About Southampton Long Island! Beaches and Traffic Laws

Photo of Southampton Long Island
Main Street. Southampton NY. iStock

Be Careful! Southampton Traffic Laws are Tough!

Lisa was heading south towards Cooper’s Beach on Southampton’s Main Street when she noticed a store that was displaying some items that interested her. There was a parking space nearby and with her left signal blinking, Lisa proceeded to turn into the spot, but she had to go over the double-yellow line to do so. Normally, this would be OK in most other parts of Long Island, but in this town, watch out!

As soon as Lisa pulled into the space, a police officer approached her to advise her that she made an illegal turn. Lisa told the officer that she was turning to get into the parking spot, but he didn’t care and reiterated that this was an illegal turn. He said that it may be legal in other parts of Long Island, but not in Southampton. Fortunately, knowing that she was from out of town, he let her go with a warning.

No doubt the traffic laws in Southampton are strict due to the large number of tourists that come, especially in the summer to take advantage of the beautiful beaches so you need to be vigilant when in this town.

To learn more about the traffic regulations in Southampton, especially moving violations, you can visit their official website here, but if you find you are in trouble, feel free to reach out to Patricia Scanlon to help you.

But don’t be dismayed coming to Southampton. The beaches are beautiful and attract folks from all over, so let’s learn about the town and what Southampton has to offer!

Who Lives in Southampton, New York?

The town is located near the southern tip of Long Island, called the South Fork. It is a small but vibrant community, with a median household income of just over $100,000. This is likely related to the town’s high degree of affluence with popular celebrities having homes there. Rachel Ray, Kelly Ripa, and Howard Stern to name a few.

How Did Southampton Get Its Name?

There are several theories. The most widely accepted one is that the town’s name is a tribute to the Earl of Southampton, England. This nobleman was a close friend of the colonies during the Revolutionary War. Another theory suggests that the original settlers named the town after the English port city of Southampton. Yet another suggestion is that the town’s name was originally “South Fork” because it was situated on the South Fork of Long Island’s Peconic River.

Where Are the Best Places to Stay in Southampton?

When considering which hotel or Airbnb rental to book, there are a few factors to keep in mind. 

First, you’ll want a place that is convenient to the things you want to do and see. In addition, you’ll want to find a hotel or vacation rental that is easy to get to. Ideally, you’ll find a location that has easy access to public transportation. Local transportation is provided by Hampton Jitney. More on this as you read on.

If you’re planning a vacation with your children, you’ll want to find a place that is affordable and kid-friendly. Ideally, you’ll find a hotel or rental that offers special amenities and activities for kids.

Taking your dog (or dogs)? No warriors, here is a list of dog-friendly hotels in Southampton.

What Should I Know About Southampton Culture?

Southampton Long Island is home to a diverse community and the town has a number of annual events and festivals. These celebrations are a great way to learn more about Southampton culture. 

Here’s a list of some of the most popular and biggest events in Southampton each year.

  • Southampton Boat Show: A must-see event for boating enthusiasts. The show features the latest boat models, accessories, and technology. The event is family-friendly and is held in October. 
  • Shinnecock Powwow: A celebration of Native American culture, heritage, and music. The event also includes traditional dance competitions. It is held at Southampton Writers Conference: This is an annual conference featuring talks, panel discussions, and workshops. The event attracts top authors, artists, and academics. It is held in October. 
  • Southampton Fall Festival: A popular three-day event featuring arts, crafts, and music. The festival is held in November. 
  • Hampton Jazz Festival: An annual event that features a variety of musical performances. The event is held in November.

What Should I Know About Transportation?

The Hampton Jitney offers bus service between Southampton and Manhattan. There is one bus each way daily. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. 

The Southampton Ferry is a passenger ferry that runs between Southampton and its neighboring town, East Hampton. The ferry operates year-round. It runs every 90 minutes between 7:30 a.m. and midnight. 

The Hampton Ferry is a passenger ferry that runs between Hampton and its neighboring town, Sag Harbor. The ferry operates during the summer and fall. It runs every 90 minutes between 7:30 a.m. and midnight.

What Should I Know About Southampton Real Estate?

Home prices are typically much higher than the national average. The median home sales price is $1,064,000. The majority of Southampton’s real estate are single-family homes, but there are a few high-rise condo complexes and a few waterfront estates, and the town’s waterfront properties are highly desirable. 

How Do I Find Out About Local Events and Festivals in Southampton?

Shinnecock_Hills Southampton LI
Shinnecock Hills Gold Course Southampton LI Wikimedia Creative Commons

There are lots of exciting events and festivals happening in Southampton Long Island. Visit the Visit Southampton website to see a full list of events. You can also find information about special events in the East End on the Visit Long Island website. Visit the Hampton Jitney website to see the full events calendar. You can also find a list of upcoming events near you on the Visit East End website.

How Do I Find Out About Local Attractions in Southampton?

There are lots of attractions in Southampton Long Island. Visit the Visit Southampton website to find a full list of attractions. You can also find information about local attractions on the Visit East End website. Visit the Hampton Jitney website to learn more about attractions near you. You can also find a list of attractions in Southampton on the Visit Long Island website.

How Do I Find Out About Things to Do with Kids in Southampton?

Southampton is a great place for families. There are lots of fun things to do in Southampton with kids. Visit the Visit Southampton website to find out about kid-friendly attractions and activities. You can also find information about fun family events in the East End on the Visit Long Island website Visit the Hampton Jitney website to see a full list of family attractions. You can also find a list of fun things to do with kids in Southampton on the Visit Long Island website.

How Do I Find Out About Shopping?

There are several great shopping destinations. These include several shopping malls and upscale boutique shops, but be careful. When in town, obey all traffic laws or you will get pulled over.

What About the Beaches?

No doubt the beaches are a main reason why so many people come to the Hamptons in the summer, and Southampton’s Cooper’s Beach is no exception. If you are coming from western Long Island or New York City, give yourself a good four-hour leeway because as you approach these favorite vacation beach spots, traffic will build up on Route 27, otherwise known as Sunrise Highway, but efforts to ease the traffic congestion are underway.

Have Fun!

And there you have it! The who, what, and when of Southampton, with an added touch of traffic vigilance. Don’t want to drive? Have a boat? Go for it! But for the rest of us, enjoy the town’s shopping and laying out on the beaches. It will be just one more item you can cross off your bucket list!

 

 

 

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