Long Island roughly 2.5 hours from New York City, the Hamptons has quite the reputation. This string of little beach towns is known for big money and oceanfront mansions. But you don't need to be a celebrity to vacation here.
- Airbnb may offer a better option right now than hotels for travelers who want to book a welcoming private home and practice social distancing since you can book an entire home to yourself.
- While the Hamptons has plenty of million-dollar rentals, we looked for top-rated Airbnbs throughout the area that won't break the bank and range from $100 to $492 per night.
- Read all Business Insider travel reviews.
My husband and I met at a beach bonfire in the Hamptons on a dreamy summer night under a wide sky full of stars. We had both spent the majority of our twenties and thirties doing share houses and pooling our money with friends to rent a home together in the Hamptons. Our experience was the antithesis of the big-moneyed, celebrity-studded reputation that has more recently put the Hamptons on the map.
Instead, we rented little beach cottages and ramshackle farmhouses and enjoyed the laid-back charms of this string of little towns stretching roughly 50 miles from Westhampton to Montauk on the tip of Long Island. All the while we dreamed of owning our own beach house one day.
Eventually, we pooled our savings together, and thanks to the confluence of a recession and low mortgage rates, we were actually able to buy our dream house: a beach cottage built by an artist in 1969 set in the Amagansett Dunes. Our unique neighborhood is literally built into the dunes that line the Atlantic Ocean.
We never want to leave, but in the summer, we rent out our house on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Being a host myself has given me a unique peek into the Airbnb rental market of the Hamptons. I spend hours sleuthing out the competition and comparing and contrasting offerings. I know the places to go if you want to be near the best beaches, the prime spots for surfers, the locations to check out if you love antiquing, and the best areas for foodies.
I am also well-versed in amenities that truly set listings apart. We even installed a classic cedar hot tub that feels like you could be at a spa in Finland or an onsen in Japan partly for our own pleasure, but also as an added perk for rental guests.
Traveling elsewhere on the East Coast?- The best Airbnbs on the Jersey Shore
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- The best Airbnbs in the Hudson Valley
- The best Airbnbs in Rhode Island
For anyone who is concerned about whether Airbnbs are safe, you can rest easy. Experts say it's safer to stay at an Airbnb — versus a hotel — since you won't be interacting with other guests and can easily social distance. Plus, Airbnb has implemented the new Cleaning Protocol, which outlines guidelines on cleaning procedures, approved disinfectants, personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, and waiting periods between guests. Hosts can also use a Booking Buffer that provides a 72-hour vacancy period between rentals. Some hosts are outlining their cleaning policies on their listings (which we note below).
Granted, without a vaccine, there is no guarantee of safety and cleaning practices can vary widely. So it's smart to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and to practice safety measures like washing your hands, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a mask when you're traveling.
That said, for city dwellers looking to get away for a beach weekend, the Hamptons offers an idyllic escape. I combed through thousands of Airbnb listings to select homes that are well-located, appealing, clean, and reasonably priced.
It's no secret that the sky is the limit when it comes to rentals in the Hamptons and you can easily spend upwards of $1,000 a night in the peak summer season for a beach house near the ocean. In fact, the average price per night during high season is a whopping $800.
But if you're looking for the simpler charms of the area I found so endearing in my early days of visiting, I found plenty of properties that are suitable for mere mortals. I chose listings 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 in shared spaces.
- Each house is priced between $100 and $492 per night.
- All are highly-rated Airbnb listings in the Hamptons with a review score of 4.4 or higher.
- Each Airbnb property has a great design scheme and appealing features, from fireplaces to pools.
While this article includes properties with nightly rates under $500, be aware that this is an average, and rates can vary widely depending on season. Hamptons rentals also often come with minimum stays and other restrictions about groups of single people renting together, so it is a smart idea to contact the host for more information prior to booking.
These are 12 of the best Airbnbs in the Hamptons, ranging from $100 to $492, and sorted by price from low to high.Safe haven with a pool in Quogue, $100
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 since it's not in the heart of the scene.
This five-bedroom home has a refreshing California-boho style, complete with a blackboard where you can write up the day's menu. There's an enormous deck for grilling and even a pool. There's a nature reserve right nearby where you can go bird watching.
