Wainscott
The ocean and pond views from Wainscott’s fields and meadows in the south, together with the seclusion offered by its lush woods in the north, make this hamlet one of the most desirable in the Hamptons. Located central to Bridgehampton and Sagaponack to the west, East Hampton to the east and Sag Harbor to the north, Wainscott straddles the border between Southampton and East Hampton Towns. Famous Georgica Pond lies in Wainscott, along with Georgica Close, and waterfront property here is among the most coveted and highly prized in the Hamptons. The exclusive Georgica Association, a gated community of approximately 30 homes on the western shore of the pond, was founded in 1892 by wealthy people who preferred a low-key, family-oriented lifestyle to living on a grand estate. Wainscott has an ocean beach, Beach Lane Beach, and Town Line Beach is just over the western border in Sagaponack. This quintessential community celebrates the Hamptons way of life, and retains a historical and agricultural aura. There is a small commercial district on Montauk Highway with a variety of shops and food purveyors, and there are a couple of inns.
Named for a village north of Maidstone, England, Wainscott’s first road was commissioned by East Hampton Town in 1652. By 1688, John Osborn arrived and represented the first of many generations to farm Wainscott’s fertile soil. Some farming still goes on here. Many authentic colonial houses over three centuries old are still standing and occupied, but the most innovative modern and contemporary styles are also represented. A quiet area itself, Wainscott’s choice location between Bridgehampton and East Hampton also gives its residents ready access to some of the best shopping and dining in the area.
“I love that I can step out of my house and walk my dogs in the woods on miles of trails.” -- Lee Minetree
“My heart belongs here in Wainscott! The open pond vistas to the south and unending farm views to the north lead you down quaint Main Street. The Wainscott Chapel is our village meeting spot and home to the sewing society even today. This quintessential beachfront hamlet from a bygone era is home to the exclusive “Association,” Beach Lane and Bill and Lisa’s family farmstand. This is a tight community, well rooted in our heritage and rich soil.” -- Laura White