Prior to staying at The Surf Lodge, we spent two nights in Hampton Bays. It was just a few days after Hurricane Irene so we felt extremely fortunate to have even made it to Long Island and that the damage caused by Irene wasn't worse than it was.
We spent our time driving around, admiring the beautiful houses and architecture (who doesn't love a porch with a swing out front?!), visiting the roadside farm stalls which are dotted around the island, hoping for a random sighting of Ina Garten (okay, that was only me ;), photographing random cars (clearly I am obsessd with American motor vehicles-I photographed even more than I have shown you here!), taking a trip on the ferry to Shelter Island and listening to this song by Billy Joel. I think it is my most favourite Billy Joel song.
Eat: Excellent chowder at The Dockhouse in Sag Harbour (sit on the dock and watch all the huge yachts- and their lucky passengers- as they manoeuvre their way into the harbour while slurping your chowder).
Espresso Market in Sag Harbour. This kind of place is one of the reasons I love travelling in the US so much- the food won't blow your mind but it is good, homemade and served with a smile. We shared an omelette stuffed full of mozzarella, fontina, provolone and prosciutto for breakfast one morning.
Canal Cafe&Market on the Shinnecock Canal, Hampton Bays.
Drink: The American Hotel is an institution (so worth a visit for the history) but.....