Southampton, NY offers outdoor lovers ocean beaches, scenic trails, paddling bays, and birding spots on Long Island’s East End. Ideal from late spring to early fall, it’s a versatile outdoor destination for beachcombing, hiking, biking, and fishing.
Southampton, NY offers outdoor lovers ocean beaches, scenic trails, paddling bays, and birding spots on Long Island’s East End. Ideal from late spring to early fall, it’s a versatile outdoor destination for beachcombing, hiking, biking, and fishing.
Outdoor Adventure in Southampton, New York
Southampton, located on Long Island’s East End, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking coastal beauty and varied recreational activities. Renowned for its pristine beaches, protected natural areas, and vibrant village atmosphere, Southampton provides year-round opportunities for adventure.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Southampton, New York special.
★ 7.2⌖ 27.66 milesEnjoy a visit to Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, CT. With its 2-mile sandy beach, it's ideal for swimming and birdwatching. Perfect for families, the park offers trails and picnicking facilities. Best visited in summer, it's a popular coastal destination.
★ 7⌖ 28.82 milesEasyExplore the Elizabeth B. Karter Watch Rock Preserve in Old Lyme, CT. Ideal for birdwatching and photography, this easy route offers scenic views along coastal trails. Enjoy solitude in a peaceful setting with diverse ecosystems, best visited in spring and fall.
★ 6⌖ 30.01 milesEasyRocky Neck State Park in Niantic, CT offers Easy beach relaxation and family-friendly activities like swimming, hiking, and birdwatching. Visit in spring and summer for a scenic, serene experience with views of Long Island Sound. This park can get busy in summer.
★ 7.5⌖ 31.60 milesExplore the charming Thimble Islands off Branford, CT. Ideal for kayaking and wildlife watching, these islands offer tidal views and historical allure. Access by boat only; best visited in spring or fall for a serene experience.
★ 7⌖ 32.08 milesVisit Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT, featuring the historic Eolia Mansion and vibrant gardens. Enjoy garden walks, bird watching, and coastal views, with accessibility for families. Best visited in spring and summer for peak blooms.
★ 4.5⌖ 34.23 milesEasyExplore Lavender Pond Farm in Killingworth, CT, offering easy nature walks through picturesque lavender fields. Great for family-friendly visits, photography, and learning about lavender use in seasonal workshops.
★ 6.2⌖ 35.91 milesExplore Bluff Point State Park in Groton, Connecticut, with over 800 acres of coastal trails. Enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking along its serene beaches and diverse ecosystem. Best visited in Spring and Fall for vibrant views and a peaceful retreat.
★ 4.5⌖ 39.33 milesExplore Peace Sanctuary in Mystic, CT, a serene woodland perfect for hiking and bird watching. Enjoy an easy stroll amidst mountain laurels, especially vibrant in spring. Ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
★ 7.8⌖ 39.35 milesEasyExplore Napatree Point Conservation Area in Westerly, RI, a serene coastal landscape perfect for birdwatching and nature walks. Enjoy kayaking in calm waters. Best visited in spring and fall for vibrant wildlife viewing. Easy access and quiet year-round.
★ 7.8⌖ 39.70 milesEasyExplore the Stony Brook Reservation in Boston with its network of easy trails perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Enjoy a peaceful environment and historic features like stone bridges, all within easy reach from the city.
★ 6.8⌖ 39.92 milesExplore the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic, CT, known for birdwatching and educational programs. Enjoy serene trails through diverse ecosystems. Ideal for spring and fall visits, this family-friendly spot offers quiet year-round exploration.
★ 7.8⌖ 40.79 milesExplore the tidal island of Charles Island near Milford, CT, accessible by a tombolo during low tide. Known for birdwatching and historical lore, it offers unique views and a quiet retreat for nature lovers.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Southampton, New York, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Southampton, New York.
