Montauk N.Y. is a very special and unique place. The blue/green ocean water, pristine beaches and fresh air beckon visitors to the tip of Long Island each year.  Unlike the towns to the west (East Hampton,etc.), Montauk has a more relaxed and laid back vibe.  In a recent two day adventure we were able to get a taste of Montauk and not spend a fortune.

There are numerous lodging options in the area, Montauk Manor is where we stayed. See our article here.

After more exploring  the small downtown, we ventured a few short miles east to the very tip of Long Island to Montauk Light House.  The light house authorized by President George Washington in 1792 and completed in 1796.  This remarkable historic landmark has been preserved for us to visit and enjoy its views from the property.   The fee to enter the lighthouse is $11 which gives you access to the point, the historical exhibits at the base of the light, you can climb the winding 137 steps to the very top.  The views are tremendous as you can see Block Island, Rhode Island, Connecticut and way out over the Atlantic. https://montauklighthouse.com

Beaches and Parks: Montauk is known for its beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.  Kirk Beach is right in town and features free parking) and you can walk easily into town. Ditch Plains is famous for surfing but  requires a parking permit. Some hotels may offer shuttles. Other  than a food truck there is no services there.  We checked out the beach right in town, at the base of South Edison St where parking is tight but the beach and water were fantastic (the parking is free). You can also easily walk into town, and the Sloppy Tuna bar and restaurant is right on the beach.   We spent the day here, and strolled up to the 2nd floor deck of the Sloppy Tuna for cocktails and to enjoy the awesome view.

Eats:  there are many dining options in Montauk for you to explore.   Here are two we experienced.  The Sloppy Tuna, a bar/restaurant located right on the beach in town.  The two story building is laid back and could be in any beach town from Montauk to the Keys.  It has an outside bar area where people gather in the afternoon, a large open bar room on the first floor for the late night crowd, and the upstairs eatery and bar with sun deck.  Upstairs is the casual dining area and the deck with panoramic views of the beach and the ocean.   We enjoyed sipping  margaritas and the huge rum filled “Chum Bucket” served in a small plastic bucket.    There is a wide selection of apps and mains, salads and side dishes.

We sampled the Lobster Roll which was large, fresh and delicious. Served with fries it was the perfect food as you watch the waves crash down on the beach.  You cannot visit Montauk without partaking in this delicacy.   As the sun slowly set and we were cooled by the breeze, we also enjoyed the Grilled Ahi Tuna Steak Sandwich.  This was a thick slice of perfectly cooked tuna on a bun that was delicious and filling.  Not a seafood lover?  Sloppy Tuna has chicken, beef and veggie options as well for everyone in your party.  Add some fun drinks and that view and you have a fun and memorable dining experience. http://www.lisloppytuna.com  Located on the beach 148 S Emerson St.

In town is a fun laid back Mexican restaurant, Tacombi.  This casual eatery with locations in Manhattan has recreated a vibe that echoes 1970s era Acapulco Mexico.  Even the sound track wafting through the eatery is 70s rock, though some modern tunes are thrown in .  The interior is basic with painted metal tables and chairs further enhancing the Mexican beach eatery vibe.

The food is first rate and Tacombi uses the freshest of ingredients when crafting traditional Mexican dishes.  Starters include items such as tuna or avocado tostadas, street corn and rice and beans.    Tacos make up the largest part of the menu with delicious choices ranging from shrimp, chicken, pork, beef to a healthy and light veggie option.  This is a fun laid back restaurant with something for everyone.   Located at 52 Montauk Highway. http://tacombi.com

What is a trip to the beach without some ice cream.  A fixture in Montauk for decades has been John’s Drive In at 677 Montauk Highway.  By the lines at the counter in the evening,  you can see this local stand is a favorite with its fresh soft serve and hard ice cream.   John’s also offers burgers, shakes, and wraps, but we can only report on the creamy smoothness of the soft serve ice cream.

Montauk’s laid back casual atmosphere was just what we needed to charge our batteries. There is a lot to see and do and we only just touched the surface on this special place. In 48 hours we had a lot of fun and hope to return soon.

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