Ken Gorin on Summer Travel Destinations

Ah, summertime. Seeing as the days are longer, warmer and lazier — this time of year always beckons me to simmer down and unwind in novel places. My favorite spots to globetrot to during the summer months? Well, they vary from the Hamptons to Mykonos to the Bahamas. With this said, here is the 411 on each of my top summer destinations…

The Hamptons, New York
Best known for being the playground for New York City’s posh set, the Hamptons provides stretches of beaches, dramatic dunes, delicious restaurants and luxe shopping. Thousands escape the hot city each summer to Southampton and East Hampton and their many hamlets and villages, including Sag Harbor, Water Mill and Bridgehampton. Each town boasts miles of museums, quirky antique shops, and placid bays just perfect for beach combing. “Season” here kicks off Memorial Day weekend, so be sure to book that dinner reservation at the most coveted restaurant in town, Nick & Toni’s. My pro tip? Book a table in the garden and you may just spot celebrities such as Howard Stern or Naomi Watts, just to name a few.

Mykonos, Greece
Renowned for its rolling hills, cubist Cycladic architecture, white beaches and high-rolling international crowd, Mykonos offers all the makings of the perfect summer spot with an emphasis on “fun.” Things not to be missed on the postcard-perfect island surrounded by cobalt-blue waters? Wandering through “Little Venice,” which is Mykonos’ historic 18th-century district. Snapping pictures of the island’s famous windmills lining the coast. And of course, partaking in some of the island’s notorious nightlife… and breaking a plate or two while you’re at it. Opa!

The Bahamas
Just a hop, skip and jump away from my hometown of Miami, Florida, the Bahamas is brimming with a bounty of idyllic islands and cays — over 2,000, in fact! I’ve traveled all over the globe and must confess that the Bahamas are home to some of the best (and quietest!) beaches in the world. My go-to recommendations? The private island of Baker’s Bay is bar-none when it comes to luxury. The Pink Sands Resort in Harbour Island is also a popular destination for the jet set. Paying a visit to the swimming pigs of the Exumas is always entertaining and Instagram-worthy. And for families, Atlantis in Paradise Island is IT. Don’t forget to nibble on some conch fritters while you’re there, too.