Out & About Uncovering The Hamptons: Vanessa Gordon Dishes on Her Favorites

By Vanessa Gordon

Hamptons tastemaker and Founder of the annual Hamptons Interactive Brunch, Vanessa Gordon shares her favorite spots and things to do this summer season. Having lived in the Hamptons for three decades, with her family’s roots on the East End going back nearly 100 years, it’s no wonder Vanessa knows the Hamptons inside and out.

Vanessa is the Founder of the annual Hamptons summer event, the Hamptons Interactive Brunch. Her writing has appeared in such publications as Parents Magazine, Thrillist, Psychology Today, and has been featured in dozens of media outlets including the New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, and Reader’s Digest. She lives in East Hampton with her family. You can find Vanessa on Instagram @VanessaPGordon.

Beaches

Little Plains Beach, Southampton–I spend nearly all my summer weekdays at Little Plains while my children are at summer camp. I love walking to and from Cooper’s Beach, from Little Plains, to boost my energy.

Haven’s Beach, Sag Harbor–The best for an early morning paddle. I love to look at the yachts in the marina and take in the fresh air, first thing in the morning.

Gerard Drive Park Beach, Springs–I owe discovering this beach to my dear friend Noë. It’s a little bit of a drive coming from EH Village, but the serenity is well worth it. I typically picnic or canoe here.

Fitness & Wellness

DanceBody–I love the Founder, Katia’s classes! You don’t even realize you are working out and burning some serious calories. She also does kids and private group classes.

Hamptons Jiu Jitsu, Southampton & East Hampton–Jiu Jitsu keeps me grounded while constantly challenging me. Classes are held at both the Ross School in EH and in Southampton at Hamptons Gym Corp.

Organic Edge, Water Mill–I swear by the infrared wellness pod. I feel so rejuvenated afterward and I go regularly for their other services including cryotherapy.

Poxabogue Golf Course, Wainscott—I start most mornings, in summer, at the driving range and practice teeing off. Golf is so technical, so I always try to sneak in a private lesson every week to improve my game.

Shopping Loaves & Fishes

Cookshop, Bridgehampton–I’ve been a customer for over ten years. It is the spot to purchase a hostess gift. I usually like to pop in right before the fourth of July for their handsome tableware.

Sage and Madison, Sag Harbor–This enchanting shop is right out of a storybook. I visit whenever I have guests in town to give them something special, like local honey and exquisitely illustrated guest towels.

For the Kids

Kites of the Harbor, Sag Harbor–My son and daughter lead the way into Kites of the Harbor and love to explore their wide range of fun toys and gadgets for all ages. Very friendly staff too!

The Hamptons’ Local Libraries–My children rotate through each library in the Hamptons weekly. And with so many activities after camp and on the weekends from Lego club to story hour, there is no shortage of learning and exploration.

Sailing Lessons–I love getting my kids out on the water and no better place to learn than in Sag Harbor. Look at Sag Harbor Sailing or Breakwater Yacht Club. The Whalebone, Noyack–A great spot for picking up beach toys and treats en route to the bay. They also sell fresh chocolate truffles.

Restaurants

The Beacon, Sag Harbor–I dine early to catch some of the most beautiful sunset views around. Their lobster rigatoni is seriously satisfying, and their seared sesame crusted yellowfin tuna can’t be beat!

Carissa’s, Sag Harbor–The most photogenic bakery in the Hamptons! Order the salted sour pickled rye and the gorgeous flourless chocolate cake, you’ll thank me later. The Palm, East Hampton–I catch a late dinner at the bar and always order the Monday night salad.

Joe, the bartender, is one of the best around!

Sí Sí at EHP Resort & Marina, East Hampton–One of the top spots to host a dinner party by the water, if you are not already hosting on your. East Hampton–One of the top spots to host a dinner party by the water, if you are not already hosting on your yacht.

Suki Zuki, Water Mill–I order the teriyaki chicken salad and the tuna sandwich special roll. If I am extra hungry, I dive into the dakota roll and always pair my sushi with green tea.

Farm Stands Round Swamp Farm, Bridgehampton & East Hampton–the best food in almost every category you will ever taste. Get here early morning because lots of great picks can sell out fast!

Serene Green, Sag Harbor–my destination for produce on the way to Little Plains Beach. I also love their juices, plums, zucchini, and my children love their snoballs. This is also a great spot for gift baskets. Wherever in the Hamptons you may find yourself this summer season, know that there are not only excellent options for dining, shopping, and activities, but also many potential points of interest that are waiting to be uncovered.