What to pack

A Hamptons beach day is mostly decided by what the beach does not provide. Unguarded beaches have no restrooms, no concession and no bins, and several guarded ones have a concession but no shade. The rules shape the bag too: the Town of Southampton bars alcohol and glass at its beaches, the Village of Southampton bars alcohol and pets at Cooper's, and the Town of East Hampton bars alcohol within 1,000 feet of road ends during lifeguard hours.

Still choosing a beach? The best-of ranking will narrow it.

The base bag

• Water. A liter a person, more for the dog. Unguarded beaches have none, and seawater makes dogs sick.
• Shade. A hat and an umbrella. Cooper’s Beach rents umbrellas and cabanas; at most other beaches shade is yours to bring.
• A trash bag. Several beaches carry a carry-in, carry-out rule.
• Cans and plastic, not glass. Glass is banned at Town of Southampton beaches.
• Sunscreen and a cover-up. The ocean breeze hides how strong the sun is.

For the dunes and paths

• Tick protection. EPA-registered repellent and permethrin-treated clothing, walking in the center of trails, and a tick check afterward. See the ticks and dunes guide.
• Closed shoes for the walk over the dune on hot days.

For the water

• A rash guard for sun and jellyfish season. The lion’s mane jellyfish causes most stings in local waters, and the jellyfish guide has the treatment.
• A flotation toy for kids does not replace supervision. Stay within arm’s reach and inside the flags.

For the evening

• A headlamp if you plan to stay for sunset. Most beaches have no lighting, and the Town of Southampton closes its beaches at 9pm.
• A layer. It cools quickly after sunset, especially on a bay beach.