Just under 100 miles from New York City on the eastern tip of Long Island, the Hamptons are known for being the summer playground for the rich and famous, with extravagant oceanfront mansions, designer boutiques, and swanky eateries serving $100 salads. It’s also a place of more elemental delights: pristine beaches, bountiful farmers’ markets, picturesque wineries. And of course, it’s home to a few luxury boutique stays, foremost among them The Maidstone Hotel in the town of East Hampton. Here, our review of this haute hotel.
The Look of The Maidstone Hotel
The Maidstone is housed in a spectacular 150-plus-year-old Greek Revival estate located directly on East Hampton’s Main Street. With whitewashed shingles, dark green shutters, an expansive porch, and green-and-white-striped awnings, it has a classic look befitting the town’s history (the village was founded in 1648). Guests relax with drinks in the secluded, flower-studded garden. Just a short stroll through the grounds and you’ll forget how close you are to the buzzy town center.
Inside, the rooms embrace a quirkier — albeit still elegant — aesthetic. Each is distinctively designed with Scandinavian-inspired touches; some have punchy patterned wallpapers and rugs, others are minimalist-chic with bright whites and clean lines. All feature handcrafted Hästens mattresses and selections from the hotel’s photography collection. Some have bathtubs and ensuite fireplaces; there are also three suites in standalone cottages with private gardens.
The Vibe at The Maidstone Hotel
It’s the Hamptons, so expect a bit of a scene. Gussied-up hotels guests and Hamptons residents gather at the restaurant, Loulou La Plage, for French-inspired cocktails (the cheeky Menage a Trois features dill-infused suze, grapefruit juice, passionfruit, agave, and Champagne) and fare like niçoise salad and steak au poivre. Those craving a (slightly) more casual ambiance sling back cocktails at the Maidstone Bar or retreat to the garden or the front porch to people-watch.
Who Will Love The Maidstone Hotel
Couples and small groups of friends looking to splurge on a stay close to East Hampton’s best shops and restaurants — and the beach.
Who Might Not Love The Maidstone Hotel
Budget-conscious travelers should stay elsewhere: Even in the off-season, rates start at $600 per night. Also, families and large groups should keep in mind that the largest accommodation is just 600 square feet. Also, note that the hotel does not have a pool.
Best Amenity at The Maidstone Hotel
Sun-seekers will love that the hotel offers highly coveted beach parking permits, along with a slew of beach-centric amenities like umbrellas, chairs, and towels. Not to mention bikes: The gorgeous East Hampton Main Beach is a five-minute ride away.
What’s Included at The Maidstone Hotel
In addition to the beach parking permits, chairs, umbrellas, towels, and bikes, your stay at The Maidstone Hotel also includes wifi, parking, and shuttle service to Bridgehampton.
Fees & Extra Costs You Should Know About at The Maidstone Hotel
Standard taxes (about 14% of your room rate) should be expected. All food and drink costs extra, and other services (i.e., spa treatments, beach butlers, dog walkers, yoga and surfing instructors) can be arranged for an additional fee.
How to Get a Deal at The Maidstone Hotel
While the property does not offer packages or promotions, prospective guests are encouraged to book directly through the hotel’s website to snag the best available rate.
The Sweet Season
Stay outside of high season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) to score lower rates on lodging. The fewer crowds are a bonus; however, keep in mind that some businesses are open seasonally, so, for example, you may have fewer restaurant options. But, there is something charming about staying here in autumn, winter, or spring, when you’ll feel as if you have the entire property — and surrounding village — almost all to yourself. September, with its still-warm weather and ocean temperatures, is optimal.
In the Neighborhood of The Maidstone Hotel
The Maidstone Hotel is located right on Main Street in East Hampton, putting you within walking distance of the best shops, from big-name designer brands like Restoration Hardware, alice + olivia, and Ralph Lauren to smaller stores like Khanh Sports for sporting goods and bike, paddle, and surfboard rentals; Carelle for handmade baubles; and BookHampton for beach reads. Restaurants and bars also abound, including John Papas Cafe (which serves all-day, Greek-inspired fare), The Blue Parrot (known for its tacos and margaritas), and CittaNuova (a bustling Italian trattoria with alfresco seating).
Nearest Airport to The Maidstone Hotel
East Hampton Airport is less than ten minutes away, but if you’re not chartering a private plane, then Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip (just over 55 miles away or 75 minutes by car), is your best bet. Otherwise, consider JFK or LGA, which are both around 100 miles away, or two to three hours by car, depending on traffic.
Nearest Public Transportation to The Maidstone Hotel
The East Hampton Long Island Railroad stop is a three-minute drive (or 20-minute walk) from the hotel.
Those looking for a taste of the good life in one of the country’s swankiest zip codes will find their fantasies fulfilled at The Maidstone Hotel.