You may have heard that the Hamptons boast world class beaches, and if so, you heard right. The sugar sand ocean beaches are glorious, but there are miles and miles of coastline in the Hamptons, and not all of it is on the Atlantic Ocean. The South Fork is a peninsula dotted with creeks, marshes, ponds and estuaries to enjoy a multitude of watersports away from the fabulous ocean. Fishing, kayaking, motorboating, sailing, paddleboarding and just plain old swimming have created favorite memories of a Hampton summer for locals and visitors alike.

You can have your pick of public Hamptons beaches, but we suggest you visit these local favorites. Chances are they will become yours too.

On Peconic Bay. Great for the kids. Walk to the Shinnecock Canal and boat basin. The Meschutt Beach Hut Raw Bar & Grill is open for breakfast, lunch & dinner featuring a diverse menu including seafood specialties, live enterainment and unique settings.

Wide ocean beach near Shinnecock Inlet and the commercial fishing station (fresh seafood on the grill maybe?), offering parking & a pavilion with restrooms & concessions.

Access the Atlantic and Moriches Bay. Shallow bayside bathing great for kids.

Access the Atlantic and Moriches Bay. Shallow bayside bathing great for kids.

Plenty of parking with a nice pavilion, concessions and a playground area.

Plenty of parking with a nice pavilion, concessions and a playground area.

Large beach area with access on the northside to Mecox Bay.

Large beach area with access on the northside to Mecox Bay.

Party boat fishing at Shinnecock Inlet in Hampton Bays.

Local boat rentals. Center console and open cockpit fishing boats.