What a Smarter East Hampton Weekend Actually Looks Like

Lucía Torres · 2026-08-05

When Laura Corrigan, our SVP of Marketing & PR and Executive Editor of The Agency Magazine, set out to write an insider's guide for Observer, she didn't just list her favorite spots. She mapped out 16 stops across the East End — from East Hampton through Montauk, with detours to Sag Harbor, Southampton, and Shelter Island that are worth the extra miles. ### Why the Hamptons Still Matter The Hamptons have always run on two economies — real estate and taste — and they've never really been separate. The same families who built the first summer cottages after the railroad reached the South Fork in the 1870s are the reason the region still gets written about today. That history isn't just nostalgia; it's the foundation of why the area remains one of the most sought-after summer destinations in the country. Our PR and marketing team has built a reputation as tastemakers in this world, not just participants in it. That's exactly why one of our own was tapped to write the Observer's newest guide. Media prowess, in this case, doubles as market intelligence. When you know the stories behind the properties, the restaurants, and the hidden corners, you understand the market on a deeper level. ### Local Expertise That Goes Beyond Summer With headquarters in New York City and offices planted throughout the Hamptons, The Agency's connection to the East End goes beyond the summer months. We're there in the quiet off-season, watching how the light changes and which places locals actually frequent when the crowds thin out. That year-round presence gives us insight you won't find in a typical travel piece. Laura's guide isn't just about where to eat or shop. It's about pacing your weekend so you actually enjoy it. She knows the difference between a quick stop and a place worth settling into for a few hours. ### What You'll Find in the Guide Here's a taste of what her 16 stops cover: - A mix of classic institutions and newer spots that have earned their place - Detours to Sag Harbor and Southampton that break up the drive - Shelter Island picks for when you want to slow down completely - Practical tips that save you time and frustration during peak season ### The Takeaway Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hamptons regular, the guide offers a smarter way to approach your weekend. It's not about cramming in everything — it's about choosing the right things. And that's a skill that comes from experience, not from a quick Google search. If you're planning a trip out East this season, this guide is worth your time. It's written by someone who lives and breathes this market, and it shows.