Sagaponack was built on a sense of welcoming community, and continues to open its arms to travelers today. Whether you’re a Grammy-winning musician taking your boat out for the day, a family looking for a quiet week at the beach, or a farmer at the local market — you’re all part of this community. Strolling past shops, sitting down for dinner, enjoying a local winery, or just kicking back with a book from a local author, ours is a peaceful retreat that rewards those who make the trek out here to Sagaponack.
It was the 1600s when a small group of Puritans from Lynn, Massachusetts created the first permanent English settlement in the state of New York in what is today known as the Hamptons. Originally called Conscience Point, the area was home to the native Shinnecock tribe, who assisted the settlers with agriculture, trapping games and digging clams and scallops from the bay. The 1700s brought whaling and fishing following the withdrawal of British troops after the Revolutionary War. With the extension of the Long Island Rail Road through Southampton to Sag Harbor in 1872, visitors could travel far and wide the enjoy the developing seaside escape. By the late 19th and 20th centuries, wealthy New Yorkers sought a peaceful retreat in this stately resort community, leading to a building boom in the early 20th century.
At the center point of The Hamptons, Sagg Main Beach is a big draw for local residents. As a guest of the Inn, we can provide guest passes that allow access to this laid-back destination. There is a lifeguard on duty, restrooms, and a concession stand. We also have passes for the following Southampton beaches: Mecox Beach, Foster Memorial (Long) Beach, Flying Point Beach, Hot Dog Beach, Tiana Beach and Pikes Beach.
Settled in 1653, Sagaponack was one of the early divisions of Southampton, before Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor and other parishes. The name came from the Shinnecock term for “place where the large ground-nuts grow.” The village was recognized for its productive potato farming, thanks to mostly level and fertile land full of ponds, forest and rich soil. Today, Sagg Main Street is still home to just one store and a small post office.
Sagaponack locals frequently comment that “everybody knows everybody” and our guests are struck by the rural feel of our village, despite our proximity to popular beaches and Southampton shopping and dining. In between luxurious estates, you’ll find extensive protected farm reserves and open vistas where you can see for miles across the former potato fields.
