Montauk Day Trip: Everything To Know For An Exciting Day In Montauk

Montauk is the furthest east town in the Hamptons, in fact it’s located at the easternmost tip of Long Island’s South Fork.

The small town is famous for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, fishing, surfing, nightlife, and gorgeous beaches. 

Of the Hamptons towns, Montauk has one of the most unique vibes. It has more of a West Coast feel compared to the rest of the Hamptons which ooze East Coast charm. 

Its far east location makes it a bit challenging for a day trip, but it’s certainly not impossible.

Planning a day trip to Montauk and wondering how best to do it? I’m here to help!

First I’ll go through logistics of getting to Montauk and how to get around. Then I’ll cover a one day itinerary for your day trip to Montauk! (Already know how you’re getting to Montauk? Skip straight to the one day itinerary.)

Read on for everything you need to know about a Montauk day trip.

How To Get To Montauk

Below is information regarding how to get to Montauk.

You can find more detailed information over at: How To Get To The Hamptons.

By Car 

Montauk is about 120 miles, or 2 hours, 40 minutes from New York City. The drive is easy but can be delayed during high season due to traffic. 

By Train

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) departs Manhattan’s Penn Station with its last stop in Montauk.

Transit time is about 3 hours in each direction. If visiting during peak times, when traffic is heavy, this is a great option. 

The Montauk LIRR station is located near Fort Pond, just 1.5+ miles to downtown.

By Bus

One of the most convenient ways to get to the Hamptons is via the Hampton Jitney, a luxury liner with many routes between Manhattan and the Hamptons.

Transit time is about 3 hours in each direction. Just be aware, not all bus routes stop in Montauk. 

Fly

By far the fastest way to get to the Hamptons is by helicopter or plane. Scheduled and charter flights are available to the public via BLADE.

The ride is only about 35 minutes each direction. 

BLADE helicopters fly from various points in NYC to Montauk Airport. Their seaplanes fly from lower Manhattan to Montauk.

Additionally, BLADE’s Montauk Sky plane flies from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey to Montauk Airport.

Scheduled flights are available seasonally. Chartered flights can be arranged at any time. Services such as a the seaplane are charter only, no matter the season.

Ferry

The Viking Fleet offers fast ferries from New London, CT or Block Island, RI to Montauk.

Viking Fleet ferry service does not allow cars, so this option will only work for specific travelers. The seasonal ferry runs May – October and does not travel every day.

The Viking Fleet ferry docks at Montauk Harbor in Lake Montauk.

Driver/ Cab/ Ride Share

Another way to get to Montauk is by hiring a driver.

It’s possible to take a cab or ride share, such as Uber or Lyft, from New York City. However, the price will be very high. 

If planning to hire someone, I recommend hiring a black car service. It’ll cost about the same as a cab but with elevated service.

Hire A Tour Guide

Hiring a driver is great, but limited. They will drop you off and pick you up where you’d like, between that time, you’re on your own. 

If you’d like someone to drive you around the entire day, a tour guide is necessary.  

I’ve yet to find any group tours of the Hamptons. However, there are a few private tours available, this is especially great if you’re traveling with a small group.

The private tour itinerary is often customizable and provides a personalized experience. Going this route, you’re sure to have the best time without the stress of transportation. 

Check rates & availability for New York City to the Hamptons Private Day Trip here

Getting Around Montauk 

Montauk is small and walkable in areas, but it’s necessary to have a car if you wish to see all the highlights. 

Car Rental In Montauk 

There are no car rental companies in Montauk. However carshare companies like Turo may be available.

Rent A Bike In Montauk

It’s definitely possible to get around Montauk by bike.

Check out rentals at companies like Montauk Cycle Company or Montauk Surf & Sports. Regular and electric bikes are available.

It’s best to reserve bikes in advance if possible.

Walking Around Montauk

Montauk is more walkable than other Hamptons towns. Shops, restaurants, and beautiful beaches are all within walking distance of each other.

However, if you want to go out to Montauk Point Lighthouse or the marina on Lake Montauk, you’ll either need to be prepared for a long bike ride or catch a ride.

Get A Ride

It’s possible to get Uber in Montauk. Just be aware, it’s not always timely or reliable. Cabs are available via MTK Taxi.

There’s also a free shuttle bus around the East End called the Hampton Hopper. 

