Wainscott

 
  Sagaponack farm stand
 
  Gibson Beach
 
  Sliders from Townline BBQ

Did You Know?
There is a reason why the Sagaponack zip code (11962) has been cited as the most expensive in the United States. Access to the rare combination of lush verdant fields, fertile farmland and some of the nation’s best beaches comes at a price. The name Sagaponack means “land of the big ground nuts” (potatoes) in Shinnecock, and potato farming continued here until the late 20th century. In fact, many of Sagaponack’s most impressive estates are built on former potato fields. Wainscott, with its picturesque farm stands and charming chapel, is Sagaponack’s neighbor to the east. The hamlet was named after Wainscott, Kent, a village just north of Maidstone in England. Among the town’s many treasures is Georgica Pond, the backdrop of some of the most exclusive properties on the East End

Meet the Neighbors
Sagaponack is home to one of the most valuable homes in the United States. Businessman Ira Rennert’s property has five buildings totaling 110,000 square feet, making it one of the largest occupied residential compounds in the entire country. The main house alone has 29 bedrooms, 39 bathrooms, a 91-foot formal dining room and a $150,000 hot tub, and is situated on 63 acres of oceanfront property.

Luxury Living
One of the most beautiful ways to experience Georgica Pond is by kayak. Main Beach Surf + Sport leads kayak tours all summer long. Participants in the Full Moon Wine and Cheese Tour depart at sunset and paddle out to the ocean beach for a bonfire, then paddle back under the light of the full moon. Stand-up paddleboards are available for the more adventurous. Another great place to ride the waves is Gibson Beach, a little slice of the French Riviera at the end of Gibson Lane in Sagaponack. 352 Montauk Hwy., Wainscott, 537-2716

Loaves & Fishes Gourmet Take-Out is famous for its extremely high-priced lobster salad, but the summer delicacy is worth every cent. Chunks of tail meat are lightly dressed, enhanced with capers and served on Loaves & Fishes’ homemade bread or atop field greens. For a truly decadent lunch, make sure to also bring home a blueberryrhubarb crumble or a serving of brownie pudding for dessert. 50 Sagg Main St., Sagaponack, 537-0555

Best Bites
When hunger strikes, head for Townline BBQ for Texas-style short ribs, pulled pork and brisket, all served alongside classic sides like cornbread, baked beans and cole slaw. If filling up on pulled pork sandwiches (made with Townline’s original barbecue) is not decadent enough for you, you can always opt for the over-the-top fried mac and cheese. 3593 Montauk Hwy., Sagaponack, 537- 2271

If you really want to impress your guests, swing by Levain Bakery and pick up a variety of gigantic, to-die-for cookies. Chocolate lovers will flip for the dark-chocolate cookie with peanut butter chips or the classic chocolate chip with walnuts. A local favorite is the oatmeal-raisin cookie—crispy around the edges, yet moist and chewy in the middle. Wainscott Village Shopping Center, 354 Montauk Hwy., Wainscott, 537-8570