East Hampton, a charming and picturesque town located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York, has long been a favorite filming location for numerous famous films, TV shows, and books. Its idyllic beaches, majestic mansions, and tranquil streets perfectly embody the spirit of the quintessential American small town, offering a stunning backdrop for a variety of stories.
East Hampton: A Star on the Big Screen
Throughout the years, East Hampton has played a starring role in an array of renowned films that have captivated audiences worldwide. These films not only showcase the town’s beautiful scenery, but also its unique charm and character.
Classic Films Shot in East Hampton
Several classic films have capitalized on the town’s picturesque landscape and upscale atmosphere. Here are some notable examples:
- “The Swimmer” (1968) – Directed by Frank Perry. This film, based on a short story by John Cheever, features Burt Lancaster as a suburban man who decides to “swim” home via the pools of his neighbors. Parts of the film were shot in various locations in East Hampton.
- “Deathtrap” (1982) – Directed by Sidney Lumet. A Broadway playwright, played by Michael Caine, hatches a cunning plan to produce a successful play in this dark comedy thriller. The movie features scenes shot in East Hampton.
- “Wall Street” (1987) – Directed by Oliver Stone. In this iconic film about the ruthlessness of Wall Street, East Hampton serves as the setting for the luxurious beach house of Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas).
Contemporary Films Shot in East Hampton
In more recent years, East Hampton continues to grace the silver screen in contemporary films. Some of these include:
- “Something’s Gotta Give” (2003) – Directed by Nancy Meyers. This romantic comedy, starring Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton, features a beautiful East Hampton beach house as a primary setting.
- “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004) – Directed by Michel Gondry. In this surreal love story, East Hampton’s wintery beach landscapes serve as a backdrop for several pivotal scenes.
- “The Night Listener” (2006) – Directed by Patrick Stettner. This psychological thriller starring Robin Williams and Toni Collette includes several scenes filmed in East Hampton.
TV Shows Set in East Hampton
In addition to films, East Hampton has also been the setting for a number of popular TV shows. Some of these include:
- “Revenge” (2011-2015) – Created by Mike Kelley. This TV series about a young woman seeking revenge on the people who destroyed her family is set in the Hamptons, including East Hampton.
- “The Affair” (2014-2019) – Created by Sarah Treem and Hagai Levi. This drama series explores the emotional effects of an extramarital relationship and features many scenes filmed in East Hampton.
- “Royal Pains” (2009-2016) – Created by Andrew Lenchewski and John P. Rogers. This medical comedy-drama about a concierge doctor in the Hamptons often features East Hampton as a filming location.
Animated Films Set in East Hampton
While there are few animated films set in East Hampton, the town’s charm and beauty have surely inspired many animated worlds. It’s easy to imagine an animated version of the town serving as the backdrop for a heartwarming family film or an exciting adventure story.
Famous Books Set in East Hampton: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
East Hampton’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that take place in East Hampton.
Classic Books
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald – While primarily set in the fictional towns of West Egg and East Egg on Long Island, parts of this classic novel draw inspiration from East Hampton.
- “The Amityville Horror” by Jay Anson – This famous horror novel, based on alleged real-life events, is set in the nearby town of Amityville but includes references to East Hampton.
- “Time and Again” by Jack Finney – This time-travel novel includes many scenes set in the Hamptons, including East Hampton.
Contemporary Books
- “The Emperor’s Children” by Claire Messud – This critically acclaimed novel about three friends in New York City includes key scenes set in East Hampton.
- “The Beach House” by Jane Green – This novel about a woman who opens her Nantucket home to renters for the summer captures the spirit of East Hampton’s beachside living.
- “Sag Harbor” by Colson Whitehead – This coming-of-age novel is set in Sag Harbor, a village within East Hampton, and beautifully captures the town’s unique character.
Exploring East Hampton’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
To fully immerse yourself in East Hampton’s film history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are some must-see places that have been chosen by authors and filmmakers to shoot films or set novels.
- Main Beach – Featured in “Something’s Gotta Give,” this beautiful beach is the quintessential East Hampton location.
- The Maidstone – This historic inn, featured in “The Night Listener,” offers a glimpse into East Hampton’s sophisticated charm.
- Guild Hall – This cultural center, which frequently hosts film screenings, has been featured in several films and TV shows.
- East Hampton Library – This local library has served as a filming location for various productions and is a beloved local landmark.
- Pollock-Krasner House – Once the home of artists Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner, this house and its surrounding landscape have been featured in numerous films.
- The Big Duck – While not located in East Hampton proper, this unique roadside attraction in nearby Flanders has made appearances in both films and books set in the Hamptons.
