I live in the Hamptons year-round. Visiting in the offseason is quieter, but comes with trade-offs.

The Hamptons are quieter in the offseason, but there's still so much to do.

Vanessa Gordon As a year-round Hamptons resident , I love the summers here, but I also appreciate the offseason.

Since it's much quieter in the winter, it's easier to get into restaurants and visit the beaches.

Although it's cold out, there are countless activities to enjoy, like ice skating and wine tastings.

As someone who has lived in the Hamptons for most of my life, I can always tell when summer is over: suddenly, it becomes incredibly easy to get around.

In July and August, I automatically have to build traffic into almost everything I do.

Drives that should take 15 minutes can take considerably longer, parking becomes challenging, and there are typically long lines everywhere.

But luckily, once the fall season settles in and the Hamptons have entered their offseason, I can get in my car and go anywhere I want with ease.

Sure, the quiet comes with tradeoffs, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in the colder months.

The hotels are more relaxing once the summer rush ends.

Vanessa Gordon When I take a summer staycation at a hotel in the Hamptons, my schedule is packed with dinners, beach time, events, and shopping.

So, if I ever want to really enjoy the local accommodations, I prefer to do so in the winter.

Once it gets colder, I can take the time to truly enjoy the property, sit by the fireplace, and have a gourmet breakfast without rushing.

Some of my favorite places to stay are the Maidstone and the Baker House 1650, both located in East Hampton.