Where to Stay in Long Island ✔️ 6 Best Areas & Top Hotels

If you came here looking for where to stay in Long Island, well, I have to tell you that you’re in the right spot. Long Island has a very special place in my heart, as I actually lived there for some time.

The best area to stay in is Montauk, but not because I lived there 😂. This charming small village at the very end of Long Island has everything you need and more for a perfect vacation. But just in case, I included 5 more areas across Long Island popular among locals and tourists, too, so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Do note that Long Island, especially the eastern part is a favorite spot of New Yorkers and Floridians, so accommodation gets booked months in advance. Take this seriously, as I am not kidding. Book your stay as soon as possible!

Now, let’s go!

If you are in a hurry

If you’re excited to book ASAP, fret not. Below you’ll find the best accommodation options in my beloved Montauk – it’s picturesque, packed with attractions, and restaurants, and you won’t regret it!

Here’s a map to help you visualize the areas I suggest staying on Long Island.

1. Montauk – where to stay in Long Island for the first time

Montauk is a small quaint village overlooking the serene Atlantic coastline on the far east of Long Island favored by sailing and boating enthusiasts due to its rather windy shore.

New Yorkers flock here for weekend getaways, and Floridians dock their yachts for the summer. Once you step inside Montauk, you’ll understand why. The village is as if taken out of a storybook. The center is easily walkable, with many restaurants, local shops, and hotels.

You also have the ‘suburbs’, a part of Montauk that is further from the center. I personally liked exploring it on my bike as it is peaceful and perfectly safe but also very serene. In this area, you have a lake (apart from the ocean), and many local shops, hotels, and restaurants (again).

A bit further east, at the very end of Long Island, or as locals call it ‘The Point’, you’ll find the famous Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum and Park. You’ll be welcomed to scenic lighthouse views and sunset-watching spots.

Close by, you’ll get to see the renowned Camp Hero State Park. Any Stranger Things fans here?

The Montauk Project was the inspiration for Stranger Things. Supposedly, there were experiments with time travel and psychological warfare conducted at the military base in Camp Hero in Montauk. 

A short walk from the gazebo in the center, you’ll find the Montauk Brewing Company. Their Montauk Beer is loved by locals, and there are frequent events hosted at the brewery. 

In Montauk, you’ll be surrounded by seafood restaurants everywhere (dah!)! Duryea’s is a popular one accessible by car, but I recommend taking a boat there. It will make the experience that much better. And have the lobster rolls – they are delicious!

Another personal favorite of mine is Solé East (map). I used to spend days sipping cocktails by the pool, and nights by the firepit with my friends, enjoying a glass of Taste by Bedell (a Long Island wine). Sole East may not be an oceanfront property, but their garden is oh my!

Other accommodation options in Montauk

Montauk abounds in trendy hotels, and that’s why I also wrote an article on the best hotels in Montauk. But I want to take this opportunity to recommend another Montauk hotel. It’s a beautiful resort featuring a peculiar lighthouse replica: 

Montauk Yacht Club – choose from standard rooms to suites with marina views, modern amenities, on-site parking, and a restaurant on-site. Rooms are spacious, and many feature a balcony with scenic views. 

Things to do in Montauk

• Brunch at John’s Pancake House
• Explore the area on a bike
• Dip your toes into the ocean
• Take a catamaran sunset cruise on the Lake Montauk
• Untangle conspiracy at Camp Hero State Park
• Taste your luck at whale-watching
• Snap a pic at Montauk Point Lighthouse
• Buy Montauk Blueberry Whiskey
• Party like crazy at the Surf Lodge and at 668 Gig Shack

2. The Hamptons – where to stay for celebrity sightings

The Hamptons is what I like to call a picture-perfect village packed with celebrity houses! It’s a super expensive area, but it’s really worth it! Much like Montauk, The Hamptons are a popular destination for weekend getaways. They encompass the villages of Amagansett, East Hampton, Bridgehampton, and South Hampton.

Here, you’ll stay adjacent to bustling fishing marinas and the renowned Hamptons beaches. Visit Egypt Beach for seclusion and East Hampton Main Beach for afternoon sunbathing. Top golf courses will also be a stone’s throw away (East Hampton Golf Club or South Hampton Golf Club).

The Hamptons, historically a hub for farming and fishing, still has numerous active farms in the region.

I loved the Christian By Wölffer restaurant in Amagansett, and I highly recommend it as a great alternative, if you cannot visit the Wölffer Vineyards themselves. Their most popular wine is Summer in a Bottle which you just have to try if you’re a wine aficionado! But if you’re leaning towards a more rustic experience, Indian Wells Tavern is your safe bet.

