It’s been a sizzling season of fun in the sun at the Hamptons. Known worldwide as a destination for ultra-wealthy vacationers, you wouldn’t think it - but there’s more to Long Island than finding the best Hamptons store.

Your friends may be fooled that shopping in Hamptons is the key to enjoying your relaxing East End vacation. But this is a destination that has so much more to offer, and there are oodles of stunning secret spots just waiting to be found.

Whether it’s been on your travel list for years, or you’ve visited this beach-town dotted peninsula time and time again. You can’t say you’ve truly seen the Hamptons until you’ve ticked these secret destinations off your list.

So take notes and prepare to flex to your rich friends, here’s the secret guide to the Hamptons.

From Farm to Fork

Long Island isn’t the typical place you’d expect to find a thriving farming community. You may be surprised to hear of the veritable cornucopia of hyper-local produce ripe for the picking. With orchards galore, you’ve never tasted an apple as delicious in all your life - I promise.

Get Involved

It’s not just about farming - there’s more than meets the eye at these orchards. With activities for everyone: from pick-your-own produce and kids puppet shows to botanic ceramic pottery and floral arrangement workshops. I recommend getting your hands dirty and picking your own produce - apples, berries, beets, greens, tomatoes, and more (oh my!).

Enjoy a Meal

If you’d prefer to sit back and enjoy a farm-forward menu, try sampling the refreshing bounty available at the non-profit Amber Waves Farm Market and Café.

Straight From The Stall

It’s not just about clothes shopping in Hamptons, there are stalls loaded with fresh produce for you to pick up and take home with you. In fact, instead of looking for the best Hamptons store - why not see if you can find the best farm stall? A fun activity for families, couples or friends.

Hidden Beaches

With the public beaches packed full of families, it’s time to look for somewhere a little quieter. We’re thinking somewhere that isn’t loaded with designer boutique Manhattan style beach outfits and swimwear.

Although many of the private beaches are overloaded too, here’s a couple of more low-key sandy options for you to dig your toes into.

Hither Hills Beach

Avoid the over-crowded popular spots on Long Beach by heading out Montauk ways to Hither Hills Beach. The locals describe it as ‘charming’ and ‘simpler’, with the barbeques and picnic tables of its neighboring state park being a popular site for campers. The white sandy beach and clear waters of Hither Hills Beach will only set you back $10 for parking, or $35 for campers.

Point Lookout Beach

This hidden gem is nestled on the east end of Long Beach and is perfect for beating the crowds. Be sure to pack your own lunch, as there are not many shops around.

Unless you consider ice cream to be lunch, in which case you’ll be happy to see the ice-cream truck that parks nearby. Parking is $25 for non-residents and ‘walk in’ fees apply.

Retail Therapy

It wouldn’t be a true East End adventure without a good dose of retail therapy. Although going shopping in Hamptons is notoriously expensive, there are a couple of gems that shouldn’t be missed.

Carefully Curated

We may be miles away from midtown designer boutique Manhattan, but lucky for you the best Hamptons store Tenet is dripping with finely curated collections of opulent style.

Settled in Easthampton, Tenet is a lifestyle brand with the goal of curating collections from fashion labels new and old. From clothes to hand-made surfboards and art, you can enjoy free same-day Hamptons delivery on all orders over $100. So even if you’re out on the farm, a fresh outfit can be delivered straight to your hotel in time for dinner.

Stretch Your Legs

With several state parks to visit, there’s a lot on offer other than the beach. You can take peace in knowing that while most vacationers will be hitting the shops and restaurants, you’ll have free reign of magnificent and pristine forests

Camp Hero State Park

Encompassing 415-acres of heavily wooded forest park, featuring an expansive Atlantic Ocean beachfront and a historical military installation. Camp Hero boasts an extensive hiking, biking, and horse-riding trail system for you to explore freely.

Hither Hills State Park

While you’re visiting the beach, may as well get amongst the wilderness in the Hither Hills state park too. Marvel at the unique dune views of the Walking Dunes Trail (there’s free parking on the street bordering the trail). Or you could also park for free at the end of Navy Road and enjoy the easy trail with its mix of forest and ocean views. Be prepared for mosquitos.