Montauk, once a quiet surf town at the tip of Long Island, has transformed into a stylish getaway for New Yorkers. Known for its wild nightlife, luxury resorts, and miles of coastline, it’s the place where city energy meets ocean calm. While hotel prices can soar, especially in summer, travelers who plan smartly with HomeExchange can enjoy this seaside escape without breaking the bank.

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Beaches That Define Montauk

Montauk is above all about the beach. With Ditch Plains Beach for surfers, Gin Beach for calm swimming, and Hither Hills State Park for families, every stretch of sand offers something different. More secluded spots like Amsterdam Beach and Turtle Cove are perfect for quiet afternoons, while the beach outside the Sloppy Tuna bar draws a lively 20- and 30-something crowd with music and parties.

Sunset and Style at The Surf Lodge

When the sun goes down, The Surf Lodge is the place to be. Overlooking the bay, it combines dining, music, and a lively bar atmosphere. It’s so popular that lines form quickly on weekends reservations are the safest way in.

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Montauk Brewing Company: A Local Taste

Nothing says summer like a cold beer in the sun. At Montauk Brewing Company, visitors sip pints or flights in the backyard of a small red brewery that’s become a local favorite. Their beers are found across New York, but enjoying one fresh at the source feels special.

A Lighthouse at the “End of the World”

The Montauk Lighthouse at Montauk Point State Park is the oldest in New York State. Perched on dramatic cliffs where Long Island meets the Atlantic, it has guided sailors since 1797. Today, families climb to the top for panoramic ocean views and snap photos at what locals call “The End of the World.”

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Food, Fun, and Nightlife

Montauk’s food scene ranges from rustic to refined. Goldberg’s Bagels is the go-to breakfast spot, with lines forming early for smoked salmon bagels. The Crow’s Nest and Navy Beach both shine at sunset with menus built around seafood and local ingredients.

When night falls, the party continues. Ruschmeyer’s blends dining and dancing in a cabin-style space, while the Memory Motel — sticky floors and all — is where nights stretch until dawn. For live music, 668 The Gig Shack offers a more laid-back vibe.

Active Escapes in Nature

For those looking to move beyond bars and beaches, Montauk has plenty to offer. Take a surf lesson with Coreyswave or Sunset Surf Shack, ride horses at Deep Hollow Ranch, or hike through Camp Hero State Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs and prime fishing spots.

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Where to Stay in Montauk

Montauk has a reputation for expensive hotels — peak summer weekends can start at $700 a night. Out of season, prices are lower, but many venues close.

For families looking to save, HomeExchange offers a smart alternative, giving travelers the chance to enjoy Montauk like locals — with a full kitchen, space for everyone, and none of the sky-high hotel bills. Cooking breakfast at “home” before hitting the beach makes a big difference in a destination as pricey as Montauk.

Getting There

Reaching Montauk from New York City can take several forms:

  • Car: About 2.5 hours without traffic.
  • Train: The Long Island Railroad runs from Penn Station (3.5–4 hours).
  • Jitney Bus: Comfortable, with snacks and drinks, but traffic-prone.
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Final Thoughts

Montauk has evolved from a surf town to a playground for New Yorkers, but it hasn’t lost its coastal charm. Whether you’re watching the sunset at Navy Beach, exploring the Montauk Lighthouse, or grabbing a bagel at Goldberg’s, it feels both sophisticated and laid-back. With HomeExchange, families can enjoy the best things to do in Montauk without worrying about expensive hotels — leaving more time and budget for the experiences that matter most.

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