The Power of a 36-Hour Vacation in The Hamptons

There’s an art to transforming a brief escape into a rejuvenating getaway, and there’s no better place to master it than The Hamptons. Recently, our Luxury Travel Editor, Gayle Higginbotham of Oculus Travel, shared her insights from a sublime 36-hour weekend in this idyllic region of New York, proving that even a short getaway can rejuvenate and leave a lasting impact.

Intentional Travel: Making Every Moment Count

Gayle’s whirlwind Hamptons adventure began with a smooth and scenic journey via Blade helicopter. With its pristine beaches, picturesque farmland, and charming towns, the Hamptons have become synonymous with a luxurious and laid-back lifestyle. 

For those short on time, intentional planning can turn a mere weekend into a complete break from the daily grind, offering meaningful moments with friends and family to rest and unwind. “I’ve never come away from a weekend with such joy and peace,” Gayle reflects. 

Instead of enduring a grueling three-hour drive or train ride, the 30-minute hop on the Blade helicopter from Manhattan to Southampton allowed her to maximize her time exploring and enjoying The Hamptons. For those who prefer not to fly, Blade has recently introduced the Hamptons Streamliner, a next-generation coach service. This service caters to individuals who have more time, want to spend a bit less, but seek a superior alternative to traditional public transportation. The Streamliner offers a first-class experience with only 19 passengers (compared to over 50 on typical motorcoaches), streaming-fast WiFi, an upscale lavatory, and the world’s only motion-canceling passenger seat, the HoverSeats™. With a full bar and exceptional service from our passenger attendants, it’s no surprise that Blade’s aviation side has seen a 40% increase in new flyers this summer.

A Warm Welcome and Fresh Finds

Upon landing at the Southampton heliport, Gayle was greeted by friends and whisked away to the Lighthouse Fish Shop in Hampton Bays. This charming shop is a treasure trove of fresh, local seafood, where Gayle picked up scallops, clams, and shrimp, all caught that morning. The variety and quality of produce, including fresh-made sauces, preserves, baked goods, and fruit pies, were only surpassed by the warm welcome from the store’s manager and team.

Sunset Dining and Serendipitous Moments

Arriving at their weekend home just in time for a sundowner, Gayle and her friends shared a delicious home-made meal of grilled vegetables, grits, and shrimp. The highlight was the locally sourced corn on the cob, perfectly complemented by tequila, fresh lime, and a splash of soda. As the sun set, the group enjoyed a slice of blueberry pie and a bourbon nightcap, setting the stage for sweet dreams.

The next morning began with strong black coffee and lemon ricotta pancakes, prepared by their gracious host. Nourished and ready for the day, the group headed into the quaint streets of Westhampton Beach to explore the farmers market. They gathered fresh fruit and vegetables, delighted in the vibrant atmosphere, and did some light shopping before returning home to greet more friends with Aperol summer spritzes by the pool.

Hamptons Polo

The highlight of the weekend was the Polo Hamptons event. Gayle’s experience was elevated by a personal invitation from Le Barth Villa Rental and Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa, titled ‘Gallop into Caribbean Elegance at Polo Hamptons’. The invitation read:

“Le Barth Villa Rental and Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa are riding high and bringing tropical flair to the Polo Hamptons event and tournament in Bridgehampton, New York, on July 27, 2024. Enjoy an afternoon of thrilling polo matches, delectable hors d’œuvres, authentic coconut waters, and field-side fun. Visit our pavilion and let us whisk you away to the stunning elegance of our villas, hotel, and the enchanting island of St. Barth, all set against the backdrop of equestrian charm.”

The event promised an elegant affair that called for perfect outfits, hair, and makeup. With access to their hostess’s stylish hat collection, Gayle and her friends dressed to impress. The Polo Hamptons event offered guests the thrill of a polo match combined with a VIP experience. Attendees enjoyed an open bar paired with exquisite hors d’oeuvres by Elegant Affairs, all while soaking in the dazzling display of sport and style.

Wrapping Up the Perfect Weekend

Following the unforgettable day, the evening was complimented by a delightful dinner at Almonds, a renowned local restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal cuisine. The next day started with freshly baked cornbread for breakfast before hitting the beach. The group enjoyed a casual lunch at a charming lobster shack, savoring the last few hours of their retreat. As the weekend drew to a close, Gayle boarded the Blade helicopter back to Manhattan, feeling relaxed, happy, and joyous after a beautifully curated long weekend.

The Essentials for a 36-Hour Hamptons Getaway

For those inspired by Gayle’s journey, here are some tips to make the most of your short vacation:

• Pack Smart: Limit your luggage to essentials under 25lbs. Include basics like running gear and your favorite hairbrush, but leave room for new finds from local shops and markets.
• Be a Gracious Guest: Flying in by helicopter means you’re limited on weight restrictions but remember to include a gift for your host so you don’t arrive empty handed.
• Embrace Intentional Planning: Short trips can be profoundly refreshing if planned with purpose. Focus on quality time and meaningful experiences.

Gayle’s serendipitous weekend in The Hamptons is a testament to the power of intentional travel. With thoughtful planning and a spirit of adventure, even a brief escape can provide a complete and rejuvenating break from the everyday. Whether it’s savoring fresh seafood, enjoying local events, or simply spending quality time with friends old and new, The Hamptons offers an ideal setting for a perfect 36-hour vacation.

Find out more about Oculus Travel – if you would like to book your Blade experience or find out about Le Barth Villa Rental and Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa, contact Gayle Higginbotham, Founder of Oculus Travel for your tailored trip.

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