Cooper’s Beach Is Beautiful

I need a vacation. Bad. After a couple of 50+ hour weeks in the kitchen, I am ready to find a nice quiet place to take in some scenery and enjoy the outdoors. So, with a little free time finally on my hands, I started to do some research so I could figure out just where I want to go.

Sure, I could stay around here in the south, but I want to really get away. I want to hear a different accent, taste a new take on food, and feel like I’m really away. I also don’t want to go somewhere that is too much of a “tourist trap” full of people looking to see every site around, and not enjoying the calmness around them. So…where to go?

I searched every site I could find until I was overwhelmed with open tabs on my computer screen. I knew I wanted to be around water, but not just another river or lake. I get to see the big muddy Mississippi every single day, and the Arkansas River along with Lake Dardanelle (Russellville, Arkansas) has been my go to getaway for years already. No, I need a major change. Sure, Destin, Florida is a quick car ride from Memphis, but I want more than a change of scenery. I want a total lifestyle change.

Enter Cooper’s Beach. Heard of it? I hadn’t, but that was one reason why I want to go there. The other reason was what I found out about it after I started researching. The village of Southampton has over seven miles of oceanfront including Cooper’s Beach (which is the only beach regulated with lifeguard supervision). I read about grass covered sand dunes. Grass covered sand dunes? I know I’ve never seen a grass covered sand dune, at least not in person. I even want to check out the old, historic mansions including Calvin Klein’s place. On Wednesdays during the summer the village of Southampton hosts a free concert series, and I think this will be a great way to blend with the natives and really know I’m not in Kansas (well, Tennessee) anymore.

As far as lodging goes, I’m looking at A Butler’s Manor. This B&B is listed as one of (if not the best) in the area, and they are one of the sponsors of the concert series. The room decor is anything but southern, and the wood ceilings are simply something you don’t see in my neck of the woods.

What about the food? I’m looking forward to breakfast each morning at A Butler’s Manor where each breakfast starts with a course of fresh fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice, and house made breads, but I’m also keen on visiting The Southampton Publick House. A quick look at the beer list has me ready to try a few brews I’ve never had the pleasure of tasting, and I want to know just how good the Long Island clam and corn chowder might be. I know how I make chowder, and I’m always eager to rank another version of the classic.

I’m also informed that it is expensive, the price of parking at Cooper’s Beach is $40 alone, but my piece of mind is more than worth it. After all, why work so hard for my money if I can’t enjoy it.