The East Hampton area is great for families as it has easy beach access and less noise pollution. Don’t miss out on visiting the LongHouse Reserve for the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever seen!

If you’re into art, you can head to the Dan Flavin Art Institute in Bridgehampton for some minimalist art exhibitions.

Other accommodation options in The Hamptons

If you’re looking for more details, read our article on the best areas and hotels in The Hamptons. 

Things to do in The Hamptons

• Stroll around the quaint villages
• Buy peculiar candy at Dylan’s Candy Bar (map)
• Visit the LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton (map)
• Spend a day at Indian Wells Beach or Coopers Beach
• Get lost in the Napeague State Park
• Explore the Hamptons shore on a yacht

3. Sag Harbor – where to stay in Long Island for history

​​Sag Harbour is a nice, relaxed town with a vibe similar to The Hamptons. However, it’s more affordable and less posh.

As you stroll along the main street dating from 1745, you’ll get to explore the city’s central hub, packed with eclectic shops and dining options.

You’ll be surrounded by historic landmarks and can enjoy a mix of culture and coastal vibes. There are many cute local shops with unique souvenirs, so you can hop around and treat yourself to an interesting catch. Popular shops include Bloom, Thriftknd, and Sag Harbor Books.

Sag Harbor was named after Sagaponack, a nearby village. Sagaponack got its name from a special kind of root vegetable that the Pequot tribe, who lived there, used to eat a lot.

This small town also has the Whaling and Historical Museum, Foster Memorial Beach, Bay Street Theater (they offer kids camps in the summer!), and Center for the Arts.

When you want to relax, you can head to the Sag Harbor Marine Park, a small, cozy park worth a stop. If you’re into Mexican food, you’ll have the best burger at eLTacobar!

Sag Harbour is also convenient for water sports adventures. Some of the best beaches where you can practice (or simply relax) include Havens Beach, Foster Memorial Beach, Windmill Beach, and Circle Beach (known for sunset-watching spots!)

Now, let’s see the accommodation:

Other accommodation options in Sag Harbor

Things to do in Sag Harbor

• Chill at Havens Beach
• Have the best Italian-style dinner at Tutto Il Giorno
• Eat delicious frozen yogurt at Buddha Berry’s (my favorite!)
• Go on a Long Island winery tour (hotel pickup)
• Visit the Sag Harbor Weathered Windmill

4. Riverhead – best place to stay on Long Island for budget

Riverhead is one of the rare places on Long Island with a big city vibe, located near boutique shopping villages. It’s also one of Long Island’s most affordable towns.

People who stay in other parts of Long Island often come here for shopping, as you can find great deals. I like to call Riverhead the ultimate shopping village on Long Island, as it’s the only place in the East End that is allowed to have corporate stores like Target and Walmart, on top of all the other cute places where you can buy authentic souvenirs and clothes.

Oh, and don’t miss out on the Long Island Aquarium while you’re here! If you’re into fun activities, you can book private diving sessions and other authentic experiences!

Other accommodation options in Riverhead

Things to do in Riverhead

• Visit the Long Island Aquarium
• Go shopping at Tanger Outlets
• Visit the Railroad Museum of Long Island
• Go wine tasting at the Roanoke Vineyards

5. Greenport – where to stay in Long Island for luxury

Greenport is an excellent place to explore a taste of North Shore luxury and be nestled in a charming seaside hamlet. The accommodation here is a bit more expensive, but it provides vistas of the tranquil harbor, and it’s also where some of Long Island’s most iconic hotels are located.

The city is close to Long Island’s artisanal breweries, hiking and biking trails, and picturesque farming communities (notably in North Fork).

I highly recommend visiting the Lavender by the Bay, a local lavender farm, for the most picturesque and pleasant experience in the area!

Greenport is the northern ferry point for Shelter Island, a relaxed place with some of the best sunsets I have seen! The city is also ideal for exploring maritime heritage. You can visit the East End Seaport Museum for insights about whaling in the area.

There are also many family-friendly activities, including the old carousel in the center, tons of ice cream stores, and a skate park.

Other accommodation options in Greenport

Things to do in Greenport

• Take the ferry to Shelter Island
• Go on a wine-tasting tour in North Fork
• Visit the East End Seaport Museum
• Try the best local wines at Kontokosta Winery

6. Westbury – best place to stay in Long Island for seclusion

Westbury is the closest village to New York City, and it’s also near the historic Gold Coast mansions and the island’s nature preserves.

It offers serene garden experiences, the most famous being the Westbury Gardens. This lovely garden was one of the filming locations for the cult movie The Great Gatsby featuring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Other notable points of interest include NYCB Theatre at Westbury and Hicks Nurseries Gardens. Jericho and Garden City are a must-visit near Westbury!