⌖ 0.3 miWeekly drag-dining performances in Southampton—friday and saturday evenings and sunday brunch—this guide distills what to expect, where to check in, and the ticketing tiers that shape the experience.
⌖ 1.7 miAn hour-long evening paddle along the Peconic River beneath the rising moon; this guide distills what to expect, what’s provided, and how to plan.
⌖ 5.5 miA one-hour SUP rental from P & L Watersports lets paddlers of every skill level get on the water—this guide explains what to bring, board options, and weight limits to plan your hour afloat.
⌖ 6.1 miA customizable, two-hour afternoon cruise from Hampton Bays that blends coastal wildlife, secluded sandbars and local maritime history—a concise field guide to what to expect.
⌖ 6.1 miA short, privately chartered boat tour out of Hampton Bays for relaxed cruising, coastal sightseeing, or an intimate celebration led by an experienced local crew.
⌖ 7.6 miPersonalized, on-water instruction in Sag Harbor with 2- or 3-hour private lessons—this guide distills schedules, pricing, and what to expect so you can book and prepare with confidence.
⌖ 8.4 miTwo- to eight-hour day sails depart from Long Wharf in Sag Harbor aboard a 41' Lagoon catamaran for swimming, paddleboarding and cruising past the Hamptons’ coastal homes.
⌖ 9.1 miA private, luxury cruise out of Sag Harbor with options from two to eight hours and capacity for six; this guide distills rates, what to bring, and what to expect on the water.
⌖ 9.1 miA private, two-hour yacht charter on the Wind Dancer — a Nautor-built Swan — offering turnkey amenities and water toys for up to six passengers; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 9.1 miPrivate, instructor-led sailing lessons in Sag Harbor tailored to your goals; sessions run 3–8 hours and focus on hands-on, on‑water skill building.
⌖ 9.1 miPrivate two- to eight-hour charters for up to six guests, with set rates — a concise guide to what to expect and what to bring.
⌖ 9.2 miA full‑day paddleboard and kayak rental from P & L Watersports that gives paddlers of every skill level eight hours to explore Hampton Bays, whether chasing waves, practicing SUP yoga, or simply cruising the estuaries.
⌖ 13.1 miA month-long stand-up paddleboard rental from Paddle Diva for skilled paddlers who want uninterrupted access to local waters while following strict safety and equipment rules.
⌖ 13.1 miA focused guide to Paddle Diva’s Single Kayak Rental—what to expect on the water, the skills the operator requires, and the safety kit you must bring.
⌖ 13.1 miPaddle Diva’s tandem kayak rental lets two experienced paddlers take a tandem kayak out for a self-guided outing lasting roughly two to six hours; this guide distills the policy, safety requirements, and what to expect on the water.
Make the most of your visit to Southampton, New York with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Southampton, New York hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Southampton, New York during the iconic Southampton Marathon & Half Marathon. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Southampton, New York during the iconic Southampton Arts & Craft Show. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Southampton, New York during the iconic Hamptons International Film Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Southampton, New York during the iconic Southampton Farmers Market. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Southampton, New York during the iconic Annual Southampton Spring & Fall Fairs. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Southampton, New York is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Sleeping Giant State Park in Connecticut features a series of rugged hiking trails over a prominent traprock mountain ridge, offering spectacular views and a unique natural landscape.
Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is a coastal haven in Rhode Island offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife watching opportunities amidst salt ponds and maritime shrublands.
Burlingame State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination in Rhode Island, known for its expansive forests and tranquil lakeside setting, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Pachaug State Forest, located in southeastern Connecticut, is the state's largest state forest, offering a range of recreational activities including hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
Reserve accommodations well in advance for summer and weekends.
Pack sunscreen and insect repellent for coastal trails and paddling.
Check tide schedules when planning beach or paddling trips.
Bike helmets are recommended and some areas have limited bike lanes.
Respect local fishing regulations and protected wildlife areas.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Southampton, New York. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.