A laid back weekend on the East End.
This was our first time visiting Montauk and we had the best time. There’s something so relaxing about Montauk- it’s still a pretty slow, small town but has such great gems to visit, and is so close to the rest of the Hamptons that it’s a must-stay for families.
If you’re planning a beach escape with your family, a baby, or a group of girlfriends, this Montauk travel guide has everything you need: Where we stayed, where we ate, and the best spots to visit this summer.
Where We Stayed
Our home base for the weekend was this charming, historic property just above the town. The rooms are spacious and comfortable (perfect with a baby), and there’s a calm, easy energy throughout. It’s nothing fancy inside the rooms, but the grounds and amenities are perfect for a trip.
We loved that it wasn’t in the middle of the more touristy areas, too. Montauk can get busy, but this felt peaceful and relaxed since it wasn’t in the main downtown area.
Shoutout to D’Luca Travel for booking this one for us. It was the perfect place to land with a baby and start our weekend.
What to Eat
We could’ve spent another week going through my restaurant list, but these were the one’s that we loved and came highly recommended:
Lunch Lobster Roll – @lobsterrollofficial (Amagansett)
Shep and I stopped here on the drive in, and it completely set the tone. Hot lobster roll, fries, and a coke under the striped awning – it’s casual and iconic. We also stopped by the South Hampton location on the way out, but the Amagansett one is 1000x better. Save this spot for your arrival day!
Ditch Plains Beach + Food Truck Lunch
A beach location is Ditch Plains in Montauk. There is a great food truck at this location to grab lots of great food!
Gosman’s Clam Bar – @gosmansclambar
A Montauk staple. The seafood is fresh and simple, and the views are everything you want from a summer dockside lunch.
LDV at The Maidstone – @ldveastend at @themaidstonehotel
During our East Hampton day, we had lunch here and LOVED it. The property is so beautifully designed and the food was incredible. We sat outside under chic covers tables and it felt so European. There’s also a Sezane popup store in the very back of the restaurant that was so cute.
PS- If you’re staying in East Hampton, take a peek at The Hedges Inn, too. It’s newly opened and absolutely stunning. Think: The Colony Hotel meets the Hamptons.
Amber Waves Farm – @amberwavesfarm
We stopped here on our last day for flowers, snacks, and that sweet farm stand charm. We did visit on a Sunday afternoon on Fourth of July weekend, so it was packed but it was worth the wait. I grew up watching Ina Garten and Martha Stewart, and Ina mentioned this farm stand so much in her show that it was so fun to see how much it’s grown since the early 2000’s (and to see it in real life!)
What to Do
East Hampton Afternoon
We spent one day shopping, wandering around town, and admiring the homes. East Hampton feels more polished than Montauk, so this is where you’ll want to dress up a bit. Great restaurants, designer stores, and beautiful streets to explore.
Ina Garten Drive-By
Of course, we had to make the Ina stop! We drove by her house (although you can’t see it really due to her high hedges and I don’t blame her!) and the original Barefoot Contessa store location. A must if you’re a longtime fan 😉
Bakeries + Coffee Shops
Montauk has so many delicious spots to stop in while you’re shopping around town. One of our favorites was Hampton Coffee and Montauk Bake Shoppe.
The Surf Lodge – @thesurflodge
We didn’t make it there this trip, but it’s high on the list for next time for live music and cocktails. Very into how much of a fashion show it’s turned into, too.
Fourth Of July
We visited Montauk during Fourth of July weekend, which was so much fun. I can’t think of a better place to celebrate summer holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, or Fourth of July. There were fireworks on many beach locations and a few parades around the Hamptons. Do some research
Travel Notes
If you’re driving from the city, leave early. Summer traffic can add hours to your trip.
Make a day of it with stops in West, South, and East Hampton—stretch your legs, grab coffee, and break up the drive.
Montauk is best when you go with the flow a bit. Don’t over plan!
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