A vacation is just what the doctor ordered to relieve the stress of the pandemic-induced quarantine, but since interstate travel is risky, a staycation is the best option.
Thankfully, the East End of Long Island has much to offer during the summer. With beautiful beaches, fun attractions, and amazing restaurants, there’s always something to do.
Looking to plan a last-minute staycation out east before Labor Day? Here’s a few places that won’t break the bank.
THE HAMPTON MAID
The Hampton Maid offers comfortable lodging and delicious breakfasts. The family owned resort is situated on parklike grounds in Hampton Bays. Guests can stay in charming cottages, each with their own unique architecture and interior. Its breakfast eatery is praised by locals and is open to guests and the public. Locally sourced ingredients are used to make everything on the menu, from Western omelettes to cinnamon swirl French toast. Guests can also enjoy the pool, playground, shuffleboard court, and tons of teak furniture. 259 E. Montauk Hwy., Hampton Bays, 631-728-4166, hamptonmaid.com
THE DRAKE INN
The Drake Inn in Hampton Bays is secluded and centrally located. It’s only minutes from picturesque beaches along Dune Road. The inn is situated directly on the water and offers dock space where guests can keep their boats — the perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts and boaters. Some of the many amenities are a complimentary shuttle to the beach, outdoor pool, bicycles for a daily rate, and free parking. 16 Penny Ln., Hampton Bays, 631-728-1592, thedrakeinn.com
THE RAM’S HEAD INN
Guests at The Ram’s Head Inn have access to the resort’s small private beach on Gardiners Bay. They can enjoy the water with sailboats, paddle boards, and kayaks or relax on hammocks and Adirondack chairs. Built in 1929, the inn still maintains its charming original appearance. A local musicians concert series is currently being offered to be enjoyed online or on the patios of the Inn. Visit during weekdays for the best rates and most availability. The inn offers 17 rooms, so book quickly! 108 Ram Island Dr., Shelter Island Heights, 631-749-0811, theramsheadinn.com
THE BAY BREEZE INN
Located in Jamestown on the North Fork, the Bay Breeze Inn is near tons of restaurants and attractions, including award-winning vineyards and breweries. It’s also a quick walk from the Miamogue Point beach. Guests can choose to stay in the main house or the stand-alone cottage. The main house features six rooms, each named after a North Fork town, and the cottages offer two apartment-style units. There’s also a wraparound porch and cozy fire pit area at the main house, available to all guests. 46 Front St., South Jamesport,631-779-3454, baybreezeinnli.com
THE BAYVIEW RESORT
The Bayview Resort lives up to its name as the view overlooks the serene Tiana Bay in Hampton Bays. Guests will have easy access to Southampton town and Westhampton Beach, offering amazing restaurants and shopping. The resort’s new clubhouse features a fitness center, swimming pool, fire pit, and picnic area. Kayaks and small rowboats are also available for those who want to explore the bay. 53 W. Tiana Rd., Hampton Bays, 631-594-2370, bayviewresorthamptons.com
THE BUDGET HOST INN
The Budget Host Inn in Riverhead is known for its unbeatable price. The rooms are furnished with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, wood-effect flooring, mini fridges, and microwaves, plus free parking for cars, trucks, and RVs. Guests can spend time at the hotel’s swimming pool or at the sun terrace. They can explore the nearby Hamptons and North Fork towns or Riverhead attractions like Tanger Outlets and Splish Splash. 30 Lake Ave., Riverhead, 631-727-6200, riverheadhotel.com
THE INN SPOT ON THE BAY
The unique Inn Spot on the Bay is located on the calming shores of Shinnecock Bay in Hampton Bays. Guests have the option of staying in the main house or in one of the seaside villas. The inn also offers fantastic dining at its award-winning restaurant run by the Hamptons’ first Platinum Chef, Executive Chef Colette. There’s also the Happy as a Hamptons food truck serving drinks, clams, and oysters. 32 Lighthouse Rd., Hampton Bays, 631-728-1200, theinnspot.com
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For more guides about things to do on Long Island, visit longislandpress.com/category/everything-long-island
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