The Long Island hamlet named for good water that became a magnet for celebrities

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Amagansett, a historic hamlet on Long Island, derives its name from the Montaukett phrase for place of good water. Once a modest settlement founded in 1680, it has transformed into a high-profile resort destination, famous for its sprawling estates, protected dunes, and a surprising history involving wartime espionage.

The origins of Amagansett date back to 1680, when it was established by families of English descent, including the Bakers, Conklins, and Barneses, alongside Dutch brothers Abraham and Jacob Schellinger. The area’s geography has shifted significantly over millennia; following the last Ice Age, what is now the Napeague stretch was once open water, separating Montauk from the rest of Long Island. Over time, littoral drift deposited sand, physically connecting the landmasses. Today, the region is defined by its natural features, such as the Atlantic Double Dunes and the Walking Dunes, which are preserved by government and conservation efforts.

Amagansett’s quiet coastal character has occasionally intersected with major historical events. In June 1942, during World War II, the hamlet became the site of a failed Nazi infiltration known as Operation Pastorius, when a German submarine landed four spies on Atlantic Avenue beach. The plot was thwarted after a vigilant Coast Guardsman spotted the men and alerted authorities. The original Coast Guard station, which played a role in the town's maritime history, was eventually preserved and relocated to serve as part of the East Hampton Town Marine Museum.

In the modern era, the hamlet has become a renowned enclave for the affluent and famous. It features some of the most expensive real estate in the region, with one residential estate selling for $107 million in 2007. This exclusivity is balanced by a commitment to historical preservation, as many 18th- and 19th-century structures remain standing. The community has long attracted notable figures, from Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller in the 1950s to contemporary artists and public figures like Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson, who considered the hamlet their spiritual home. Despite its celebrity status, the area maintains its identity through its distinct local institutions, including the Amagansett Free Library and the local school district.

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