Coastal Culture and Flavors on the Road to the US Open

I’m back on the road this week, with colleagues from our sister courses for the ultimate US Open road trip, from our meeting point at Tunxis Country Club all the way to Shinnecock Hills on Long Island.

I'm Going Where, With Whom

Trading the dramatic views of Shining Rock for the coastal lanes of the South Fork is a dream, but the real adventure is balancing the brilliantly distinct personalities sharing the driver's seat this week. With our group, it’s certain there’ll be amazing finds:

• Emma Novak (Red Tail Golf Club): Our sharp, bookish writer who loves uncovering independent culture and the hidden details of local spaces.
  

• Hannah Braun (Tunxis Country Club): A fiercely confident, highly skilled golfer who keeps our athletic, competitive edge completely dialed in.
  

• Samantha Lindstrum (The Golf Club at Oxford Greens): A former water-sports competitor who acts as our logistical savior, finding every clever shortcut along the coast.
  

 The Grand Tour Itinerary:

• Monday (Emma's Day): A curated Connecticut transition featuring breakfast at Brew Bakers, local bookshops, and small-batch treats at Rich Farm Ice Cream.
  

• Tuesday (Hannah's Day): High-octane performance prep featuring launch monitor tuning at ZSTRICT at Chelsea Piers, fresh tournament gear at the PGA TOUR Superstore in White Plains, and a pilgrimage to Winged Foot.
  

• Thursday (Samantha's Day): Opening Day at Shinnecock Hills! A masterclass in traffic navigation featuring morning walks through the historic Rogers Mansion and The Pelletreau Silver Shop before using the dedicated train platform at MTA LIRR Shinnecock Hills Station.

Assuming we survive Hannah's high-octane Tuesday golf boot camp—which I must admit, will likely leave my competitive drive fully energized—Wednesday belongs entirely to me. My goal for our final day before the opening round at Shinnecock Hills is to immerse our traveling party into the sophisticated coastal lifestyle and culinary heritage that defines the South Fork of Long Island.

On my day, we're going to begin our morning in East Hampton with a mandatory visit to Carissa's The Bakery on Newtown Lane. If you appreciate spectacular culinary craftsmanship, this place is an absolute sanctuary. They are famous for their stunning, whimsical pastries and their signature pickled rye loaves, which have garnered a legitimate cult following out here. I look forward to watching Emma marvel at the interior design while Hannah and Samantha inevitably negotiate over who gets the last seasonal croissant. It is exactly the type of elevated, creative pause our group will need. 

Next, to fully appreciate the legendary, high-society cultural legacy of the East End, I am walking the group over to Guild Hall on Main Street. Founded in 1931, it is the absolute epicenter of local fine art and prestige on the South Fork. Strolling through their contemporary visual art exhibitions will give us an elegant, contemplative escape before the sprawling sports galleries consume our weekend.

The rest of the afternoon will be spent exploring the local boutiques, taking in the classic shingle-style architecture, and driving through the historic coastal lanes. To put the ultimate exclamation point on the evening, I am routing the SUV all the way to the end of the fork for a sunset waterfront dinner at Duryea's in Montauk.

There is nothing quite like sharing an exceptional meal right by the water as the sun dips below the horizon, surrounded by three brilliantly headstrong, talented women. We will undoubtedly laugh about our distinct definitions of a "perfect day," reminisce about our home clubs, and mentally prepare for the main event.

On Thursday, Samantha takes the wheel for the Opening Round, masterminding a brilliant logistical strategy to get us to the course. The lifestyle portion of the trip will be complete; the championship awaits.

Join the Conversation!

A perfect day on the coast is all about incredible sights, local culture, and exceptional dining. If you were planning a luxurious getaway weekend, what is your ultimate non-golf destination? Share your dream travel itineraries below!

Also, while we are away exploring the Hamptons, make sure to reserve your weekend dining spot online at Shining Rock to enjoy our own local culinary highlights! RESERVE YOUR FATHER'S DAY TABLE TODAY