Westhampton Beach, New York
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| Westhampton Beach, New York | |
|---|---|
| Name | Westhampton Beach, New York |
| Settlement type | Village |
| Pushpin label position | left |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | New York |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Suffolk County |
| Subdivision type3 | Town |
| Subdivision name3 | Southampton |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | 1928 |
| Area total sq mi | 2.6 |
| Area land sq mi | 2.2 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.4 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 2020 |
| Population density sq mi | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Coordinates | 40, 48, 35, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 11978 |
| Area code | 631 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 36-79963 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0971650 |
| Website | https://www.westhamptonbeachvillage.org/ |
Westhampton Beach, New York is an incorporated village in the town of Southampton on the South Shore of Long Island. Located in Suffolk County, it is a prominent summer resort community known for its pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and vibrant cultural scene. The village serves as a commercial and social hub for the surrounding area of Westhampton and the greater Hamptons region.
History
The area was originally part of the Shinnecock Indian Nation territory before European settlement. In the late 17th century, it was settled by colonists from New England, with early industries including farming, fishing, and whaling. The arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in the late 19th century, particularly the extension of the Montauk Branch, transformed the community into a popular summer destination for wealthy New Yorkers. Significant development followed the Great Hurricane of 1938, which caused extensive damage and led to modern reconstruction efforts. The village was officially incorporated in 1928, and its growth was further spurred by its proximity to Francis S. Gabreski Airport, a former military base.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 2.6 square miles, of which 2.2 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water. Westhampton Beach is situated on the eastern end of the Great South Bay, adjacent to Moriches Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The village includes the barrier island of Westhampton Dunes and is near the Pine Barrens region. Major geographic features include the Quantuck Bay and the Post Lane Bridge, connecting the mainland to the beach communities.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 2,020. The population density was approximately 918 people per square mile. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median household income is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting its status as an affluent community. A notable portion of housing units are seasonal or vacation homes, leading to significant population fluctuations between summer and winter months.
Economy
The economy is heavily oriented towards seasonal tourism, hospitality, and retail. Main Street is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, including establishments like the historic Patio Restaurant. The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center is a major cultural and economic anchor. Other significant employers include the Francis S. Gabreski Airport, which supports aviation services, and various real estate firms. The village also hosts seasonal events like the Westhampton Country Fair that drive local commerce.
Culture and recreation
Westhampton Beach is renowned for its cultural offerings and outdoor activities. The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center hosts a year-round schedule of films, concerts, and theatrical productions. The village's beaches, including Westhampton Beach and Rogers Beach, are major attractions for swimming, surfing, and boating. The Westhampton Yacht Squadron and the Westhampton Country Club provide recreational facilities. Annual events include the Fourth of July fireworks, the Westhampton Beach Summer Concert Series, and the Hampton Classic Horse Show in nearby Bridgehampton.
Government
Westhampton Beach operates under a mayor-council form of government. The current mayor is Maria Moore, and the village board consists of four trustees. The village provides services including police protection through the Westhampton Beach Police Department, water and sewer, and parks maintenance. It falls within New York's 1st congressional district, represented in the United States House of Representatives. The village is part of the Westhampton Beach Union Free School District and is located within the jurisdiction of the Suffolk County Supreme Court.
Category:Villages in Suffolk County, New York Category:Hamptons Category:Populated coastal places in New York (state)