Nestled on the East End of Long Island’s South Fork, this idyllic coastal hamlet quietly draws celebrities and New York City elites seeking refuge from the summer heat of the concrete jungle. Editors Britney Eschelman and Megan Shelton have scouted the best places to stay, eat, drink, and explore in Montauk for the perfect weekend escape. Pro tip: while it's a summer hotspot, this trendy destination might be even better in the fall.
Where To Stay
Montauk Yacht Club
Set on 16 acres along Lake Montauk, Montauk Yacht Club is one of the East End’s defining waterfront destinations, anchored by the Hamptons’ largest marina and long-standing nautical culture. For 2026, the property expands beyond yachting with a season of elevated programming spanning wellness, sport, and family focuses designed to unfold directly on the water’s edge. Highlights include a floating Elemis at The Floating Wellness Cabana offering restorative facials and body treatments in an immersive setting atop the lake and the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience with pro-led lessons. Guests can also anticipate SUP tours and e-bike rides that showcase Montauk from sea and shore. Also debuting for Summer 2026 is The Courts, a fully reimagined racquet center, including Padel, tennis, and pickleball; programming ranges from clinics and lessons to tournaments, court rentals, and dedicated kids’ camps for all levels. With the introduction of The Salty Club for families, the hotel evolves into a 360º coastal playground where wellness, sport, and waterfront living effortlessly coincide.
Where To Eat
Alba Spiaggia
New to the “End of The World” this summer is the highly anticipated Alba Spiaggia, which brings a new Italian rhythm to Lake Montauk. Taking over the former Ocean Club at Montauk Yacht Club, this is the Hamptons extension of Chelsea’s Cucina Alba. Designed as a true waterfront dining experience, it welcomes guests by land or boat via marina slips, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the pool and lake. The menu leans into open-fire cooking, centering on wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, seasonal seafood, and antipasti shaped by what’s freshest on the East End.
Barlume Beach
Opened over Memorial Day Weekend 2026, Barlume Beach is LDV Hospitality’s latest Hamptons expression of Barlume, set across a 40,000-square-foot waterfront overlooking Montauk Harbor. Interiors channel a palette of turquoise, sun-washed golds, and textured materials, shifting from relaxed daytime lounging to a music-driven evening atmosphere, with unobstructed water views throughout. The cocktail program leads with unbeatable spritzes and a Coconut Espresso Martini that has quickly become a signature. Dishes lean coastal and refreshing with a touch of indulgence, from a Spread Sampler and raw bar selections like East Coast oysters and Bluefin Carpaccio to the vibrant Barlume Salad, Cacio e Pepe e Tartufo pasta, and a Chilled Lobster Roll that can be elevated with truffle or caviar.
Where To Drink
Talya
As the sun dips below the horizon, Talya transforms into one of Montauk’s most sought-after reservations for cocktails, conversation, and late-night revelry. Blending the spirited energy of a Mediterranean beach club with effortless Hamptons glamour, the atmosphere is lively, stylish, and undeniably magnetic. The crowd is ready to dance, expertly crafted cocktails flow all night long, and the setting feels suspended between the Greek Isles and the French Riviera. Talya delivers a nightlife experience that is transportive yet distinctly Montauk. Find even more vivacity and DJ sets upstairs at Bounce Beach.
Surf Lodge
Those who’ve spent any time on “The End of the World” (or watched Bravo’s Summer House) know that Surf Lodge is the ultimate place to see and be seen in Montauk. Start the night early with light bites and crushable cocktails at the recently unveiled culinary concept, Casa Sereña–it makes transitioning over to The Deck for the evening’s live performance that much easier (though it is necessary to purchase tickets in advance on top of the reservation). As the sun sets, the buzzy musical guest takes the stage. Dance the night away right on The Deck and along their private beachfront.
Where To Visit
Montauk Point Lighthouse
Perched at the easternmost point of Long Island, Montauk Point Lighthouse offers breathtaking 360º views of the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound. Commissioned by President George Washington in 1792, this iconic touchstone is the oldest lighthouse in the state of New York and the fourth-oldest active lighthouse in the United States. Visitors can explore the museum, climb the 137 steps to the top, and experience over 225 years of maritime history at this National Historic Landmark.
Shadmoor State Park
Just a stone's throw from Montauk Village, 99-acre Shadmoor State Park is a nature lover’s playground. With over 2,400 feet of beach, bluffs, and hiking trails, it’s perfect for birdwatching, picnicking, or casting a line. Named after its rolling terrain and shadbush trees, this spot invites you to soak in the views and enjoy a slice of Montauk’s coastal charm.
Ditch Plains Beach Club
Famed for its tubular waves and inviting saltwater, Ditch Plains Beach is an East Hampton haven for ocean enthusiasts. The beach is lifeguard-protected during the summer, and the Rheinstein Park hiking trails are easily accessible along the shore.
The Hamptons, New York, United States
