5 Best Hotels in Southampton, Long Island

This historic home in the heart of Southampton Village fulfils many a wish list, with its central location and quintessential colonial style, from the wide clapboards outside to the wood beams and four-poster beds within. The name dates it as accurately as possible, and it sits on an earlier cellar dating to 1648. Antiques, Asian rugs, and rich fabrics abound, and public areas include an informal card room, a more formal dining room, and an even more formal parlor. Some rooms are elegantly rustic; others are simply elegant, and all are true to the age and style of the house. Children under 12 are welcome in the cottages, which also feature kitchens. Breakfast, afternoon tea, and unlimited soft drinks and beach parking passes in season are included.

Be prepared to be spoiled silly at this gorgeous bed-and-breakfast owned by Christopher Allen, who worked as a butler before opening this with his wife Kimberly. Rooms are decorated to represent the estates the owner worked in. Home-cooked hot breakfast includes a frittata with vegetables from the garden and Kim's delicious banana-stuffed French toast.

With some villas sleeping up to four guests, this is a great choice for families, and the fact that it's owned and run by two chefs is good news for foodies too, and everyone appreciates the sea views and proximity to the waterfront and beaches. Guest quarters are in seaside villas or the main house, which dates from 1857; some have sea views, and all are beautifully decorated and have private bathrooms. A covered veranda overlooks Shinnecock Bay, and ocean beaches are just minutes away across the Ponquogue Bridge. Stay midweek for for Food Truck Wednesday, sponsored by the on-site paddleboard company, with outdoor music, bar, and, of course, a food truck; the party happens rain or shine.

Hospitality is the hallmark of this charming shingle-covered colonial inn, where every bedroom has antique cast-iron beds and country pine furniture. Each shabby-chic room also seems to be filled with yard upon yard of fabric: generous floral table covers and drapes, white duvets, and quilted spreads. From here it's a 15-minute walk to Southampton and a mile to a public beach.

With a shuttle to the beach, lots of on-site activities, and a quick walk to Southampton's shops and restaurants, this modern inn ticks a lot of boxes. Rooms have contemporary country furniture and fittings and the beds have down comforters and lots of pillows. Outside, Adirondack chairs are scattered throughout the expansive, formally landscaped grounds that include a patio courtyard, a large outdoor pool, and tennis courts. For a fee, seasonal residents and locals can get a membership to use the recreational faciltities here.