Canoe Place Inn & Cottages: A Historic Hamptons Stay Worth a Winter Trip

In Southampton, a former trading post pairs colonial details with private cottages and a Mediterranean tavern.

Canoe Place Inn and its landscaped grounds — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Canoe Place Inn & Cottages

By Lulu Chang

Why it works

Hotel Snapshot

At Canoe Place, hospitality is simply part of the history. Proving that the Hamptons ought to be a destination 365 days a year, this stunningly restored Southampton property is just as beautiful in the heyday of summer as it is during the peak of winter. And with the unique distinction of being one of—if not the oldest—inn in America, no visit to Long Island would be complete without a stay at Canoe Place.

Initially founded in the 17th century as the Canoe Place Inn, the so-called “First Stop Out East” was originally a trading post before becoming a place of respite for everyone from soldiers to celebrities. Today, Canoe Place has maintained that longstanding tradition of hospitality but with a few modern upgrades.

Design & Character

The staircase and sitting area at Canoe Place Inn — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Canoe Place Inn & Cottages

Restored to reflect its colonial roots and classic Hamptons charm, Canoe Place sits on six acres just next to the Shinnecock Canal, which, to many, serves as the start of the Hamptons. With 13 guest rooms, seven suites, and five guest cottages, the property is spacious yet intimate, offering a welcome respite from often crowded venues throughout Long Island. Indeed, Canoe Place was redesigned as a sort of “garden by the sea” by developers Mitchell Rechler and Gregg Rechler, what with light greens, baby blues, and creamy caramel tones throughout the property, wallpapers featuring trellis motifs, and of course, plenty of indoor and outdoor flora.

Guests are welcomed to Canoe Place under a classic green and white striped awning and guided to an almost living room-esque lobby for check-in. Much of the inn feels like a Hamptons vacation home (if only we could be so lucky), with warm staff and much of the original Canoe Place Inn ethos.

And it’s not just the mentality that Canoe Place has kept intact. Instead, some aspects of the original property—including fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and even the domed ceiling of the Pavilion—are all as they were hundreds of years ago (lovingly restored, of course).

Rooms

A sitting room decorated for Christmas at Canoe Place Inn — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Canoe Place Inn & Cottages

That said, rooms are nothing short of modern marvels. While each room is unique, they all share the same classic Americana design ethos and some stunning amenities. We love the plush beds (especially the four-poster variety), the pillowy armchairs (continuing the green and white design motif), and the amazing light that each of the rooms enjoys, whether from the main, second, or third level of the primary residence, or one of the guest cottages. We’re especially taken by clawfoot tubs, luxurious carpeting, and locally sourced wines and spirits in a thoughtfully outfitted minibar.

Of course, should you opt for one of the cottages, you’ll be privy to all the above, as well as a private backyard, unmissable outdoor shower, and all-encompassing front porches that are simply what dreams are made of.

Dining

Good Ground Tavern at Canoe Place Inn — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Canoe Place Inn & Cottages

The striped awning over the terrace at Canoe Place Inn — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Canoe Place Inn & Cottages

Regardless of when you visit Canoe Place, the food and beverage program stands ready to highlight locally sourced ingredients transformed into a Mediterranean-style menu. The on-site restaurant, Good Ground Tavern, works carefully with local farmers and fishermen to feature only the freshest local ingredients, with an ever-changing menu (as well as a regular chef series).

Amenities

And when you’ve eaten your fill, you should check out the Sommetbeauty Spa, a clean beauty-focused establishment offering only the best in clean, sustainable beauty. Then, why not take a bike on a spin of local roads to truly experience the best that the Hamptons offers?

Location: Southampton, New York

So, whether you’re on vacation in summer, winter, or anytime, let the Hamptons demonstrate their charm with a visit to the impeccable accommodations at Canoe Place.

Fast Facts

Location: Southampton, New York

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: Colonial luxury with modern amenities

Food + Drink: The dining options at Good Ground Tavern are second to none and more than worth spending time at breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Amenities: Fitness center; Restaurant; Bar; Concierge; Ballroom; Meeting spaces

5 Nearby Attractions: Meschutt Beach, Shinnecock Nation Cultural Center & Museum, Squiretown Park, Penny Pond, Sears Bellows County Park

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: There is truly nothing like a walk along the Shinnecock Canal, either at sunrise or sunset (with a coffee or cocktail, depending on your speed)

Rooms: 25 rooms, suites, and cottages

Pricing: Rooms start at $595/night

Closest Airport: John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK)

Hotels Above Par

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