Where to Sleep in East Hampton: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury Options
Whether you prefer budget-friendly accommodations or luxurious retreats, East Hampton offers a range of options to suit every traveler.
Budget Accommodations
- East Hampton House Resort – This budget-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
- East Hampton Art House Bed and Breakfast – This charming B&B offers a cozy stay in a beautiful setting.
- The Hedges Inn – This historic inn offers affordable rates and a convenient location near East Hampton’s main attractions.
Luxury Accommodations
- The Maidstone Hotel – This luxury boutique hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms and a prime location in East Hampton Village.
- The Baker House 1650 – This high-end B&B offers luxurious rooms in a 17th-century house.
- Gurney’s Star Island Resort & Marina – This upscale resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the marina.
Where to Eat in East Hampton: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
From casual diners to high-end restaurants, East Hampton offers a plethora of dining options to suit every palate and budget.
Budget Dining
- John Papas Cafe – This casual cafe offers a wide variety of dishes at affordable prices.
- Springs Pizza – For a delicious slice without breaking the bank, Springs Pizza is a great choice.
- Clam Bar at Napeague – Offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices, this local favorite is a must-visit.
Luxury Dining
- The 1770 House – This upscale restaurant offers exquisite dishes in a historic house.
- Nick & Toni’s – Known for its celebrity sightings, this Italian restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience.
- East Hampton Grill – This high-end grill offers a gourmet menu with a variety of options.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day: Exploring East Hampton’s Filming Locations
To make the most of your film-themed trip to East Hampton, here is a comprehensive itinerary that includes the town’s iconic filming locations.
Day 1: Central East Hampton
Start your day by exploring the heart of East Hampton. Visit the Pollock-Krasner House, followed by a stroll down Main Street. After lunch, visit the Guild Hall and the East Hampton Library. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Beaches and Beyond
Begin your day at Main Beach, followed by a visit to the Maidstone Club. After lunch, explore the Amagansett National Wildlife Refuge and Indian Wells Beach. Round off the day with a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Village and Vineyards
Spend your morning exploring Sag Harbor Village, a historic and picturesque area of East Hampton. After lunch, visit the Wí¶lffer Estate Vineyard for a wine tasting. End your day with a sumptuous meal at one of Sag Harbor’s fine dining establishments.
Cryptic Legends and Curiosities: Unearthing East Hampton’s Mysterious Side
East Hampton is not just famous for its glamorous film locations. It also has its share of local legends and curiosities that add a layer of intrigue to the town.
One such legend is the tale of the “Maidstone Mermaid”. As the story goes, a beautiful mermaid once rescued a sailor near Maidstone Beach, and they fell in love. To this day, some locals claim to have seen the mermaid.
Another curiosity is the “Amagansett Mystery Stones”. These strange stones, found scattered throughout Amagansett, are etched with cryptic symbols and have baffled locals and visitors alike.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in East Hampton
Apart from its famous filming locations, East Hampton also boasts a range of lesser-known spots that are equally worth exploring.
- Hither Hills State Park – This beautiful park, filled with woodlands and a stunning beach, has been used for filming various productions.
- The Springs – This quiet neighborhood, once home to artists like Jackson Pollock, has been featured in several films and books.
- The Leiber Collection – This museum, dedicated to artists Gerson and Judith Leiber, has been the filming location for several art documentaries.
What to Pack for a Trip to East Hampton
When packing for East Hampton, it’s important to consider the local climate and your planned activities. For the summer, pack lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. For the colder months, warm clothing is essential. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for exploring the town and a camera to capture the beautiful locations.
How to Dress in East Hampton
East Hampton has a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. During the day, opt for casual chic attire like sundresses, khakis, or nice jeans. For evenings, especially when dining at upscale restaurants, more formal attire may be appropriate.
Transportation Tips: Navigating East Hampton’s Filming Locations
The best way to explore East Hampton’s filming locations is by car, as some locations may not be easily accessible by public transportation. Consider renting a car for your trip. Biking is also a popular way to get around, especially in the summer. The town also offers a reliable taxi service.
Travel Documentation
Before traveling to East Hampton, ensure you have the necessary travel documents. U.S. citizens will need a valid ID for domestic travel. For international visitors, a passport is required. Depending on your country of origin, a visa may also be required.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a film buff, a book lover, or simply a traveler seeking a unique and charming destination, East Hampton is a cinematic paradise waiting to be explored. From its iconic filming locations to its local legends and hidden gems, the town offers a wealth of experiences that will make your visit truly unforgettable. So pack your bags, ready your camera, and embark on a journey into the world of famous films shot in East Hampton. The magic of East Hampton awaits!
