The Hamptons — the villages of the South Fork of Long Island, from Westhampton and Southampton to East Hampton, Sag Harbor and Montauk — are roughly 80 to 120 miles from Manhattan. Without traffic, the drive takes about two to two and a half hours; on a summer Friday afternoon it can take three to five hours. Leaving before noon on Friday, very early Saturday, or midweek makes a huge difference. A car service avoids the biggest Hamptons headache for visitors: beach parking, which at many beaches is restricted to residents with permits.

At a glance
Distance from Midtown About 80–120 miles, depending on the village
Typical drive (off-peak) 2–2.5 hours
Summer Friday afternoon 3–5 hours
Main routes Long Island Expressway to Route 27, or Southern State and Sunrise Highway
Best departure times Before noon Friday, early Saturday, or midweek

Routes

Most drivers take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east, then cut south to Route 27 (Sunrise Highway/Montauk Highway). Alternatively, the Southern State Parkway to Sunrise Highway works for cars. Route 27 narrows in Southampton, creating the famous “trade parade” bottleneck in summer. Read the Long Island Expressway history and Friday getaway traffic.

Village by village

  • Southampton: elegant shopping, Coopers Beach and the Southampton Arts Center.
  • Water Mill and Bridgehampton: the Parrish Art Museum, farm stands and polo in summer.
  • Sag Harbor: a historic whaling village with a harbor-front main street.
  • East Hampton: Main Beach, Guild Hall and upscale boutiques.
  • Amagansett: relaxed beaches and seafood.
  • Montauk: surf, fishing and the lighthouse. Read Montauk day trip.

Beach parking

Many Hamptons beaches require resident or seasonal permits to park, with steep fines. Being dropped off and picked up by a chauffeur solves the problem neatly.

Wineries

The South Fork has several wineries, and the North Fork has dozens more. Read North Fork wine country.

Alternatives

Buses, the Long Island Rail Road and seaplanes or helicopters to East Hampton are popular, but a car gives door-to-door flexibility, especially with luggage, children or pets. MacArthur Airport in Islip can also be a gateway. Read MacArthur Airport guide.

Book

Our long-distance car service and hourly service cover Hamptons trips from Manhattan and New Jersey.