Sunny Hostin has spent the last 20 summers soaking up rays in Sag Harbor Hills, where she rents a home. (“I hope the owner will sell it to me one day,” she tells Alexa. “I am patient.”)
It’s not unusual for neighbors like fellow “The View” host Joy Behar to show up on the front porch, or for former CNN anchor Don Lemon to pull his boat up to the bay for a visit.
Hostin, 54, often walks into town with her orthopedist husband, Emmanuel, and their kids Gabriel, 20, and Paloma, 17, for “the best breakfasts, coffee and doughnuts” in the world.
But the area is more than just a vacation destination for the best-selling author and former federal prosecutor — it’s the setting of her latest novel, “Summer on Sag Harbor” (William Morrow), the second in a planned trilogy.
“Sag Harbor is one of the only beachfronts where Black people were allowed to buy property, so it has this rich history that I wanted people to know about,” she says. “It’s also where my family, friends and I have some of our most cherished memories. Lin-Manuel Miranda once told me to ‘write what you know and write what you love.’ I love a good beach read, and I love the beach!”
Here, Hostin lets us in on her favorite Sag Harbor haunts.
“You can buy spring, summer and winter essentials here. Think: really cute matching sweats at such reasonable prices.”
“Summer on Sag Harbor” by Sunny Hostin, $30 at Sag Harbor Books“My hope is that readers will follow my lead protagonist Olivia’s journey to find who they are, what they need, who to trust and who to love.”
Paul Wagtouicz“When I want dinner and good vibes, this is where I head! It has an energetic ambience, beautiful people and fabulous authentic Italian food. Do not skip shopping at Donna Karan’s Urban Zen, which is right there!”
“This is my go-to when I need something for our home. It’s the perfect classic beach style. I could furnish every room with their inventory!”
“In this luxurious but cozy spot, skilled practitioners will pamper you and elevate your senses. You’ll leave feeling as good as you look.”
“You’ll find everything you need here while in Sag — from toothpaste and stationery to cleaning supplies and even Halloween costumes — they are open year-round!”
“I like to sip on their signature coffee while checking out their fabulous accessories and endless lifestyle finds! They have everything from home goods to fashion and beauty.”
Getty Images/Foodcollection“I shop here for wine. Ask for Sue. She always points me in the right direction. And a must for me while sipping Champs is always the Brillat-Savarin cheese sold in the cheese shop.”
Sen, 23 Main St.
“The spicy ramen is a personal favorite in my family! But this fixture of Sag Harbor consistently serves high quality sushi and cocktails.”
Shutterstock / Koltsov“It is so relaxing to paddleboard into the open bay and watch the sailboats go by.”
Shutterstock / Earth Earth“You can find me at this sophisticated destination for local characters and visitors. I love catching up with Joy Behar for brunch here. The eggs Benedict is on point. Pro tip: This place has one of the country’s most notable wine cellars.”
“I can go sit with neighbors, and experience exceptional films and cultural events here. Be sure to head to the rooftop bar, The Green Room, for a proper sunset and great cocktails.”
