Long Island, New York

New York

Long Island vacation rentals

Beach towns, wine country, and Hamptons-style escapes just outside NYC.

Best time to visit

Memorial Day through Labor Day for beaches; fall for wine harvest and quieter inns.

Rental types

Beach cottages · Hamptons estates · Vineyard guest houses · Soundfront homes

Getting there

Reach the Hamptons and North Fork by car via I-495/LIE; JFK and LaGuardia are the closest major airports.

Why Long Island rewards a rental stay

A rental gives you the full summer-house experience — morning coffee on a deck, beach gear in the garage, and room for friends. The Hamptons get the headlines, but North Fork and the South Shore offer more space for the money.

Many rentals are weekly in peak season, with Saturday-to-Saturday turnover. Off-season and midweek stays can be much more flexible.

Things to do

  • Catch waves and sunsets at Montauk Point and Ditch Plains
  • Taste North Fork wines in Mattituck, Cutchogue, and Greenport
  • Ferry out to Fire Island's car-free beach communities
  • Explore the mansions and gardens of the Gold Coast
  • Dine on fresh seafood in Sag Harbor and Greenport
  • Bike the boardwalks and nature trails of Jones Beach

Booking tips for Long Island

Hamptons prices spike in July and August. If your dates are flexible, June and September offer warm water and lower rates. North Fork is quieter and more affordable, while Fire Island rentals often require ferry logistics.

  • Saturday-to-Saturday rentals are common in summer
  • Confirm beach access and parking permits
  • Fire Island homes may require carrying luggage from the ferry dock
  • Book Montauk and Hamptons homes months ahead for peak season

Where to stay in Long Island

The Hamptons

East Hampton, Southampton, and Montauk — high-end beach living and surf culture.

North Fork

Wine country, farm stands, and relaxed waterfront villages like Greenport.

South Shore

Long Beach, Fire Island, and family-friendly Atlantic beaches.

North Shore

Gold Coast mansions, harbors, and easy access from New York City.

Example rentals in Long Island

Browse all Long Island rentals
Montauk Surf House, a beach house in MontaukBeach House

Montauk Surf House

Montauk · Long Island

4 bd3 baSleeps 10
Ocean viewBeach accessHeated pool

from $890 / night

North Fork Vineyard Cottage, a guest cottage in GreenportGuest Cottage

North Fork Vineyard Cottage

Greenport · Long Island

2 bd1 baSleeps 4
Vineyard viewsPatioFireplace

from $325 / night

Hamptons Modern Pool House, a estate guest house in East HamptonEstate Guest House

Hamptons Modern Pool House

East Hampton · Long Island

3 bd3 baSleeps 6
Private poolTennis court accessGated

from $750 / night

Long Island FAQs

How far is Long Island from NYC?

The North Fork is about 90 minutes by car; Montauk can be 3+ hours in summer traffic. The LIRR train serves many towns.

Can I visit Fire Island for a day?

Yes, via ferry from Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue. Cars are not allowed in most Fire Island communities.

Is the Hamptons only for luxury travelers?

Not entirely. While estates dominate the high end, you can find more modest cottages and guest houses, especially outside peak weeks.

What's the North Fork like?

Laid-back wine country with farm stands, vineyards, and small villages. It's less scene-driven than the Hamptons and great for food and wine trips.

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