The area also offers proximity to equestrian trails and makes a great place to stay for seclusion and a vacation in nature. Westbury also has tons of restaurants and places to shop for all tastes, and it offers easy access to city escapes.

Other accommodation options in Westbury

Things to do in Westbury

• Visit the Westbury Gardens
• Have lunch at Casa di Fratelli
• Attend a show at NYCB Theatre at Westbury
• Buy yourself a plant from Hicks Nurseries, Inc.
• Catch a movie at The Space at Westbury
• Take a ride to the Jones Beach State Park on the South Shore

BONUS: Oceanfront hotels in Long Island, NY

Long Island is one of the favorite luxury locations for New Yorkers and tourists worldwide. Nothing makes a luxury stay better than oceanfront hotels with easy beach access. That’s why I’ve grouped some of the best such hotels where you can stay!

The price range for hotels below ranges from US$200 to US$600 per night for 2 people.

1. Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa
This oceanfront resort and spa is ideal if you want to treat yourself with relaxing treatments during your visit. It’s a pet-friendly property with a restaurant on site. All rooms have air conditioning and can sleep from 4 to 8 people. Modern furnishings with a boho flair.

2. The Hermitage at Napeague
Clean, cozy, and one of the best hotels for oceanfront relaxation in Long Island. Private balconies, full kitchen facilities, and 2 tennis courts are available on-site. The hotel also offers beach access, family rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool.

3. Silver Sands Motel & Beach Bungalows
This charming motel and bungalow place has tons of room options for couples, a private beach area, and private bathrooms in all rooms. They have rooms with a garden and sea view, as well as free private parking.

4. The Montauk Soundview
Fabulous 5-star hotel with a private beach area, waterfront-facing apartments, and air-conditioned facilities. An outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi are available.

5. Hotel Moraine
Stay in Hotel Moraine for fabulous views of Long Island Sound, 1st class accommodation, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. The property also offers original features such as yoga classes and a snack bar. Pets are allowed here, too!

6. The Pridwin Hotel
This heavenly waterfront resort is ideal for couples and families. Water sports facilities, a spa lounge, and a fitness center are available on-site. One of the most beautifully curated properties on Long Island!

7. Aqua by American Beech
This adults-only hotel has everything you need for a cozy stay. It offers views of picturesque bays as it’s located on the Peconic Bay itself. Every room has an iPod dock, a flat-screen TV, and a refrigerator. Hiking trails and golf courses are a short ride away.

FAQs about hotels in Long Island

🏝️ What is the nicest place in Long Island?

Montauk is the most attractive and beautiful place to stay on Long Island, especially if you’re coming for the first time. I recommend Hartman’s Briney Breezes for luxury and Montauk Manor for a more affordable stay.

📷 Is Long Island good for tourists?

Absolutely! Long Island, notably the East End, is great for tourists. You can find many tourist attractions across the North and South Shore, relax on sandy beaches, and enjoy modern amenities available at most hotels.

❤️ What is the best place to live on Long Island?

Many celebrities have houses in The Hamptons, as it’s the perfect place not far from NYC, perfect for beachcombing and relaxation. Mantouk and Riverhead are also convenient places to live on Long Island.

❓ What are the parts of Long Island, NY?

Long Island has dozens of neighborhoods in 4 counties: Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau, and Suffolk. Culturally though, only Suffolk and Nassau are considered as parts of Long Island.

💲 Is Long Island really expensive?

Yes! Long Island, especially the East End, is super expensive. With many celebrities flocking to the island, it’s no wonder why the prices here are higher. However, there are also budget-friendly cities like Riverhead, with great accommodations like Holiday Inn Express.

🤔 Is Long Island safer than Brooklyn?

In general, yes. But it’s really hard to compare, given that Brooklyn is a city, and Long Island comprises dozens of villages and towns. However, in Brooklyn, you can find some of the best hotels outside of NYC.

🗺️ Where to stay in Long Island for the first time?

Montauk on the East End is the best area to stay for first-timers. It’s the most beautiful one with tons of hotels and restaurants, ideal for weekend getaways. Beware, though, as it’s super expensive. I recommend the Hartman’s Briney Breezes Beach Resort for luxury stays.

Conclusion

So, my dear reader, you have reached the end of this Long Island article! Hopefully, you now have a clear idea of where to stay in Long Island.

Whether you’re into water sports, history, or beachfront relaxation, Long Island has something to offer for everyone. I know I gave you a loooot of options for hotels, and I get how this can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ll share my 2 favorite options below:

Long Island is packed with visitors year-long because it provides easy access to city escapes, so I highly recommend you book your stay in advance!

If you have any questions or would like specific recommendations, just drop me a comment below! I’ll be happy to answer!

Enjoy Long Island,

Beti

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