Day Trip to Montauk, New York Off-Season

Now that the weather is finally warming up in New York City and we begin to think about ways to get a little bit of that sunshine again on our faces, a day trip to a place where we can dream of summer days to come is simply just good for the soul.

Less than 120 miles (193 km) from NYC, on the easternmost point of Long Island’s East End, is Montauk. Known by Long Island residents as “The End”, Montauk is a 2 1/2 hour drive from NYC and an off-season best kept secret, if you’re willing to hit the road. Somehow this was the first time I, someone who’s lived in NY most of my adult life, finally decided to venture there and it was definitely worth it.

“Look at life through the windshield, not the rearview mirror. ”

— BYRD BAGGETT

GETTING THERE

IMG_0012 2.jpg — Though it is possible to get to Montauk via train, if you’re looking to make this a day trip, I only recommend driving.
From NYC:
**BY CAR** (2 1/2 hours) I entered “Montauk Lighthouse Museum” in Google Maps for directions.
Check out Curbed Hamptons’ “Best Scenic Stops Along Montauk Highway” for some great ideas on where to stop along the way.
**BY TRAIN** (4 to 4 1/2 hours) on the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) via the Montauk line. For more off-season train travel information click here.

VISIT ONE OF THE STATE PARKS

Montauk has six state parks; Montauk Point State Park, Hither Hills State Park, Amsterdam Beach State Park, Camp Hero State Park, Shadmoor State Park and Montauk Downs State Park. I chose Montauk Point State Park for the day. It was beautiful and peaceful to walk along the beach and breathe in the ocean air. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot a seal! Wooden bench swings are scattered throughout where you can just relax and take in the view.

Tip: The Montauk Lighthouse grounds and museum are currently open only on the weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weather permitting, and ticket prices are $12 for adults, $8 for seniors 62+ and $5 for children under 12. If you go before April 2, parking is free. Beginning April 3, there will be a parking fee on weekends and as of May 3 a daily $8 parking fee from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EAT OUTSIDE

Part of the magic of visiting Montauk in the off-season is you won’t have to fight off crowds to eat at some of the best restaurants in town. The downside is, they’re not all open and those that are tend to have very specific schedules. That said, you’re definitely going to work up an appetite out there, so here are my top three recommendations (one I ate at and two I want to try out next time I’m there).

La Fondita

Known here as the one I ate at, if you’re in the mood for something casual and delicious, La Fondita serving authentic Mexican street food is a great option. They have picnic tables set up outside of the restaurant where you can browse through the menu and once you’re ready just go inside and place your order.

Open Friday - Tuesday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

74 Montauk Highway
Amagansett, NY 11930

Outdoor dining and take-out only

Follow them @lafondita_amg

Photos of food courtesy of lafondita.net