The Millstone Times August 2019

Weekend GetawaY: Montauk, Long Island By Pam Teel

Montauk, at the Eastern tip of Long Island, is certainly capable of providing a relaxing respite away from the hustle and bustle of life. But this lively hamlet (with its historic light- house) located at land's end is also ideal for weekend travelers looking to kick things up a notch with some surfing, golfing, hiking, and other activities—followed by some serious eating. With its more than fifty hotels and inns and abundant restaurants, Montauk has something to offer couples and families. The amount of seafood (fresh lobster, tuna, clams, and scallops top most menus) and are served fresh and daily. You can even get in on the action with a half-day deep-sea-fishing excursion.

Things to do in Montauk- Stretch your legs after your long drive or train ride by renting a road bike from Montauk Bike Shop in the center of town and cruising out to the fisher- man's dock to see the day's catch unloaded. It's an 8-mile jaunt round-trip, so allow about ninety minutes for the ride. You're at the beach, so savor the sunset. Grown-ups weekending without kids should head to East by Northeast, a sophisticated but casual Asian-fusion restaurant and bar, where cocktails come with panoramic views of Fort Pond. If you have kids in tow but still want to enjoy a water view and delicious seafood, grab a snack at Navy Beach, where you can opt for Montauk clam corn chowder and seared sea scallops, while the Kids Menu offers burgers and fish & chips. For dinner, the Fort Pond area offers a number of delicious (if pric- ey) options. Head to Harvest on Fort Pond to dine on steamed mussels, calamari salad, grilled pizza, and more in an outdoor herb garden. Or dine at Inlet Seafood Restaurant for clams on the half shell and potato-crusted flounder; the owners are six local fishermen. For a classic breakfast diner experience, join the crowds at John's Pancake House on Main Street where the portions are generous and the coconut pancakes are a specialty. Spend your morning on the water, and catch some breaks at the top local surf spot, Ditch Plains. Newbie’s can take lessons with Air and Speed Surf Shop. Try fishing for fluke or striped bass (in season) on a charter fishing boat. Enjoy a casual lunch at the Clam Bar on Gosman's Dock, a Montauk tradition since 1947. Favorites include the crab cakes and the seafood combo plate— fried clams, calamari, shrimp, and fish. Have your cameras ready as you enjoy an easy afternoon hike on the five miles of hiking trails at Montauk Point State Park, where you can also climb the 137 steps to the top of the Montauk Point Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in New York State. It dates back to 1792. Wind down with cocktails, live music, and terrific sunset views at the outdoor daiquiri bar at Montauket. For a family alternative, consider a friendly mini- golf competition at the 18-hole Puff 'N' Putt Family Fun Center. Reserve a table in advance at South Edison to enjoy former Manhattan chef Todd Mitgang's delicious versions of beach classics, such as fried belly clams, local diver scallops, and seared yellowfin tuna. Grab some ice cream at local favorite John's Drive-In (695 Montauk Highway) If adults want to keep the night going, head west on Route 27 to take in live music at The Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett. Shows are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., and there's usually a cover charge. Stop by for an early brunch at Bird on the Roof (47 S. Elmwood Avenue; 631-668-5833), which, despite its simple décor and location behind a souvenir shop, serves up memorable omelets and eggs Benedict. Soak up a little sun at nearby Edison Beach or end your stay with a relaxing 60-minute aromatherapy massage at the The Seawater Spa at Gurney's Inn. On your way back, enjoy one last taste of the briny Atlantic with a stop at Lobster Roll on Route 27 in Amagansett, where signature rolls and sliders are made with a fifty-year-old recipe. Afterward, stop in Amagansett and browse the shops at Amagansett Square. Located in the center of town, and just a block from the beach, the 17-room Ocean Resort Inn (rooms from $115/night) offers clean, comfortable quarters (some with Jacuzzis) and friendly service. The Surf Lodge -Every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day, this trendy Montauk motel becomes the destination for bands worth driving three hours to see in concert. The annual free concert series is a huge hit both among the surfing crowd and city beach tourists, so plan to get there early or, if you really want to see a band, book a room. 183 Edgemere St, Montauk, NY (631-483-5037, thesurflodge.com) Hang ten at one of the best surfing spots in all of Long Island. The waves hitting the Montauk shore here are gentle enough for beginners while still being large enough for veteran long- boarders. If you wipe out too many times, there’s no shame in quitting the sea early for a bite to eat at the local favorite Ditch Witch, a takeout truck offering sandwiches and quesadillas. Off Ditch Plains Rd. Montauk Brewing Company-Beer lovers, unite! If you’re not a fan of rosé, wet your whistle with a colorful can of Montauk-brewed ale. Hit the taproom for a tasting ($12 for six beers) and if you’re interested in a brewery tour, the spot doesn’t give walk-throughs but might let you sneak a peek. 62 South Erie, Avenue (631-668-8471, montaukbrewingco.com) Book a sailboat in the Hamptons and Sail Montauk. They're based out of the beautiful Montauk Yacht Club. The staff is top notch. They provide an ice chest full of ice and water on the boat. You're welcome to BYOB and pop it in the cooler. One thing to remember though is there is no restroom on the sailboat -- so take it easy on guzzling the beverages while on board! The sailboat charter is as hands on (or hands off) as you'd like. You can learn a bit about sailing while there, or not! There are more things to do in the Hamptons other than get a tan. The Hamptons is truly meant to be a weekend getaway destination at which you can kill time trying great restaurants, drinking frozen cocktails at outdoor bars, visiting wineries and lounging on beautiful sandy shores. In the next issue we will explore Montauk’s neighbors- Amagansett and east Hampton for more awesome ways to spend your weekend in the Hamptons!

86 The Millstone Times

August 2019