Southampton - The holidays are in full swing here in the Hamptons, and this year, local businesses have much to be merry about. Reports from the Retail Council of New York State revealed that retail stores are thriving this holiday season, selling as much or more than they did last year. "Retail sales usually slip in the first two weeks of December as consumers recover from the Black Friday weekend shopping frenzy," said Retail Council President and Chief Executive Officer James R. Sherin, "Many consumers are clearly in a spending mood and we'll be eager to see if the momentum continues through the critical week before Christmas."

Tamara Comolli's stunning Ocean Jasper collection. (Tamara Comolli)

With only four days left until Christmas, it is time to finish up last minute shopping, party preparations, and scheduling dinner reservations. Rather than braving the traffic and heading to the malls this holiday season, why not explore all the South Fork has to offer? Businesses from Montauk to Westhampton are offering new merchandise, and special holiday promotions to make your holiday season extra special.

Spectacular Shopping In The Hamptons

If you're looking for the perfect gift for that special lady in your life, make sure to stop into Tarmara Comolli (27 Main Street, Southampton, 631-283-7600). Tamara's jewelry designs are chic, casual, yet luxurious, and perfect for women with more eclectic taste. Her combination of unusual metals, gemstones, and even leather chords create a sophisticated, unique piece of jewelry that will perfectly accent any outfit, from a cocktail dress, to jeans and a tee-shirt. Her designs are more than a piece of jewelry; they are a work of art. A piece from Comolli's bohemian chic collection of Ocean Jasper from Madagascar is an absolutely stunning gift; just the thing for the woman who has it all.

WellNEST in Sag Harbor offers a wide variety of gifts and decor for the body and home. (WellNEST)

For a woman with more classic taste, be sure to stop into Tiffany & Co (53 Main Street, East Hampton, 631-324-1700). From jewelry, to accessories, to the home, Tiffany & Co. offers a wide variety of beautiful designs. Nothing says Christmas like seeing that little blue box under the tree.

The Hamptons newest gem, WellNEST (125 Main Street, Sag Harbor, 631-899-4600), is a store for the whole family, where a knowledgeable staff will help you learn how to live a healthier life from the inside out. This store is fairly new to the area, having opened this past spring. Manager Emily Keogh said WellNEST has had great success so far in Sag Harbor, and is looking forward to a fantastic 2011. The store is constantly bringing in new merchandise to fulfill their mission of providing a home for optimal health and well being in the Hamptons.

If you're looking for that big-ticket item this Christmas, head over to Buzz Chew Chevrolet-Cadillac (656 County Road 39A, Southampton, 631-287-1000). With offers such as zero percent financing and cash back, now is the perfect time to put that big red bow on a shiny new car and bring it home. Buzz Chew specializes in new and certified pre-owned vehicles. From sports cars to SUV's to hybrids, Buzz Chew has a wide variety of vehicles to meet every families needs.

Visit White's Pharmacy in East Hampton for all your beauty, perfume and gift needs. (White's Pharmacy)

For gifts for the home, visit Sylvester & Co. (103 Main Street, Sag Harbor, 631-725-5012) where you'll find an assortment of new and vintage furniture and décor for the home. They have a wide variety of holiday items that make the perfect hostess gift for holiday parties.

Another store that boasts great items for the home, as well as beautiful gifts, is Hildreth's Department Store (51 to 55 Main Street, Southampton, 631-283-2300). Visit the Hildreth's website where you'll find a 10 percent off coupon that can be applied storewide. Great gifts include spa items, body lotions, candles, dinnerware, children's toys and games, clothing, wreaths, and more.

White's Pharmacy (81 Main Street, East Hampton, 631-324-0082) has been a staple shopping destination in the Hamptons for decades. From make-up, to perfume, to hair care, you'll find it at White's Pharmacy. Be sure to check out value sets from Clinique, Estee Lauder and Donna Karen. White's Pharmacy carries a wide variety of brands including Crabtree and Evelyn, La Mer, Molton Brown, Bobbi Brown, and much more. On Tuesday's, they will be offering a 15 percent off promotion in partnership with BookHampton so be sure to stop in and take advantage of this fabulous discount.

Party Planning

For those of you who are planning parties over the holidays, or even hosting a small dinner, it is time to get your home in tip-top shape and ready for the arrival of guests. For all your landscaping needs, turn to Mahoney Associates (321 County Road 39A, Southampton, 631-287-7666). Not only will they prune and primp your yard to perfection before an event, they are also available to clear snow and ice.

Berkoski ice sculptures, like this fireman, will take your party over the top this holiday season. (Berkoski)

To really add some excitement to your holiday party, contact Berkoski Enterprises (One Mariner Drive, Southampton, 631-283-4060) for stunning ice sculptures and shot luges. Ice sculptures come in a variety of shapes such as swans, shrimp platters, and much more. If you really want your guests to have some fun, try a Berkoski ice luge.

Dining Out In The Hamptons

It is no secret that the Hamptons boast some of the best restaurants around, and the holiday season is the perfect time to take a break from cooking and step out with the family for a fabulous brunch, lunch or dinner.

For a family friendly restaurant, be sure to visit LT Burger (62 Main Street, Sag Harbor, 631-899-4646). In the short time since its opening in July, LT Burger has established itself as a staple dining establishment in Sag Harbor. Thursday nights, LT Burger hosts a Jazz Night. The combination of fine dining and entertainment makes for a great holiday dinner location, and of course, don't forget to try the burger!

LT Burger in Sag Harbor not only boasts fabulous food, but a fun atmosphere as well. (LT Burger)

Bobby Van's Steakhouse (2393 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, 631-537-0590) is another favorite among local residents and visitors alike. While famous for their dry-aged steaks, it is their brunch that is out of this world. Their Eggs Benedict is truly a hidden treasure in the Hamptons and a wonderful place to take the family for Sunday Brunch after the Christmas holiday.

For more formal dining, visit French restaurant Le Chef (75 Jobs Lane, Southampton, 631-283-8581. Le Chef will be featuring a special holiday prix fixe menu on Christmas Eve, New Years Eve, and New Years Day.

Celebrating its 30th year in business, The Palm (94 Main Street, East Hampton, 631-324-0411) is a Hamptons tradition, and a favorite among celebrities like Billy Joel, Calvin Klein and Robert De Niro. Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day, The Palm is a great holiday location. They are even offering holiday gift cards, which are the perfect gift for a foodie friend or family member.

Take advantage of the beauty and holiday spirit in the Hamptons in the few days left before Christmas. (James Pezzella/flickr.com)