How to Get a Hamptons Beach Pass this Season

You did it! You’ve secured your Hamptons Summer rental, your LL Bean Boat n’ Tote is packed, you’ve braved the “cannonball” from Penn Station to the Hamptons. You’re ready for sun and sand this summer… if you have a beach pass.

Getting a beach pass in the Hamptons can feel confusing because each town and village sets its own rules, prices, and eligibility requirements. In general, most ocean beaches in the Hamptons require a parking permit during the summer season, typically from mid-May through mid-September, and non-residents face higher costs and limited availability.

Understanding the differences between towns like Southampton, East Hampton, and Westhampton Beach is essential before planning your summer in the Hamptons. 

Understanding How Hamptons Beach Permits Work 

Unlike many public beaches, Hamptons beaches are controlled at a local level. Towns and villages manage access primarily through parking permits rather than admission tickets. This means that even though the beach itself may be public, you usually need a permit to park close enough to reach it. Seasonal passes are often limited and sell out quickly, especially for non-residents.  

For example, the Village of East Hampton requires permits between mid-May and mid-September. With only a few thousand seasonal passes available, demand often exceeds supply, so you want to get your passes as soon as you can.   

Southampton Town Beach Parking Permit 

Southampton Town offers both seasonal and daily options. Permits can be purchased online, in person, or directly at certain beaches with attendants. These permits apply only to town beaches and do not cover village-controlled locations such as Coopers Beach.  

Non-residents can purchase seasonal permits per vehicle, and some beaches also allow daily parking instead of a full-season commitment. Summer renters may also qualify if they provide appropriate documentation, and rental cars can be used with a valid agreement in the homeowner’s name.  

In general, Southampton tends to be slightly more accessible than other Hamptons areas, with seasonal passes available to non-residents and occasional day-rate parking options at select locations. Beaches from Hampton Bays through Westhampton Dunes are generally covered under the Southampton Town beach parking permit apart from Westhampton Beach Village beaches, and private beach clubs.  

East Hampton Village Non-Resident Permit 

East Hampton Village is known for having one of the most competitive and expensive beach permit systems. Full-season non-resident permits are sold online only, typically beginning in early February, and the number available is capped. For 2026, seasonal non-resident permits cost $750 and are valid from May 15 through September 15. 

Because these permits are limited, they often sell out quickly. Visitors who cannot secure a seasonal pass may rely on daily permits where available, which have historically been around $50 per vehicle during the summer season.  

East Hampton Town Beaches 

Outside the village, East Hampton Town also controls several beaches with its own permit system. These permits may differ in price and availability depending on residency status. Like other Hamptons towns, the general model prioritizes residents first, with limited options for non-residents and higher fees.  

Westhampton Beach Village Parking Stickers 

Westhampton Beach Village has its own separate rules, particularly for seasonal renters. Non-resident seasonal renters can obtain beach access if they provide documentation such as a letter from the homeowner authorizing use of the permit, along with identification and vehicle registration. Fees for non-resident seasonal access can be high, and permits are typically tied to specific vehicles and residency documentation.  

This system reflects the general Hamptons trend of restricting beach parking to residents while still offering limited access to renters and guests. 

Daily Passes and Alternative Options 

If you don’t want to buy a full-season pass, some Hamptons beaches offer daily parking, though availability varies. Certain East Hampton locations have daily digital permits linked to your license plate and purchased after securing a parking space.  

Visitors often rely on these day passes or look for beaches with more flexible access rules. 

What Locals Say About Cheaper Options 

Online discussions among Long Island residents suggest that some areas—especially around Montauk—can be easier to access. One Reddit commenter noted that many Montauk beaches are free or have minimal parking fees, while others require state or county permits. 

“Montauk beaches are free… state beaches… charge $8 to park.”  

While anecdotal, this reflects a common strategy: consider state or county beaches nearby when Hamptons village permits are unavailable. 

Tips for Getting a Hamptons Beach Pass 

The best strategy depends on how often you plan to visit. Seasonal passes make sense for frequent trips, but they require planning months in advance. Day passes offer flexibility but may be limited. Summer renters should check with their hosts early, since some permits can be transferred with documentation. 

Because each municipality operates independently, the key is identifying which town controls your desired beach and applying through that specific local government. Timing matters, documentation requirements vary, and non-resident availability is often restricted. 

Ultimately, getting a beach pass in the Hamptons is less about buying a single universal permit and more about navigating a patchwork of local rules. With advance planning—and sometimes a backup beach—you can still enjoy one of Long Island’s most iconic summer experiences.