Get to know Water Mill
To look across every leafy lane and green acre in Water Mill is to be awash in a stream of splendor. Real estate in this hamlet is highly sought-after, composing a dazzling collection of modern, post-modern, and traditional-style homes. Suppose A-plus houses weren’t enough to sway you on Water Mill. In that case, the area also lays claim to a lively local art scene, multiple miles of beautiful beachfront, and numerous celebrity residents. This combination has sent the otherwise humble hamlet’s profile skyrocketing to the point where Water Mill is mentioned in the same breath as immediate neighbors Bridgehampton and Southampton Village. Water Mill boasts two sets of darling waterfronts on its southern shore. Head to Mecox Bay for a tranquil environment like no other, or venture a little further down Flying Point Road and dip your toes right into the Atlantic Ocean.
Nearby Neighborhoods:
Bridgehampton, North Sea, Sag Harbor, Southampton
History & Culture
An actual water mill served as Water Mill’s entire raison d’être: The original 40 acres of today’s hamlet were laid out for a mill that could grind nearby folks’ corn, oats, and wheat. Purportedly operated from around 1644 to the early 20th century, this two-story shingle-style structure still stands as the Water Mill Museum. Art has flourished in the hamlet, a marriage of paintbrush and land that shouldn’t be surprising given the picturesque landscape. The Parrish Art Museum is undoubtedly the biggest boon to Water Mill’s impressive creative pedigree. This institution has endured for centuries — standing in its current Herzog & de Meuron-designed building since 2012 — holds a peerless collection by American Impressionist William Merritt Chase, and continually exhibits marvelous modern works. Water Mill Center is a more eclectic space devoted to collaborations between visual and performing artists, scientists, and anyone who wants to learn and explore.
Dining & Shopping
Another remarkable aspect of Water Mill is that you’re never more than a shell’s throw away from superb food and drinks. Traveling across Montauk Highway is akin to navigating the globe via your taste buds. France, Japan, and Greece — among others — all wave their culinary flags in Water Mill. Hamptons cuisine is also well-represented in the form of delectable seafood. You’ll find coffee shops in and around town for when you need an extra boost, plus ice cream parlors and bakeries when you need to sink your sweet tooth into something. And as you’ll often find across the East End, there are farm stands and vineyards. For retail endeavors, neighboring Southampton and Bridgehampton boast incredible clothing and jewelry boutiques, in addition to antique shops and outposts from familiar brands.
