Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Montauk, NY

  • Published 2022/05/28

A ray of sunshine in the alluring Long Island, Montauk is one of the best beach spots you can find in the United States.

The Hamptons is known for being one of the best weekend getaways for those who live in New York.

But did you know Montauk is one of the nicest places to visit with your nearest and dearest?

Not only does it have some of the sunniest beaches in New York, but it is also blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and adventure opportunities.

Once you visit the place, you will see that there’s much more to this hamlet than the famous Montauk Point Lighthouse.

Here are the best things to do in Montauk, New York:

Check Out the Montauk Point Lighthouse

Scenic view of Montauk Point Lighthouse

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Situated at the end of the peninsula, the Montauk Point Lighthouse is the biggest attraction in Montauk.

A trip to Montauk is never complete without stopping at its most famous landmark.

Constructed in 1796, it is the oldest lighthouse in New York.

The lamp of Montauk Point Lighthouse

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You’ll have to ascend a whopping 137 steps to get to the top of this vast lighthouse, from which you’ll be able to enjoy the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The lighthouse boasts some of the most beautiful sunrise views.

Try visiting at dawn so you can witness this breathtaking scene.

The view from Montauk Point Lighthouse

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Take Pictures at Montauk Point State Park

Daytime view of Montauk Point State Park

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Want to get a few snaps for your Instagram feed?

Head to the stunning Montauk Point State Park, which is always crowded with photographers and nature lovers.

You may even spot seals jumping out of the water at this scenic park.

There are a lot of trails along this park from where you can enjoy lively views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Enjoy a Breath of Fresh Air at Camp Hero State Park

Radar facility of Camp Hero State Park

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Keep walking until you reach the edge of Long Island, and you will come across the vast Camp Hero State Park.

This park remains unaltered and undisturbed even to this day.

Battery on the grounds of Camp Hero State Park

Transpoman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Formerly a military base, Camp Hero State Park is now a place where people can enjoy the enormous wilderness.

History buffs are bound to know about the various conspiracy theories about this place, which date back to WWII.

Visitors can go biking, hiking, horseback riding, or camping here.

Go Camping at Hither Hills State Park

Hither Hills State Park

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One of Long Island’s wonders, the vast Hither Hills State Park is well-known for its campgrounds.

It’s home to well over 190 campsites.

Camping in Montauk is synonymous with camping in Hither Hills State Park.

Sandy trail leading to Hither Hills State Park's beach

Webberalan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an entire week and not get bored.

The park has everything you’ll ever need from a campsite: undisturbed views of the Atlantic Ocean, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

You can go trekking along the Hither Hills State Park’s various trails.

The waters of Hither Hills State Park

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Have a Beach Day at Ditch Plains Beach

Surfer in Ditch Plains Beach

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In the heart of Montauk, you will be greeted with one of the best beaches out there: Ditch Plains Beach.

Are you a surfer looking for some big waves?

Surfer etiquette sign on Ditch Plains Beach

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Ditch Plains Beach is just the location for you.

If you aren’t interested in surfing, you can lie down on the beach and get a tan.

There are a lot of food trucks lined up along the beach where you can gorge on some delicious seafood or snacks.

A person heading to Ditch Plains Beach

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Get Pampered at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Aerial view of Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

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Want to stay in a resort in the middle of a lake?

Formerly the Montauk Yacht Club, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is the most luxurious place to be right in the middle of nowhere.

The resort and spa, situated on the Star Island of Montauk Lake, offers guests a unique and relaxing experience.

It’s designed in such a way that you’ll be greeted by a replica of the iconic Montauk Lighthouse once you set foot on the property.

There are villas, suites, and a private beach where you can sit back and rejuvenate yourself.

Go Boating in Lake Montauk

The waters of Lake Montauk

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Montauk Lake has an interesting story behind it.

In an attempt to transform part of Montauk into the “Miami Beach of the North,” Miami Beach developer Carl Fisher blasted the sandbar separating Montauk Lake and the Long Island Sound.

When he did this, he had no clue that it would one day become one of the hamlet’s landmarks.

A boat on Lake Montauk during sunset

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It’s now among Montauk’s most popular tourist spots, with people flocking to see this man-made salty lake all year round.

It is quite a lively place where lots of boating activities take place.

There is also a ferry system that brings people to nearby spots.

You can sit on the shore and enjoy a wide variety of seafood, as there are a lot of high-quality restaurants in the vicinity.

A bench overlooking Lake Montauk

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Admire Nature at Shadmoor State Park

Hoodoos at Shadmoor State Park

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Do you want to see some of the different natural beauties that Long Island has to offer?

Head over to Shadmoor State Park to enjoy the best of the best.

How about sitting on top of a bench overlooking the ocean?

At Shadmoor State Park, there are elevated benches led by two flights of stairs with almost 2,400 steps.

Sandy trail of Shadmoor State Park

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These are the best for watching various birds and the waves.

If you want, you can even have a picnic there overlooking the views of the oceans.

You can walk along the shore that offers some panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

It has an area of more than 99 acres of land for you to explore.

World war II observation bunker at Shadmoor State Park

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Go Horseback Riding at Deep Hollow Ranch

Entrance of Deep Hollow Ranch

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Ever dream of riding a horse along the sandy beaches of the beautiful coastline?

Montauk offers you a chance to make this dream come true.

Horses at Deep Hollow Ranch

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Deep Hollow Ranch allows you to ride horses gracefully along Montauk’s vast shorelines.

The exquisite beaches and countryside await you.

There are a lot of cowboys or cowgirls who will be there to guide you if you are not well-accustomed to horses.

