The Hamptons has long been a symbol of upscale summer escapades. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, its nightlife reached a pinnacle of glamour and exclusivity, drawing celebrities, socialites, and the wealthy to the glittering shores of the East End. This golden era transformed the tranquil beach towns into pulsating hubs of after-dark excitement.
At the heart of this scene were iconic nightclubs such as Conscience Point in Southampton. Known for its historic charm and elite status, Conscience Point was the epicenter of unforgettable parties where high-profile guests danced to beats from renowned DJs—until P.R. queen Lizzie Grubman infamously crashed her car into the front of the club, injuring 16 people and starting a media frenzy (and, according to some, the beginning of the end for Hamptons nightlife). Equally glamorous was JetEast in Southampton, offering a sophisticated atmosphere that attracted A-listers and fashion moguls, making it a staple in local nightlife.
And the nightlife scene wasn’t happening at the clubs alone. Upscale restaurants played a crucial role, with Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton being a notable hotspot. This culinary gem was not just about exquisite food; it was a social hub where celebrities including Alec Baldwin and Jerry Seinfeld were frequently spotted, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the vibrant social scene.
Extravagant parties at the homes of summer locals further added to the allure of this period out east. These private gatherings, often themed (White Party, anyone?) and featuring live performances, boasted guest lists that were as coveted as the events themselves. The Hamptons nightlife also embraced a distinctive beachy charm, with Sunset Beach on Shelter Island becoming a beloved spot. Its beachfront bar and stunning views offered a laid-back yet chic vibe, often with guests arriving by yacht.
Stephen Talkhouse, opened in 1987, also entered the nightlife chat, featuring intimate shows with major performers – Coldplay and Ed Sheeran have graced the stage — right on Main Street in Amagansett.
It was the halcyon days of the Hamptons scene—but nothing lasts forever and factors like rising property values, stricter zoning regulations, and noise complaints from year-round residents pressured local authorities to impose restrictions, leading to the decline of iconic nightclubs. A shift toward more private parties, coupled with economic downturns and changing demographics, further contributed to this transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic dealt the final blow, accelerating closures and reshaping the landscape.
“The era of major nightclubs is over,” Nick Kraus, a partner at the Talkhouse, told The New York Times in a recent interview.
Despite these changes, the Hamptons continue to evolve, blending its storied past with new ventures. Zero Bond, a high-profile members-only club known for its Manhattan location, has encountered significant challenges in its bid to open a branch at The Hedges Inn, a historic 13-room bed-and-breakfast in East Hampton Village.
Local opposition, fueled by concerns over potential noise, late-night activities, and the impact on the historic nature of the area, has been fierce. Proposed legislation to limit food and beverage service after 10 p.m. in East Hampton reflects the community’s desire to preserve its tranquility – and prevent a new nightlife scene from cropping up.
“Even the slightest thing of cars idling in the parking lot next to somebody’s house, people talking late at night in a parking lot — after people have drinks, sometimes they come out laughing, and they’re louder than they would normally be — all of that is going to disrupt the neighbors, because that’s how close the houses are,” East Hampton Village mayor Jerry Larsen told The New York Times.
“IT WAS THE HALCYON DAYS OF THE HAMPTONS SCENE — BUT NOTHING LASTS FOREVER.”
The controversy surrounding Zero Bond highlights the delicate balance between maintaining the Hamptons’ serene charm and embracing modern upscale experiences. As of now, Zero Bond’s plans remain in limbo, with founder Scott Sartiano’s commitment to integrating smoothly into the community yet to sway local sentiment.
Meanwhile, LDV Hospitality’s takeover of the Maidstone Hotel in East Hampton aims to blend modern luxury with historic charm. This initiative is part of LDV’s broader strategy to expand its Hamptons presence (the group also operates Scarpetta, Regent Cocktail Club, Tillie’s, and The Beach Club at Gurney’s in Montauk), leveraging the hotel’s prime location and storied past to attract a sophisticated clientele. However, this move has also faced opposition, with concerns about increased noise, traffic, and the commercialization of the serene town.
The transformation of the Hamptons’ nightlife is a testament to its ability to adapt while retaining its essence. From the glitz and glamour of the late 1990s and early 2000s to the evolution of today, the Hamptons continue to be a playground for the elite, balancing exclusivity with the need to respect its tranquil, historic charm. As new ventures seek to make their mark, the Hamptons’ nightlife remains a dynamic blend of past elegance and future possibilities.
