By Hailey McGowin, Licensed Real Estate Professional

Where does the time go? It feels like yesterday that I was shopping for school supplies and now we are on our third costume change concept. The Hamptons is a magical place in fall, the summer folks have retreated from the shore, and clothing has shifted to plaid-clad garments, boots, and sweaters. Changing leaves make the drive between hamlets a magical cacophony of colors. Fall also brings delightful outdoor activities such as surfcasting for stripers and blue fish, and hunting the ever-elusive Peconic bay scallop; They are sweet briny pillows of love that signal the change of seasons for locals and visitors alike. Here are some of my favorite spots to visit during the Autumn season.

To avoid the seasonal traffic jams and kiddos scrambling for their apples and pumpkins, look at visiting attractions like Hank’s Pumpkintown mid-week. The earlier the arrival time, the better off you will be.

Corwith’s Farmstand has their baby goats and all the farmstand fall favorites, if your stoop isn’t full of oversized multicolored pumpkins are you even really trying? For all that fall entertaining don’t forget to hit up Green Thumb Farmstand, their fresh selection will elevate any dish and they also have a lovely playground for the younger kids, easy to climb, not too high, and a smaller size so your trip to get dinner ingredients doesn’t turn into an all-day affair.

For seasonal Ice cream flavors do not miss out on Loaves and Fishes' Pumpkin Praline Ice Cream. Handmade in small batches by their talented cookbook author and pastry chef, Licia Householder, you will dream about it the rest of the year. Enjoy the divine weather with a glass of wine at Wolffer in Sagaponack and then meander over to Townline BBQ for Billy Valentine's smoked creations and one of Ryan Brown’s specialty Palomas. For dinner, Chef Justin Finney comes with the umami moments at the Highway Restaurant & Bar, their fresh catch is always a good bet, seasonal sides never take a back seat with this chef driving the chuck wagon.

The name of the game is avoiding crowds, getting grounded, and indulging in the sweetest season in the Hamptons. It’s an opportunity to rediscover all your favorite spots and revel in the small-town feel of this sleepy beach. Remember folks, use your blinkers, tip well, and be kind. 

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