How to Do Montauk Like a Local (with Taste)

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - April Rose D'Andrea
Curated By

April Rose D'Andrea

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Luxury Travel

  • New York

  • Relaxation

Advisor - How to Do Montauk Like a Local (with Taste)
Curator’s statement

You don’t need a passport, or even a plane ticket, to feel transported. These luxe weekend getaways are within easy reach and long on style. Long Island summers are iconic, but sometimes you want to escape the escape and get the recharge you didn’t know you needed. As a luxury travel advisor based in New York, I help clients find those rare, relaxing stays where everything just flows: early check-in, great food, a spa robe, and the kind of exhale you can’t get from a staycation.

The Fora Difference

Book with April Rose to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Montauk

Unlock perks by contacting April Rose to book your trip.

Things to do in Montauk

The Surf Lodge

A Montauk institution for oceanfront sunsets, live music, and elevated beach vibes. Sip craft cocktails on the deck while watching the sun dip behind Fort Pond.

Montauk Brewing Company

A relaxed yet lively tasting room serving small-batch beers like the signature Wave Chaser IPA. Great for an afternoon hang with local flavor.

Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

A wellness-forward beachfront escape with a famed thalassotherapy spa, ocean-fed saltwater pool, and yoga classes overlooking the Atlantic.

Navy Beach

A toes-in-the-sand dining experience with rosé, seafood, and unbeatable sunset views. Chic but unfussy—perfect for an early-evening recharge.

Montauk Yoga Shala

A serene studio with Vinyasa and restorative classes just minutes from the beach. It offers pop-up events, sound baths, and a visiting instructor series.

The Leiber Collection

A hidden gem art gallery and museum featuring Judith Leiber’s iconic crystal handbag designs alongside modern art curated by her husband, Gerson Leiber.

Wölffer Estate Wine Stand (nearby in Sagaponack)

What to expect: The quintessential Hamptons wine moment. While not in Montauk proper, this spot is a must for golden hour vineyard sips before or after your drive east.

Duryea’s Lobster Deck

A casually upscale seafood-market-meets-restaurant with dockside picnic tables and views of the marina. The lobster Cobb salad is legendary.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

What to expect: Historic, scenic, and totally worth the walk. Snap panoramic views from Long Island’s easternmost tip, then pop into the museum for a quick maritime history fix.

Artist residencies at The Ranch

A unique gallery-meets-working-farm showcasing rotating exhibitions, sculpture gardens, and artist-in-residence programs. It offers contemporary art with a wild, coastal twist.

Places to eat & drink in Montauk

The Crow’s Nest

Iconic Montauk vibes. Dine under the twinkle lights with sunset views and a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Ideal for a slow, golden hour dinner after the beach.

Surf Lodge

Where the scene meets the sea. Come for the rosé, stay for the live music, oceanfront deck, and A-list people-watching.

Bagatelle Montauk

From St. Tropez to The End. This glam beach club brings high-energy brunches, seafood towers, and bottle service to the dunes.

Dioriviera Pop-up at Gurney’s

Luxury meets leisure. Sip Dior-branded coffee or cocktails at this haute summer takeover complete with striped loungers and exclusive Dior merch.

Bluestone Lane Montauk

Coffee with coastal charm. Grab your flat white or avocado toast at this breezy, Aussie-style café tucked inside the chic Ruschmeyer’s.

Naturally Good Foods & Café

Montauk’s OG health spot. Organic juices, smoothie bowls, and vegan-friendly bites. Ideal for a post-yoga pick-me-up or beachside picnic.

Montauk Brewing Company

Laid-back and legendary. Try the Summer Ale or Driftwood IPA, local favorites. Grab a can and head to the beach or fill a growler for the crew.

Sel Rrose Montauk

Seafood-forward and photo-ready. Known for oysters, chilled wine, and a boho-chic ambiance. A relaxed yet elevated spot for girls’ night or date night.

Tacombi Montauk

Tacos, but make it Hamptons. Beachy, casual, and consistently good. The corn esquites and margaritas are a must.

Duryea’s Lobster Deck

A Montauk institution. Waterfront lobster rolls, rosé, and sunset perfection. No frills, just pure East End charm.

Need to know

  • Book early: Montauk books up quickly during the peak summer season. Hotels, restaurants, and even parking spots can be limited, so plan ahead, especially for weekends.

  • Weekday escapes win: If your schedule is flexible, visit midweek to enjoy a more relaxed vibe and easier reservations.

  • Bring layers: Ocean breezes can make summer nights chilly. A light sweater or jacket goes a long way.

  • Beach access varies: Some beaches require permits for parking, especially Ditch Plains. Consider biking or using ride shares to avoid the hassle.

  • Support local: Montauk has a strong small business spirit. Skip the chain spots and enjoy local boutiques, farm stands, and family run eateries.

  • Cell signal is spotty: Download offline maps, your hotel details, and restaurant confirmations before you arrive, especially if staying near the lighthouse or Hither Hills.

  • Parking is precious: Download the ParkMobile app ahead of time and bring cash just in case some lots are cash-only.

  • Respect the pace: Montauk has a more laid-back, surf-town rhythm than the Hamptons. Embrace slow mornings, sunsets, and unplugged moments.

Advisor - April Rose D'Andrea

Travel Advisor

April Rose D'Andrea

Get in touch with April Rose

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can expect a response from April Rose within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New York page.