Horses grazing at Deep Hollow Ranch

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Have a Luxurious Time at Navy Beach

Sunrise in Navy Beach

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Navy Beach is the epitome of luxury.

For those who want to experience a beach that boasts the same vibes as the Hamptons, Navy Beach should be your go-to location.

Navy Beach also has some historical significance.

It was a testing field during WWII, where the authorities removed torpedos.

Luxurious spas, resorts, and excellent restaurants are located on this beach.

Do try all the delicious seafood available here.

There are also some excellent cocktails you need to try.

Navy Beach is a go-to destination for celebrities, so don’t be too shocked if you spot at least one of them!

Treat Your Tastebuds to Fresh Seafood at Gosman’s Dock

Exterior of Gosman’s Dock

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Gosman’s Dock is the best place to enjoy top-class seafood while enjoying scenic views.

One of the best-loved places to eat in Montauk, the restaurant has been serving customers since 1943.

The former chowder stand is now a luxurious dining restaurant with rooftop dining opportunities as well as a bar and cafe.

Their menu items are always fresh and worth splurging on.

Gosman’s Dock opens its doors seasonally, so be sure to check out its schedule when planning your visit.

Shop and Dine at Montauk Village

Montauk Village

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Montauk Village is a highly fascinating place to roam around.

The cobblestone roads are well-maintained and feature an array of gift shops and cafes.

Exterior of a restaurant at Montauk Village

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Sit at one of these cute cafes, hang out for a while, and buy souvenirs for your friends or family.

You can also see a lot of shops and boutiques where you can browse through locally crafted products.

Don’t forget to try the local ice cream while you are in Montauk!

A flower shop at Montauk Village

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Play Golf at Montauk Downs State Park Golf Course

Welcome sign of Montauk Downs State Park Golf Course

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Montauk Downs State Park Golf Course is open to the public all year round.

The 18-hole course has been operating since 1927.

It’s been the epitome of recreation for golfers who live in and frequently visit Montauk.

It’s been redesigned and renovated a lot of times.

The final project was taken by the government of New York State in 1980.

Enjoy the Sun at Kirk Park Beach

The waters of Kirk Park Beach

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Want to bathe in the sun?

Kirk Park Beach is an essential part of Montauk.

It is quite close to Ditch Plains Beach and can be covered on the same day.

Spanning an area of about 500 feet, Kirk Park Beach is where tourists go to feel the sun on their faces.

You can find lifeguards roaming around, especially when the tide is high.

There are several hotels lined up along the beach in case you’d like to book a stay or enjoy a meal nearby.

Go Sport Fishing with Double D Charters

Double D Charters offers some of the best opportunities for sport fishing in Montauk.

The company has been around for over 20 years.

If you ask for recommendations for sport fishing, Double D Charters is usually the name you’ll hear first.

Catch sea bass, marlin, and tuna in the Atlantic Ocean.

Offering the best experiences, Double D has a lot of packages for you.

Join one of their sunset cruises and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Catch a Show at the Montauk Playhouse Community Center

Sign of Playhouse Community Center

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In Montauk, the multi-purpose Playhouse Community Center will almost always have something fascinating to do for visitors.

As the name suggests, the historic Montauk Tennis Auditorium, also known as the Montauk Playhouse, is situated in the village of Montauk, New York’s Suffolk County, right below Montauk Manor.

To serve as a centerpiece for Fisher’s planned resort in the 1920s, the structure was constructed in 1928-1929.

There are a variety of activities held at the Montauk Playhouse Community Center, including concerts and plays and outdoor concerts and plays.

Swimming and various other activities are offered in the aquatic center that is part of the complex.

Have a Splash with the Whole Family at Gin Beach

Are you looking for affordable ways to have fun with the whole family?

Gin Beach, located on Lake Montauk’s eastern shore, offers calmer waves and a family-friendly atmosphere.

There are fewer rip tides and currents here than in other beaches.

It’s perfect for families with small children.

Lifeguards and a rope marking safe swimming areas are also around for further protection.

You and your loved ones may have a fun-filled day together at this beautiful shoreline while spending time resting and connecting.

For instance, burying your children in the soft sand, building sandcastles together, having a picnic directly on the sand, and going for a dip in the cold ocean are great beach activities.

You may also enjoy a romantic sunset snuggle with your significant other while relaxing on the beach.

Go Whale Watching with the Viking Fleet

The Viking Fleet provides passenger ferry services between Montauk, New York, Block Island, Rhode Island, and New London, Connecticut.

There is something for everyone at the Viking Fleet, from a rapid ferry ride off the coast of Montauk to a fishing excursion to capture the bass and tuna that dominate the seas out here to an unforgettable whale-watching tour.

Taking advantage of the service’s North Atlantic location, you’ll have access to rare experiences that are stunning and emotionally stimulating.

In addition to the whales, dolphins, and aquatic turtles, you may also observe on a whale-watching excursion.

It features a separate vessel for Sunset Cruises and Private Charters while in season.

Chill at Montauk Brewing Company

A cup of beer at Montauk Brewing Company

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Montauk Brewing Company, which opened in 2012, is one of the most fantastic brewers in the region.

Take a break from the rain or the cold and have a few beers with friends or a loved one at this lively brewery.

It has a laid-back vibe, comfortable outside seating with umbrellas, and a wide selection of beers to taste.

Montauk Brewing Company is an excellent place to catch up with friends or loved ones while sipping on a crisp beer.

Before you leave, stop by their gift store to pick up souvenirs like hats, sweatshirts, and golf balls.

Final Thoughts

Montauk is like New York City relocated to the beach, but with a more relaxed back vibe.

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime if you choose Montauk as your getaway destination.

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