Getting to East Hampton
East Hampton sits at the eastern end of Long Island's South Fork, and most visitors arrive either by road, rail, bus, or air. Each option has its own trade-offs in cost, convenience, and flexibility.
Arriving by Car
Driving is a straightforward way to reach East Hampton from New York City. The two main routes are the Long Island Expressway and Sunrise Highway, both of which run east from the city toward the South Fork.
Arriving by Train
The Long Island Rail Road connects Manhattan with East Hampton, making it a practical car-free option for reaching the area. Tickets are priced in the range of $18–25, so it is worth checking current fares and schedules before you travel.
Arriving by Bus
The Hampton Jitney is a bus line that runs from Manhattan to East Hampton as well as to other destinations on both the North Fork and the South Fork. Tickets are about $30 each way, or roughly $53 for a round trip. Reservations are not required, but they are recommended, particularly in peak season.
Arriving by Plane
MacArthur Airport (ISP) is the only reasonably close airport to East Hampton, serving flights nationwide; it is about 70 minutes away. For those flying privately or by charter, East Hampton Airport (HTO) on Daniels Hole Road offers a larger runway suitable for light jets. Charter companies such as Air Charter Advisors and Sound Aircraft Services offer flights at both MacArthur and East Hampton, with aircraft rentals ranging from single- and twin-engine propeller planes to luxury business jets.
Arriving by Boat
Ferries travel from Orient to New London, crossing Long Island Sound in about 75 minutes. This can be a scenic alternative if your itinerary brings you in from the north.
Getting Around
Once you are in the area, trains travel from village to village, along with Suffolk County Transit buses. These two modes form the backbone of local public transport for visitors moving between the hamlets and villages of the East End.
- Trains: The Long Island Rail Road serves the villages along the line, making it possible to hop between stops without a car.
- Buses: Suffolk County Transit buses provide additional local coverage alongside the rail service.
Practical Tips
- Book Hampton Jitney seats in advance when you can, even though reservations are not strictly required.
- Compare rail and bus fares against your schedule; the train runs from Manhattan and the Jitney serves both forks.
- If you are flying in, plan for the roughly 70-minute transfer from MacArthur Airport to East Hampton.
- For private or charter flights, East Hampton Airport can accommodate light jets.