With ABC’s The View always making news, nobody deserves a break more than those opinionated co-hosts who get at it every day. Sunny Hostin is spending the rest of her summer in Sag Harbor, and she fills us in on how she’ll be filling her hard-earned days off.
What first brought you out East?
It was about 20 years ago, and I heard about this hidden gem in the Hamptons from my friend Barbara [Smith], better known as B. Smith. She said she lived on a private beach. She was having an event at her restaurant on the water in Sag Harbor, and I decided at the last minute to take the Jitney here for the day with my mother. I have summered here every year since.
What do you love most about the area?
I fell in love with Sag Harbor the first day I walked off that bus. I have always loved the water. Even though I really can’t swim well! I couldn’t believe that there was this special place with these calm waters. It’s hard to explain, but I felt at home. I’ve always felt safe here.
What are your favorite things to do in the Hamptons?
I spend my time in an enclave called SANS — Sag Harbor Hills, Azurest, and Nineveh — it’s an area in Sag Harbor that was historically owned by African-American families and is part of the National Register of Historic Places. These homes were owned by black families when home ownership was frowned upon and not allowed. I was welcomed so many years ago with open arms — especially by a wonderful gentleman named Bill Pickens, whose grandfather settled the area. It’s my happy place. My children have spent their summers here. It’s my respite.
Will you and [co-host] Joy Behar be seeing each other while you’re out East?
Absolutely! And now [co-host] Ana Navarro is part of the mix. And of course, Don Lemon and [his fiancé] Tim Malone.
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A Sunny Day Out East
Hostin shares her local crib sheet for eating, drinking, beaching, and more…
Favorite dinner destination: I love to cook, so generally, my backyard. I also impose on Joy [Behar] and Don [Lemon]. But sometimes The American Hotel, Lulu’s, or Ed’s Lobster Bar for lobster rolls. I love lobster!
Ultimate dessert fix: An Old Fashioned or Manhattan. I’d rather drink my calories.
Local décor resource: I like Fishers Home Furnishings in Sag.
Social calendar: My favorite time is the SANS Labor Day party. It’s the best. BYOB and BYOF. Best DJ. Although Earth, Wind & Fire at David Zaslav’s house was truly a highlight last year. And Don and Tim’s engagement party this year — just wow.
Farmer’s market must: I stop along the road every chance I get. It drives my hubby crazy. I buy hydrangeas.
Fitness essential: Our house sits on a private beach in the SANS community. I walk three miles every morning, and sometimes I paddleboard. There’s absolutely nothing like it. I now do it with my children. They are amazing swimmers. Me? Not so much.
Best sandy spot: Our beach.
Garden envy: Joy’s hydrangeas are gorgeous. I have some envy.
Beach read: I read constantly. I’m actually reading It’s Hot in the Hamptons — because why not?
Necessary luxury: I can’t get enough of dusk at Wölffer estate. Rosé and cheese. It’s so beautiful. I just bought the most gorgeous dress at Joey Wölffer’s boutique in Sag Harbor. It’s everything.
Road less traveled: My husband has a small boat, which he drives way too fast, but I love when he takes it out on the bay near dusk. Good friends, rosé, and water splashing on my face with my captain. Doesn’t get much better.
Sunny’s refuge: The backyard of our house, which faces the bay and the beach. The most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen
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