- Located at the East End of Long Island, roughly 2.5 hours from New York City, the Hamptons is made up of a string of beach towns known for big money and oceanfront mansions.
- But you don’t need to be a celebrity to vacation here; we found top-rated Airbnbs that range from $100 to $650 per night.
- Experts also say that Airbnb may be safer than hotels right now because the private vacation rentals limit interactions with others and promote social distancing.
- Read more: Everything to know about vacation rentals, COVID-19 safety, and the best places in the US
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 pooling our money with friends on share homes in the Hamptons. Our frugal experience was the antithesis of the big-moneyed, celebrity-studded reputation that has more recently put the Hamptons on the map.
All the while, we dreamed of owning our own beach house one day within this string of towns that stretch roughly 50 miles from Westhampton to Montauk on the tip of Long Island.
Eventually, 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 vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Being a host myself has given me a unique peek into the vacation rental market. I spend hours sleuthing out the competition and 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?
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Knowing a thing or two about standout listings, I now readily share that advice with those looking to rent a Hamptons home as well, by combing through thousands of Airbnb listings to select those that are well-located, appealing, clean, and reasonably priced. In other words, my very competition.
And for anyone concerned about whether Airbnbs are safe, you can rest easy. Experts say it's safer to stay at an Airbnb than a hotel since you won't interact with other guests and can easily social distance. Plus, Airbnb implemented a new Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which outlines guidelines on cleaning procedures, approved disinfectants, personal protective equipment, and waiting periods between guests.
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 practice safety measures like washing hands, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a mask. Additionally, consider your own level of risk, and whether you're traveling from or to a hotspot, so as not to increase the rate of infection.
But if you're looking for the simpler charms of an area I've always found so endearing, below are plenty of properties that are also suitable for mere mortals. It's no secret that the sky is the limit when it comes to Hamptons vacation rentals. You can easily spend upwards of $1,000 a night in the peak summer. I suggest considering a visit in shoulder seasons when both prices and temperatures dip, but before many businesses close up shop for winter. You'll experience fewer crowds and better inventory, too.
I chose Airbnbs in the Hamptons 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 $650 per night.
- All are highly-rated Airbnb listings in the Hamptons with a review score of 4.4 or higher.
- Each property has a grand 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 fluctuate. Many rentals also come with minimum stays and restrictions about groups, so it is a smart idea to contact the host for more information prior to booking. It's also worth noting that cleaning and service fees vary widely, especially post-pandemic, with strict cancellation policies.
These are some of the best Airbnbs in the Hamptons, sorted by price from low to high.
Chic apartment in Hampton Bays, $193
Book this apartment starting at $193 per night
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 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 October.
Rating: 4.83
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the owner is a Superhost with excellent ratings and recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Cozy cottage with a pool in Sag Harbor, $195
Book this cottage starting at $195 per night
It's rare to find such an adorable cottage that's not only a short stroll from the village of Sag Harbor, but comes with pool access at such an affordable price.
Sag Harbor is a walkable old whaling town 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 mid-September 2020, and the 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, $199
Book this cottage starting at $199 per night
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.
This listing has limited availability until October 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 and recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Honeycomb cottage in Southampton, $206
Book this guest house starting at $206 per night
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 - 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's even a deck and little koi pond with a waterfall. However, note that children and pets are not allowed.
This Airbnb has some availability for bookings starting in September.
Rating: 4.96
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with strong ratings and recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Vintage bungalow in Montauk, $269
Book this bungalow starting at $269 per night
Montauk is a fishing town that is also known for its lively surf scene, thanks to the great break at Ditch Plains beach. This 1950s 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, 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 recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Meadow cottage in Bridgehampton, $284
Book this cottage starting at $284 per night
Bridgehampton is centrally located and known for the 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 in the heart of town 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 with a King-sized bed, kitchenette, and patio overlooking tranquil views spread over 1.25 acres.
This Airbnb is currently not available until January 2021, though that is subject to change.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with nearly perfect ratings and recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Tiny home in Southampton Village, $339
Book this tiny home starting at $339 per night
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.
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 September 2020 and beyond.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Contemporary home near the beach in Sag Harbor, $379
Book this contemporary home starting at $379 per night
This modern three-bedroom beach house in Sag Harbor is near a long and lovely beach. A fully equipped kitchen is perfect for home chefs, and great coffee table books and plenty of plants make the space feel like home.
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.
This Airbnb has availability beginning in November 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 recent guests said the house is sparkling clean.
Surf house in Amagansett, $385
Book this surf house starting at $385 per night
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.
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings beginning in 2021.
Rating: 4.93
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with strong ratings and recent guests said the house is clean and tidy.
Safe haven with a pool in Quogue, $650
Book this beach haven starting at $650 per night
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.
This Airbnb is currently available for bookings at the end of September or early 2021.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost with excellent ratings and several guests marked it as sparkling clean.