In recent years, the Hamptons have seen the rise of a series of new exclusive racquet clubs that are redefining the traditional country club experience. These clubs offer members access to beautifully maintained tennis courts with stunning views, as well as amenities such as spas, personal trainers, Michelin-starred food, and exclusive events. The goal of these clubs is to promote wellness both on and off the court, providing a chic and social atmosphere for members to enjoy.
One example of these new racquet clubs is NAOA, a private members club located in East Hampton. Members pay a $30,000 initiation fee and $12,000 in annual dues for access to ten tennis courts, including two made of European red clay and eight made of har tru clay. The eight-acre campus also offers amenities such as pickleball courts, padel courts, a wellness area with cold plunges and an infrared sauna, a retail shop, a bar, and a restaurant run by a Michelin-starred food group.
The Racquet Lounge at Southampton is another popular club in the Hamptons, offering four padel courts, six pickleball courts, and seven tennis courts. Founded by the Kent Hospitality Group in 2023, the club provides members with opportunities to play, take lessons, participate in tournaments, camps, and social events. The club’s food offerings are provided by SAGA, offering gourmet sandwiches, salads, and smoothies.
Some of the new clubs in the Hamptons are focusing on sports like pickleball and padel, which are rapidly growing in popularity, especially among the wealthy and famous. Privé Padel, located at the Montauk Yacht Club, offers players unobstructed views of yachts and wildlife from their glass-walled courts. The club has seen a significant increase in court reservations and plans to continue expanding its offerings.
Brisas, another new club in East Hampton, offers three padel courts and a 4,000-square-foot lounge with amenities such as an outdoor sauna, yoga studio, snack bar, and game area. The club’s furniture is hand-crafted by artisans in Mexico, reflecting a Bohemian spirit that aims to bring authenticity and inclusivity to the country club experience. Members can participate in various activities, including padel clinics, candle making, floral arranging, and ceramics.
Overall, the Hamptons’ new exclusive racquet clubs are blending luxurious amenities with a focus on wellness, creating a unique and upscale experience for members. With offerings such as Michelin-starred food, beautiful court views, and a variety of sports and activities, these clubs are reimagining the traditional country club model and attracting a diverse group of members who value both physical activity and social connections.
