One Tank Trip: Montauk

Established in 1660 and affectionately called "The End" by locals, Montauk is known for magnificent beaches and unending miles of natural wilderness and state parks. Located at the very tip of Long Island's South Fork, Montauk is removed from Hamptons hype with a personality and pulse all its own. If you want to enjoy the scene without forgoing nature's wild beauty, gas up the car and head for The End.

Getting There 

Take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to Exit 70 in Manorville, change to the Manorville Road (County Rd. 111) to the Sunrise Highway (Route 27 East) and drive to the very end.  

Things To Do

Montauk boasts 13 National Parks and some of the most magnificent public beaches to be found anywhere in the world. In addition to sun bathing, hiking and enjoying nature's wonders, visitors can also enjoy the following.

Montauk Point Lighthouse
2000 Montauk Highway
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-2544
www.montauklighthouse.com

The Lighthouse's historical roots extend back to George Washington, who authorized its construction in 1792. It is the oldest lighthouse in New York State and the fourth oldest working lighthouse in the entire country. The lighthouse was vital to international shipping in and out of New York during the Federal period, and continued to protect the East End during WWII. Visitors can climb its winding staircase to the utmost top, which is over 110 feet high. Artifacts on display include a vast array of whaling industry memorabilia, local photographs and original documents signed by Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.

Deep Hollow Ranch
10 Old Montauk Highway
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-2744
www.deephollowranch.com

Astonishingly, the oldest working cattle ranch in the country was not established in the Old West but rather, right here in Montauk. Considered to be the birthplace of the American cowboy, family-run Deep Hollow Ranch was established in 1658 and is still a working ranch today. Visitors can enjoy small or privately guided horseback rides along the South End's magnificent wild terrain and pristine coastline. Educational wagon tours and Native American presentations keep Montauk's historical roots and culture alive.

Dining

Fuel up with some of Montauk's best cuisine at these local dining establishments.


Dave's Grill
468 W. Lake Drive
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-9190
www.davesgrill.com

This waterfront bastion of fine dining pays homage to Montauk's thriving fishing community and discretionary palate. A favorite of locals and visitors alike, Dave's Grill offers up exemplary cuisine without pretension. Don't miss the butter-poached lobster roll or cornmeal-dusted calamari.

Harvest on Fort Pond
11 S. Emery St.
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-5574
www.harvestfortpond.com

It's hard to call which is better: Harvest's delectable, family served-style food or its magnificent and tranquil views. A rustic gem, Harvest's menu is Tuscany inspired and features entrees ranging from seafood specialties like shrimp and spaghetti to the not-to-be-missed 32-ounce porterhouse steaks. Try very hard to leave room for dessert. The fresh fruit ice cream sandwich is legendary and the tiramisu will haunt your dreams until you return.

Shopping

The village of Montauk features multiple winding streets filled with charming shops ranging from hipster-tourist chic to elegant.

Vintage Pink
787 B Montauk Highway
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-8200
www.facebook.com/pages/Vintage-Pink

Make sure you follow the painted-pink sidewalk to this hidden gem. A combination of Zen tranquility and antique whimsy, Vintage Pink is the home of pigs that fly and guardian angels. If you need a treat for yourself or lovely gifts for others, this mother-daughter operated shop is a must-visit.

Montauk Clothing Company
787 Montauk Highway
Montauk, NY 11954
(631) 668-1281
www.montaukclothing.com

You won't want to resist the Montauk-themed sweatshirts, tee shirts and jammies found here for the whole family. Stylish touristas nab up infant onesies and beachy-themed jewelry beautiful enough to wear when you return to the nine-to-five.

Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.