The Rude Hamptons - Tales of People Behaving Badly In Long Island’s Summer Playground

I went to Southampton Beach with my husband, my 2 children, my girlfriend, her 3 children and 4 other friends (twelve people in all). The beach was crowded that day so we looked for a spot just passed the life guard, but close enough to them. There was a women sitting further back on the beach. We started to set up our area closer to the water as we had 1 small child with us. The woman kept staring at me so I finally ask her why. She replies “Your blocking my view”. I didn’t know you can own a view on the beach.
- K

- Editor: What are the the proper beach rules? Normally if the tide goes out I move closer if I value ocean front seating.

When leaving the beach one sunny weekend afternoon, I saw a toddler girl traveling the width of the beach, headed with determination toward the parking lot. It became apparent that no adult was with or watching her.

Couple A was leaving the beach at the same time. They noticed the girl, as well. I commented that perhaps the girl was headed toward couple B in the parking lot…’no’, couple A said, ‘They’re friends of ours and the child doesn’t belong to them.’

At this point, couple B hollers to couple A: ‘forget it. She’s not your responsibility…’

And couple A proceeded to the parking lot.

I didn’t dare pick up the toddler to prevent her from wandering all the way up to Hill Street. Instead, I dropped my arms full of beach ’stuff,’ ran down to water’s edge, described the child to several groups sprawled on blankets…

Finally, one group of 40-something mommies said ‘my god, SUSIE, that’s YOUR daughter!!!’ At this, mom sprang to her feet and caught up with the child who was now in the parking lot.

Not a word of thanks to me, of course. When I said THANK YOU to the mom as she loaded the girl into the car, she said (get ready, dear reader…): “Three nannies for three kids and this is what happens. They’re fired.’

What about mom’s responsibility????
 

Sincerely,

Halsey Neck Beach Goer