Coopers Beach Crowned Best in U.S.: Parking Battles Heat Up in the Hamptons!

East Hampton, New York, USA - As the summer sun shines brightly, Hamptons beachgoers are eagerly diving into the season, marked by both celebrated local traditions and bureaucratic hurdles. Recently, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, famously known as Dr. Beach, declared Coopers Beach in Southampton as the Best Beach in the U.S. for 2025. This coveted title undoubtedly sets a bright spotlight on the area, inviting visitors far and wide. Second place went to Wailea Beach in Maui, Hawaii, while East Hampton Main Beach has its supporters, although access issues run deep in the sand.

Dr. Beach’s announcement comes as the community grapples with ongoing disputes regarding beach access, particularly concerning parking permits. Recently, a lawsuit was filed by David Ganz against East Hampton Village after his beach-parking permit was revoked due to reckless driving warnings. Strikingly, a judge ruled in Ganz’s favor on a technicality, stating that the village had no authority to revoke permits. However, the village is appealing this decision, citing safety concerns related to the matter, highlighting a contentious relationship between local residents and governance.

The Parking Permit Conundrum

Beach parking in the Hamptons can feel like navigating a labyrinth. The regulations governing access can complicate the enjoyment of sandy shores. The Town of Southampton oversees numerous beaches, including the famed Cooper’s Beach, well-liked for its stunning views and inviting swimming areas. However, parking permits in this area are tightly controlled. Southampton Village manages seven beaches, and parking permits for town beaches do not work at village beaches and vice versa.

The competitive nature of beach parking permits means many locals are often seen camping out for access, especially as online sales for permits kick off on February 1. The demand is evident, with high stakes for both residents and visitors. Current permit fees showcase the distinctions as follows:

For those seeking to access East Hampton beaches, non-resident permits can cost up to $750 for the full season. Interestingly, parking regulations are enforced by local police, with frequent ticketing that reminds all drivers to be vigilant about displaying their permits, especially from Memorial Day to Labor Day when enforcement is at its peak.

A Bit of History

Beach access disputes are nothing new in the Hamptons. The historical backdrop is marked by various tensions, going back over a century. Notable conflicts include the creation of a new village in 2005 that sought to block local residents from accessing beaches. And who can forget the 2001 protest against the Maidstone Club’s attempts to restrict beach access, which culminated in a heated confrontation with police?

In more recent years, the East Hampton Town Board has made strides to adapt beach permit rules to better serve locals, including extending the validity of permits to five years. However, recent discrepancies regarding expiration dates, particularly in information relayed by the police department, might suggest a need for clearer communication.

With high demand and ongoing disputes, the path to enjoying sun-soaked days at East Hampton Main Beach could be more tangled than the seaweed washed ashore. Nonetheless, for those willing to navigate the complexities of permits and legal battles, the beautiful beaches of the Hamptons offer a treasure worth pursuing.

For more details about the local permitting processes, you can explore additional information through Out East and the Hamptons Guide.

As this summer unfolds, it is worth peering through a magnifying glass at not just the alluring shores but the rules that govern them—a vital part of understanding and enjoying life in the beautiful Hamptons.