A hot Hamptons summer

It may not seem like it yet, but summer is quickly approaching — and if you’re hoping to spend the season in the Hamptons, you’d better act now. “This was the busiest winter we’ve had since 2005,” said Judi Desiderio, the CEO of Hamptons-based Town and Country Real Estate.

This season comes on the heels of a big 2013 for the Hamptons market, which saw 2,055 home sales according to Town and Country’s year-end report. (That’s up 26 percent from 2012.) Desiderio considers May 1 to be the cut-off date for those wanting to purchase a home and enjoy it this year; after that, she recommends a seasonal rental. “Stick your toe in,” suggests Desiderio. “See where you want to be.”

Here’s our roundup of the top Hamptons properties currently for rent or sale. From the best amenities to the most interesting décor, these homes will capture your attention and ensure happy a happy summer season — or many down the line.

Best starchitect’s touch

Robert A.M. Stern  —  known especially for his design of Manhattan’s tony 15 Central Park West  —  created this home on a 4.6-acre plot in Water Mill as “an interpretation of the Hamptons shingle-style home,” according to its listing. The spread asks $27.5 million. Inside the 6,100-square-foot home are seven bedrooms, five bathrooms and two half bathrooms. Outside, there are more than 300 feet of frontage and a dock on Mecox Bay. Sporty types can also enjoy a sunken all-weather tennis court, then a dip in the 42-by-20-foot gunite pool. Contact Harald Grant of Sotheby’s, harald.grant@sothebyshomes.com

Poshest package

If you’re feeling noncomittal — and have deep pockets — consider this 10-acre Southampton estate. From Memorial Day until Labor Day, you’ll have to shell out $950,000 — which makes this among the priciest rentals in the Hamptons— but there’s some serious bang for your buck: The 18,000-square-foot home has 12 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, three half bathrooms, plus staff quarters. There’s an indoor pool (with water slide!), outdoor pool, a grass tennis court, two pavilions, each with a full kitchen, and a carriage house with a greenhouse. And if you love the place: It’s for sale for $45 million. Contact Sotheby’s Harald Grant or Michaela Keszler of Douglas Elliman, michaela.keszler@elliman.com

Best taste of history

The Golightly Estate in Sagaponack, which dates to 1797, has been restored to modern, luxurious tastes. The rustic-chic main house — with its original chimney and wide-plank flooring — was renovated “nail by nail” in 2002, according to the marketing materials. The kitchen, for example, received a makeover with pieces imported from France. A horse barn, constructed in the 1800s, has been rebuilt into an entertainment space, where the lucky buyers or renters can screen a movie for 20. The price to rent this 5,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bathroom is $400,000 from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though there are other rental options. Looking to buy? You’ll have to pony up $12.95 million. Contact Sotheby’s Beate Moore, beate.moore@sothebyshomes.com

Best furnishings

If you’re an eclectic type in search of something turnkey, check out this chic, colorful $15.75 million for-sale-by-owner listing at 1051 Sagg Main Street in Sagaponack, which comes fully furnished. If you want to rent it, it costs $275,000 for July through Labor Day. The interior boasts bright pieces of furniture, zebra rugs and fun pops of reds, oranges and blues in all-white surroundings. And there’s also a touch of star quality to the place: The home has been featured in Traditional Home and Veranda, to name some publications. You can walk to the ocean, and naturally, there’s a pool, too. Contact seller via saggmainsagaponack.com