One recent reviewer said, "This house was perfect for a family vacation. Lots of bedrooms and plenty of space by the pool and on the deck to just relax. The house was very clean and the owners were always available to answer any questions or concerns. Not far from restaurants and beaches."
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in September 2020, though availability is subject to change.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with excellent ratings; several guests marked it as "sparkling clean."
Cozy cottage with a pool in Sag Harbor, $150
It's rare to find such an adorable cottage a short stroll from the village of Sag Harbor at such an affordable price. And when you throw in a pool, it's no wonder this one-bedroom property — run by a Superhost — is in high demand.
Sag Harbor is a walkable old whaling town that is lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants. It's also a year-round destination. This tiny cottage (750 square feet) is simple and rustic with painted white pine walls and wood floors. But with a gorgeous pool just out back, we doubt you'll be spending too much time inside.
Despite its smaller size, this listing is still suitable for families. A recent reviewer said, "Stayed at Andy's cottage with my wife and our toddler for two nights and we couldn't be happier. There's a full kitchen in the cottage to keep food refrigerated and cook meals for our baby, and washer dryer if needed. In addition to the main bedroom there's a smaller bedroom with a single bed, which was a nice surprise."
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in November 2020, though availability is subject to change. This host offers 19% off if you stay a week and a 35% monthly discount.
Rating: 4.41
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with excellent ratings, and recent reviewers commented on its cleanliness.
Sunny cottage near Downtown East Hampton, $174
Many people consider East Hampton 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 stylish boutiques and restaurants. It's also an easy stroll to stunning ocean and bay beaches. The cottage itself is full of light and has soaring ceilings. It's not fancy, but people usually pay a much steeper price to find prime real estate like this.
This listing has limited availability until September 2020. This host offers 10% off if you stay a week and a 15% monthly discount.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with excellent ratings. Eight recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Vintage bungalow in Montauk, $220
Montauk is a fishing town that is also known for its lively surf scene, thanks to the great break at Ditch Plains beach. This 1950's two-bedroom beach bungalow has a cool vibe that will appeal to surfers and creative types. It's got a grill out back for cooking your own fish, which you can buy at nearby markets from fishermen who caught it the same morning. The house is located near the water and within driving distance of downtown Montauk, so you've got easy access to all the action.
The house attracts many repeat guests. "As soon as we checked in to Lyndsey's place I was on Airbnb hoping to book a second trip back this summer," said one recent reviewer. "Her place is a true home away from home. So clean, quiet, and comfortable. Exactly the safe break we needed."
This Airbnb currently has limited availability for bookings until September 2020, though availability is subject to change.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host mentions no longer stocking shared food amenities that are usually provided (used spices, oils) due to COVID-19. The owner is also a Superhost with excellent ratings and 14 recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Honeycomb cottage in Southampton, $220
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 the long Peconic Bay Beach is just one block away. Relaxation is encouraged — there's even a little koi pond with a waterfall. However, note that children and pets are not allowed.
In case you needed any more convincing, the house has received a perfect five-star rating from all of its 32 guests who have left reviews.
This Airbnb has some availability for bookings in July 2020 and even more available days beginning in the fall.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with a perfect 5.0 rating and 12 recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Chic home in Hampton Bays, $229
Hampton Bays is sometimes considered the un-Hamptons. Even though it has "Hampton" in the name, it is less pretentious and more easy-going than some of the other nearby communities. It's also a little closer to New York City.
This three-bedroom space is technically an apartment that is attached to a house, but it has its own separate entrance and garden, so it feels very private. There are bikes for you to use, and it is easily accessible to beaches, restaurants, and more.
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in July 2020.
Rating: 4.86
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with excellent ratings; 14 recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Meadow cottage in Bridgehampton, $299
Bridgehampton is centrally located and known for its many antique stores and lovely restaurants that line its Main Street. It also has more big-name storefronts (Kmart, Staples, Williams-Sonoma) than some of the other Hamptons towns.
This one-bedroom cottage is located right in the heart of Bridgehampton on a secluded property that's convenient to Main Street. For wine lovers, the well-regarded Wolffer Vineyard is right nearby, and it's just a five-minute drive to the ocean. The cottage itself has tons of charm and is located on 1.25 acres.
