Sag Harbor Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Sag Harbor, including natural and cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Sag Harbor

Sag Harbor is a charming village located in Suffolk County, Long Island, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime heritage, and affluent community. The village offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern amenities. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Sag Harbor, so you can make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Sag Harbor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historic Places

  • Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum - Learn about Sag Harbor’s rich maritime heritage and its role in the Whaling Industry. The museum is home to a collection of whale-related artifacts, including harpoons, scrimshaw, and sperm whale bones.

  • Custom House - This restored 18th-century building served as a customs house in the past and is now a museum showcasing local art and history.

  • Sag Harbor Cinema - Recently restored and reopened to the public, this iconic cinema features independent and foreign films.

  • Old Whalers’ Church - Visit the historic church that served as a hub for Sag Harbor’s whaling community in the 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Sag Harbor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sag Harbor State Park - Spread over 314 acres, this park features a beautiful beach, biking/hiking trails, nature walks, and picnicking areas.

  • Mashomack Preserve - This State Park has 11 miles of coastline, tidal creeks, woodlands, wetlands, and open fields that make it a great location for hiking, birdwatching or just enjoying nature.

  • Long Beach - This sandy beach offers a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing and watching the sunset.

  • Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge - Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike through the natural habitat of birds and observe different bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sag Harbor

  • Sag Harbor to Montauk Point State Park - This 70-mile biking trail is a popular choice for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Sag Harbor and beyond.

  • Sag Harbor Village Bike Loop - This 12-mile scenic route loops around Sag Harbor Village, and offers stunning views of the harbor.

  • Montauk Point Lighthouse Loop - This 38-mile bike loop takes riders through some of the most stunning coastal scenery with breathtaking views of the ocean.

Best Things to Do in Sag Harbor: Activities and Tours

  • Sag Harbor Sailing - Experience Sag Harbor’s rich maritime heritage by taking a sailing trip.

  • Kayak and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding - Enjoy a fun day on the water with a kayak or stand-up paddleboarding trip.

  • Sag Harbor Ghost Walking Tour - Learn about Sag Harbor’s spooky history on a guided ghost tour.

  • Shopping and Dining in Sag Harbor Village - Explore Sag Harbor’s charming village and grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and shops.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sag Harbor

Day Itinerary
1 Explore Sag Harbor Village and visit the Custom House
2 Hike the Mashomack Preserve in the morning and enjoy a sunset at Long Beach
3 Take a day trip to Montauk Point Lighthouse and loop around
4 Visit Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum
5 Rent a bike and go on the Sag Harbor Village bike loop
6 Sailing trip and kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding
7 Shopping and dining in Sag Harbor Village

Food and Drink Scene of Sag Harbor

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster roll - A must-try in Sag Harbor, featuring fresh lobster meat in a buttery bun.

  • New England Clam Chowder - A creamy, hearty soup that’s perfect for cooler days.

  • Seafood Paella - A Spanish-influenced dish made with seafood, chicken, and saffron rice.

Local Beverages

  • Wölffer Estate Vineyard - This local vineyard has been making wine since the 80s and offers a variety of wines for tasting.

  • Harbor Gannet Bakery - Enjoy brewed coffee and fresh-baked goods.

Where to Stay in Sag Harbor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • American Hotel - Affordable and luxurious hotel located in the heart of Sag Harbor Village.

  • Baron’s Cove - Upscale resort offering stunning views of Sag Harbor Cove and luxury amenities.

  • Sag Harbor Inn - Modern hotel overlooking Sag Harbor Cove with a heated outdoor pool and marina dock.

What to Buy in Sag Harbor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sag Harbor Rum - Made with locally-grown sugar cane, this rum is perfect for a beach day or nightcap.

  • Sag Harbor Handmade Soap - Locally-made, natural soaps with unique fragrances.

Local Culture and Customs of Sag Harbor

Sag Harbor has a vibrant arts community and is home to many artists and writers. The village is also known for its annual Harbor Fest, a weekend-long celebration in September that features live music, food, and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit Sag Harbor

The best time to visit Sag Harbor is during the summer season (June to August) when the weather is warm, and the village is bustling with activities. However, spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold, but it’s a perfect time to enjoy cozy indoor activities like local cinema and museums.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sag Harbor

Do:

  • Explore Sag Harbor Village on foot.

  • Visit the historic sites and museums to learn about the village’s rich history.

  • Try the local seafood and wine.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in nature.

  • Disturb the wildlife at the National Wildlife Refuge.

  • Park in the overcrowded parking areas and risk getting a ticket.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sag Harbor

Sag Harbor is a relatively safe village but do take precautions to prevent theft and protect your belongings by keeping them in lockers or with you at all times.

Health in Sag Harbor

There are several hospitals and medical facilities located throughout Sag Harbor and Suffolk County.

Getting to Sag Harbor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sag Harbor

  • East Hampton Airport - 4 miles

  • Montauk Airport - 16 miles

  • LaGuardia Airport - 92 miles

Bus Stations Near Sag Harbor

  • Hampton Jitney - Offers several bus routes daily in Sag Harbor

Other Options

  • Car rental - Numerous rental companies operate in Sag Harbor and surrounding cities.

  • Private shuttle services - Several private shuttles operate between Sag Harbor and New York City.

How to Get Around in Sag Harbor

Walking and biking are the best options for getting around Sag Harbor Village. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for those who prefer to travel by car.

Where to Go Next from Sag Harbor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Hamptons - Explore the neighboring villages of East Hampton, Bridgehampton, Southampton, and more!

  • Long Island Wine Country - Take a day trip to Long Island’s wine country, where dozens of vineyards and wineries can be found.

Conclusion

Sag Harbor is a stunning village with a rich history and natural beauty. From exploring its cultural and natural attractions, biking and hiking routes, and shopping and dining scene, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Sag Harbor, and you leave with unforgettable memories.

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