Montauk Village and Beaches

Montauk is the far end of the South Fork and has a character all its own. The village is a casual mix of seafood shacks, surf shops, motels, bars and boutiques, and it still has the feel of a fishing town even as it has become a fashionable weekend destination. The beaches are the draw: Ditch Plains is the surf spot, Hither Hills has dunes and a long beach with a state park campground, and the ocean beaches near the village are wide and open. Camp Hero State Park, a former military base, offers bluff trails and a sense of Cold War history. A scavenger-hunt style outing gives structure to a first visit, taking you around the village with clues and local stories.

Start in the harbor, where charter boats, party boats and the commercial fishing fleet come and go, and where lobster and fish are sold fresh. Fishing trips are a long tradition in Montauk, which is known for striped bass, bluefish and tuna offshore, and half-day boats often welcome beginners. Walking the docks in the late afternoon, when the boats return, is a good free activity, and several waterside restaurants serve the catch with a view.For beaches, choose by mood.

Ditch Plains attracts surfers and has a laid-back crowd, with a small taco stand nearby in summer. Hither Hills State Park has a wide beach, walking dunes and a camping area. Closer to the village, the ocean beaches are broad and suitable for families, with lifeguards in season. Swimming is best in July to September, when the water has warmed, but the surf can be strong, so follow the lifeguards. Off-season, the beaches are empty and good for winter walks, and many shops close, so check hours.

Camp Hero State Park occupies a bluff with abandoned military structures and a former radar tower. It has trails and sea views, and its slightly eerie atmosphere has inspired stories and films. Stay on marked paths and respect closures, because some structures are unsafe. Nearby, Deep Hollow Ranch offers horseback rides, and the ranch claims a long history as one of the oldest in the country.

Whale watching and seal watching tours run in season and are a good wet-weather alternative when conditions allow.Practical notes: Montauk fills up fast in July and August, and parking at beaches can require permits or fees.

Traffic on Montauk Highway can be heavy on summer weekends, so consider the Long Island Rail Road or the Hampton Jitney. Hotels range from motels to resorts and rarely have last-minute availability in peak season. A self-guided hunt works well for groups who want to explore without a guide, and it suits families and friends who like puzzles. Wear sunscreen and bring a towel, even for a village walk, because the beach is never far.