Reviewers have great things to say about this cottage that has a nearly perfect rating. "Beautiful cottage in a beautiful spot. The cottage was perfect for a lovely weekend away," wrote a recent guest.
This Airbnb has some availability beginning in August 2020 and beyond. The host offers 5% off if you stay a week and a 5% monthly discount.
Rating: 4.97
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with nearly perfect ratings and 14 recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Modern house with pool in Sag Harbor, $264
Houses in or near the village of Sag Harbor are usually set on small plots and don't have much space. That's not the case with this open and airy modern three-bedroom house with soaring, double-height ceilings, massive windows, and a beautiful 60-foot-long gunite pool. The house is also filled with cool designer furniture.
Reviewers love this house and its owner's taste level. "Absolutely fantastic house — everything was as described. Amazing location close to the center of town," wrote one guest. "The house was designed and decorated with great taste. The outdoor area and pool were great, would totally come back."
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in September 2020, though availability is subject to change. There's a minimum stay of two weeks.
Rating: 4.81
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with excellent ratings.
Studio with a pool in Sagaponack, $311
Ritzy Sagaponack is filled with massive mansions set on former potato fields near some of the most gorgeous beaches in the area. This little one-bedroom studio offers a level of affordability that is usually unheard of in Sagaponack. Though the simple and clean house is set on a larger property, it has a high degree of privacy. A downside: There are other accommodations on the same property and if you want to use the pool, you'll need to share it and you'll need to pay extra to have it heated. There's also a seasonal hot tub.
Despite the shared pool, guests are very happy here. "Kent's cottage is such a lovely and quaint place to stay, with a light/airy (as well as clean) space inside, and grounds outside that are beautiful. I loved the balcony in the cottage with colorful flowers overlooking the expansive nature of the full property," wrote one recent reviewer. "Kent himself was also lovely — a knowledgeable, helpful, respectful, and friendly host."
This Airbnb has no availability for bookings until September 2020, but most days in the fall are up for grabs.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with a perfect 5.0 rating; 11 recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Guesthouse in Southampton Village, $384
Given that it's part of Airbnb Plus, you know this property will be great, thanks to its one-of-a-kind design details, responsive host, and extra creature comforts. The one-bedroom cottage is located right in Southampton Village, which means you'll have great access to shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and more.
A staggering 290 guests have left reviews and they are all in love with this guesthouse. "Jen's place was perfect," says a recent reviewer. "It was spotless and had all the essentials. She was very accommodating and easy to communicate with. The home is centrally located and walking distance from just about everything. Wouldn't change a thing, will definitely be back!"
This Airbnb has availability in July 2020 and beyond.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The house is part of the Enhanced Clean initiative and the home is an Airbnb Plus property.
Surf cottage in Amagansett, $428
With its mid-century 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 located a short walk from a great beach. High-tech entertainment amenities feature heavily. 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 on the backyard that just beckons you to chill out and watch the clouds.
Reviews rave about the property and guests cite the house's great light and excellent location. "Beautiful space in the most perfect location," said one reviewer. "Came for five days and wanted to stay five more. Literally next door to the best places for lobster rolls. Walk to beach and a very lovely, private neighborhood. Can't wait to return."
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in September 2020. This host offers 10% off if you stay a week and a 20% monthly discount.
Rating: 4.93
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The house is part of the Enhanced Clean initiative and the owner is a Superhost.
Cottage near the beach in Sag Harbor, $492
This modern three-bedroom beach house in Sag Harbor is right near a long and lovely beach. A fully equipped kitchen that's perfect for home chefs, great coffee table books, and plenty of plants make the space feel like home.
Reviewers love the look and the details in this designer house. "This house is by far the greatest Airbnb I have ever stayed at," says one guest. "The attention to detail and thoughtful touches throughout the house differentiate it from all other stays. Riley has literally thought of every possible thing you could need to make it feel even more at home than you would in your own house. The decor/furniture of the home is so stylish, modern, and of high quality, it feels like you're in an AD magazine! Tons of light and everything is high-tech/easy to use. Definitely stay here, you will not regret it!"
This Airbnb has availability beginning in September 2020 and beyond. This host offers 2% off if you stay a week and a 5% monthly discount.
Rating: 4.97
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with a near-perfect rating and 11 recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
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