Montauk Day Trip Itinerary 

Montauk Point State Park & Montauk Point Lighthouse 

Located in Montauk Point State Park is New York’s oldest lighthouse, aptly named Montauk Point Lighthouse. It’s definitely the most famous attraction in Montauk.

The 1796 lighthouse sits on a small point surrounded by water on 3 sides. The area offers excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound.

On clear days you can even see out to Rhode Island and Connecticut, or watch the fishing boats in the distance. It really highlights why Montauk is nicknamed, “The End”.

If you wish to learn more about New York’s first lighthouse and Montauk’s history, be sure to stop by the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum. You can also go to the top of the lighthouse with museum admission! There’s great views from the top.

This is a great spot to enjoy the views, go for a walk, or fish. Despite the ample shoreline though, it’s not a place most sunbathe or lounge at the beach. 

Montauk Point State Park has a large parking lot for a small, per-vehicle fee.

Those arriving by bike, or being dropped off, do not need to pay state park admission.

The park’s admission allows you to visit any other New York state park during the same day, for no extra cost. If time permits, it’s also worth checking out Shadmoor State Park, which has incredible beach cliff views. Or Camp Hero State Park, famed for its military base which inspired the cult-hit, Stranger Things. 

You can read all about fascinating Camp Hero State Park here: Camp Hero State Park Things To Do. 

Visit The Beach

After a morning at the lighthouse, it’s time to hit the beach! No doubt, this is definitely one of the best things to do during your day trip to Montauk!

Kirk Park Beach is centrally located near town and has gorgeous white sand beaches overlooking the Atlantic. Amenities on site are basic — restrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal food truck.

Kirk Park Beach does offer daily parking passes at $35/ vehicle. You can also find parking in town, then walk to the beach, although street parking is limited to two hours.

If visiting over a summer weekend, it’s best to get to the beach first thing in the morning to secure parking. Those visiting on a non-holiday week day or in shoulder season should be fine visiting the lighthouse first, then heading to the beach.

Note: Many Hamptons beaches are free and open to the public, but beach parking is not free. Parking rules and rates are regularly changing. Before heading out, check out Town of East Hampton Beaches for up-to-date and accurate information. Those without a car can walk, bike, or be dropped off at any public beach without a permit or fee. 

Tip: Ditch Plains Beach is another popular spot in Montauk, it’s especially fun to watch the surfers here. However, there are no daily parking passes at this much-loved beach. You’ll need to get a ride or take your bike, unless you have a season parking pass.

The Lobster Roll

If you’d rather skip out on the beach and want grab lunch at one of the Hamptons most beloved establishments, head to Lobster Roll instead.

This relaxed restaurant has been a Hamptons icon since the 60’s. It’s located right off Montauk Highway, you can’t miss it, just look for the giant “LUNCH” sign.

If you’re not into lobster rolls don’t worry, they have a full menu with delicious seafood options, burgers, even a plant based menu. 

Tip: The Clam Bar at Napeague is located just down the way and is another great place for a laid-back vibes and local seafood!

The Lobster Roll is located off Montauk Highway in Amagansett, 6 miles from downtown Montauk. It’s an easy place to stop on your way in or out of town.

Shop & Explore Downtown Montauk

After some R&R at the beach or lunch at Lobster Roll, head into town and explore the shops. 

There are a number of cute souvenir shops, boutique clothing stores, art galleries, surf gear, and vintage finds throughout downtown Montauk. Plus yummy places to grab a bite to eat.

The downtown area is centered around Montauk Highway, roughly from Kirk Beach to Essex Street, it’s small and easy to get around by foot.

Montauk Brewing Company

If you’ve had enough exploring and you’re ready to kick back with a drink, head on over to Montauk Brewing Company.

Located in a small red barn in the heart of Montauk, this is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.

Montauk Brewing Company produces everything on site here in Montauk. Impressive considering the local brews are much-loved throughout NYC and the rest of the state.

Overall, this is a great place to enjoy a cold brew on a patio!

The brewery is located within walking distance of downtown Montauk.

Where To Eat In Montauk

Montauk has some of my favorite restaurants in the Hamptons, it’s hard to go wrong here.

It’s also one of the few Hamptons towns with true waterside dining. For this reason, I’d head on over to Lake Montauk for dining on the water during my one day in Montauk. 

The Crow’s Next or The Dock Bar & Grill are my preferences (Gosman’s Dock was a favorite of mine but they’ve temporarily closed – they’re worth considering if reopened by the time you’re reading this!).

