Beyond the Break: Scott Bradley’s Waterman Spirit and Real Estate Success

I admire Scott Bradley’s calmness. In the Hamptons, he especially stands out for his genuine NY Waterman lifestyle. A seasoned surfer and Hamptons real estate veteran, Scott embodies the calmness that flows through every local wave rider, a balance of ease and confidence born from years of navigating the rhythm of the sea.

Every surfer in the Hamptons I’ve met has this quality, in varying degrees. Don’t worry, I won’t wax philosophical about what exactly makes surfers tranquil or at ease (I will shred some gnarly surfing puns, though).

Scott’s approach to real estate is as steady and focused as his approach to the waves. Whether he’s managing a high-end property or a seasonal rental, he brings meticulous attention. This same poise has earned him respect and trust in the Hamptons real estate scene, where his steady hand guides both clients and colleagues.

Beyond the business, Scott is a devoted family man. He lights up when he talks about his wife and kids, a testament to the grounding presence of family in his life. Driven by a passion for life on (and in) the water, Scott’s journey has taken him around the world and right back to the Hamptons, where his love for the ocean continues to shape his life and work.

I ran into Scott at the 33rd Annual Amagansett Biggest Clam Competition (exactly what it sounds like), where he was holding court and catching up with what seemed like everybody who walked by. Hey, when you’re in charge of water safety in East Hampton, your name gets around.

What brought you to the Hamptons?

My passion for the ocean and the beauty of the East End is why I moved to the Hamptons in 1989. I was raised in Sayville, NY, on the Great South Bay, swimming, clamming, fishing, paddling, and spending endless hours surfing and lifeguarding on Fire Island. The ocean has always been my happy place, my temple, and somewhere I always felt safe and at home.

Where have you surfed around the world?

Over the past 50 years, I’ve traversed the globe, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Panama   Mexico, Hawaii, Portugal, Maldives, Puerto Rico, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Tobago, Trinidad, Barbados and the Dominican Republic.

Does your experience as a swimmer play a role in your work as a real estate agent?

It absolutely played a role. Being a competitive swimmer was a full-time job. I started swimming competitively at 6 yrs old and didn’t stop until I graduated from college. Swimming 6 days a week up to 10K yards daily taught me what hard work was all about. The discipline and focus to be a competitive swimmer prepared me for what it takes to be a successful real estate professional.

You’re extremely engaged in water safety in the Hamptons. What can someone do in terms of volunteering or helping?

Water Safety in our community has a long history, I was fortunate enough at age of 20 to meet John Ryan Sr. and my family taking my ocean recertification test at Main Beach. John Ryan Sr., John Ryan Jr. and their family have been the driving force in “WaterProofing the Community” for over 60+ years. They’ve established programming for children starting at ages 6-8 in The Nipper Jr. Lifeguard program, ages 9-15 in the Junior Lifeguard program, and ages 13-16 in The Open Water Cadet Program. We are always looking for donors and volunteers to support our programming.

Tell us about your role as Master SUP Instructor, Lieutenant in the East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue

As a Master SUP Instructor with ASI, I’ve traveled around the world educating Stand Up Paddle communities on ocean awareness and safety. ASI operates globally, setting international standards in outdoor recreation. Its mission is to deliver high-quality training, monitor safe standards, and provide a consistent international standard

I’ve had a variety of roles within East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue, Captain in charge of training, and a Squad Lt. for the East Hampton Village and Amagansett squads. EHVOR is an on-call first responder organization. We’ve been coming to the aid of water emergency victims 24 hours a day, 365 days a year since 2003. Providing rescue services for water-related emergencies

Did I read this correctly, 8 Ironmans??

Yes, I’ve competed in 9 Ironman, finishing 8. I found Ironman was a way for me to stay fit and allowed me to continue my travel and surfing exploration.

You’ve been a real estate agent for a long time in the Hamptons – what advice would you give to the young Scott Bradley, knowing what you know now?

The real estate business requires a 110% commitment and tremendous discipline to be successful. If you’re committed and driven, this is a great business that provides unparalleled autonomy.

Tell us more about 28 Pepperidge Lane.

Pepperidge Lane in Amagansett is a beautiful 2-acre property on a quiet cul-de-sa,c walking distance to Gardiners Bay and the Devon Yacht Club. This extraordinary property is a blank canvas for your dream Hamptons home. It currently has a fully permitted 4,000 +/- sq. ft. 5 bedrooms and 5.5-bath modern home ready to break ground today. Come check it out!

Tell me more about the NY Waterman Lifestyle.

NY Waterman Lifestyle has always been my dream. Being able to live in a community that was able to deliver all things water. Sharing my love and passion for the water and inspiring as many people as possible to literally diving in and experiencing the enjoyment.

Who’s winning in a family golf game?

Well, this is an easy one to answer. My son James Bradley is kicking my butt. He is currently a freshman playing collegiate golf. We’re excited to have him home this summer and ready for the busy summer of qualifying events.  James will be on the road most of the summer preparing to qualify as an amateur for the US Open, US Amateur Championship and NYS Open, as well as a host of other tournaments.

Your daughter Emma seems to be following in your footsteps, embracing the lifestyle and values you’ve always championed. Can you share a bit about what she’s up to?

Absolutely. Emma graduated early from Coastal Carolina with a degree in Spanish and communications, and she’s now living in Rincón, Puerto Rico—fully immersed in the surf culture I’ve always loved. It’s been incredible to watch her carve out her own path while still connecting to the things that have always been important to me. She’s working, living independently, and embracing the ocean every day.

Scott Bradley is proof that success in real estate—and life—is anchored by authenticity and passion. Whether it’s navigating the waves or guiding clients toward their dream homes, his steady presence makes all the difference. Interested in diving deeper into the Hamptons real estate market or embracing your own inner waterman? Connect with Scott—you might just catch more than a wave; you might find a lifestyle.

To learn more about Scott, click here.