For dining right in town, check out Tauk at Trails End, The Harvest on Fort Pond, Muse at The End, or for breakfast, Anthony’s Pancake House.

For a quick bite check out Joni’s, Happy Bowls, Round Swamp Farm Market, or Montauk Market Cafe.

For sunset drinks, live music, and light bites overlooking the water, check out The Montauket. 

As mentioned previously, for an excellent Lobster Roll in a low-key setting, you’ll love the iconic Lobster Roll (AKA LUNCH).

These are just a few of the great dining options in Montauk.

Additional Things To Do In Montauk:

Below are some additional things to do during your one day in Montauk:

• Visit the Montauk Indian Museum.
• Catch a live concert at Surf Lodge.
• Go horseback riding at Deep Hollow Ranch.
• Attend a festival.
• Explore Shadmoor State Park or Hither Hills State Park.
• Go fishing.
• Golf at Montauk Downs State Park Golf.
• Enjoy water sports like kayaking & stand up paddle boarding.
• Go for a wine tasting at Wölffer Estate Vineyard (about 30 – 45 minutes away, in Sagaponack).

For lots more ideas, check out The Best Things To Do In Montauk.

Where To Stay In Montauk

Montauk has one of the widest ranges of hotels in the Hamptons, from simple beach motels and charming boutique hotels to larger resort-style properties. It’s also one of the only places in the Hamptons where you’ll find true beachfront hotels.

If staying for just one night it may be worth splurging on one of the town’s luxury stays like Gurney’s or Marram.

Below are a few additional hotel options:

• Luxury: Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa
• Mid-range: Hero Beach Club
• Budget-friendly (by Montauk standards): Daunt’s Albatross

For more hotel ideas and additional details, check out my guide to The Best Hotels In Montauk, New York.

When To Plan Your Day Trip To Montauk 

Summer

Summer is peak season in Montauk. Visiting this time of year is a no brainer, the beaches are sunny and warm, all businesses are open, and there’s an unbeatable energy to the area. There’s really nothing like Montauk in summer.

The only downsides: it can be crowded and traffic is heavy.   

Winter

Winter on the far east end is cold and quiet. The weather is chilly and the beaches are silent except for the howling of wind. 

On the plus side, crowds are non-existent, making for a peaceful getaway.

Not all business are open, but you’ll still find a variety of shops and restaurants which remain open year-round.  

If visiting in the off season, check out Top Things To Do In The Hamptons In The Winter.

Fall 

Fall is a really lovely time of year to visit the Hamptons.

The summer crowds have thinned out but pleasant weather remains. It’ll be too cold for sunbathing, but there are days when it’s warm enough to lounge out at the ocean in a light sweater.

Most restaurants and shops are still open this time of year. 

Spring

Spring is often rainy and grey but (usually) begins to give way to pleasant weather in late April.

It’s usually too cold for beach going. Seasonal businesses begin to slowly reopen as summer months approach. 

What To Pack For Your Montauk Day Trip

When packing for a day trip to the Hamptons, there’s a few things you should have on hand.

Of course, a practical outfit with comfortable shoes will be necessary for a long day. However, you may also need items like a portable phone charger, sun protection, and cash. Some businesses in the Hamptons still operate on cash only.

If visiting the beach, you’ll also need practicalities such as toiletries to clean up after sunbathing and two towels. One towel to get sandy at the beach and one for cleaning off after the beach.

Regarding outfit choices, airy summer garments like cotton pieces, maxi dresses, linen sets, and “beach to dinner” outfits are always perfect for summer in Montauk.

The Hamptons style is upscale but laid-back, especially so in Montauk which has held on to its young, surf-friendly atmosphere.

For a more comprehensive guide, check out What To Wear In The Hamptons.

Montauk Day Trip Packing List:

• Casual, comfortable outfit
• Light cover up
• Comfortable shoes
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Snacks
• Cash
• Portable phone battery
• Backpack
• Bathing suit (if going to the beach)
• Sandals (if going to the beach)
• 2 microfiber towels (if going to the beach)
• Travel toiletries (if going to the beach)
• Wet bag (to store wet swimsuit)
• Beach bag (optional, if going to the beach)

A day trip to Montauk can be a lovely getaway! Its remote location definitely requires planning, but with some organization, a day trip here will be so fun.

I hope you have a great time and enjoy all Montauk has to offer.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Hamptons and New York guides below.