With Thanksgiving now over we begin to transition into the holiday season as we’re trying to still get out of that food coma from all the turkey and stuffing we ate last Thursday. While most of our days are jam-packed with shopping for all the right presents and gifts for our loved ones we often forget to take a step back and spend quality time with them.
One of my favorite places to visit during the Summer months is Montauk, New York. Also known as “The End” this popular New York destination located on the eastern end of the south shore of Long Island is a great place to get away for the weekend or take a day trip. Montauk is frequently visited during the Summer because of its popular beaches and oceanfront lodging options. The town is also well-known because of its fishing opportunities as well as the water sports, golf clubs, nightlife, shopping, and dining options that it offers. Due to Montauk’s heightened popularity over the last 10 years the town is often packed with families and groups of friends visiting from May-August. While you aren’t likely to get a tan while visiting Montauk this December you still have an opportunity to take advantage of some of the great things it has to offer and avoid the large crowds.
Montauk, New York
Photo taken by Samantha DePasquale
Where to Stay
Some of Montauk’s lodging accommodations close temporarily during the Winter season due to the large decrease in visitors, however a select few remain open for those looking to spend some of the colder days in town.
Nestled on a hilltop overlooking Gardiner’s Bay and Block Island Sound is Montauk Manor. When staying here you won’t have anything short of a spectacular stay. With breathtaking sunsets every day, over 12 acres of land, and 140 various condominium apartments to choose from Montauk Manor has pretty much everything you need.
Montauk Manor
Photo taken by Beyond My Ken
When booking your stay you have the options from executive and deluxe studios, one bedroom suites, deluxe suites, luxury suites, or super deluxe suites, two bedroom suites, and three bedroom suites. Select which ever one you prefer that meets all your needs. Another great aspect of Montauk Manor is its amenities. From a day spa, Italian restaurant, indoor pool and gym there is plenty for you to utilize while staying at Montauk Manor this Winter season.
If Montauk Manor isn’t the right place for you to stay check out some of these other accommodations that are open:
Born Free Suites By The Sea
Driftwood Resort On the Ocean
Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa
Burcliffe By The Sea
What to Do
A great activity to do during the Winter is take a trip to the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Still being used today the working lighthouse is the oldest in New York State and considered a national historical landmark. It's decorated for the holiday season with Christmas lights until January which gives it a more festive feel. While you can’t walk to the top during the Winter you can still walk the grounds, tour the museum and buy some holiday presents at the gift shop.
Montauk Point Lighthouse
Photo taken by Wolfgang Wander
Montauk Point State Park is a great place to see some beautiful views of the ocean even when there is snow on the ground. Walk along the beach, hike the trails, cross-country ski or even surf if you’re feeling daring. The park is also well-known for seal watching during the Winter months which is something you won’t be able to do in the Summer heat.
A great characteristic of Long Island is it's vineyards. Only about a 15 or 20-minute drive from Montauk is Duck Walk Vineyards in Southampton, Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack or Channing Daughters in Bridgehampton. Share a bottle with your significant other or group of friends and nestle up by the fireplace at some of these beautiful vineyards. Order a cheese plate or some appetizers to share and you have a great way to spend the day. If you’re not a big fan of wine don’t worry because Montauk also has its own brewing company. Stop on in to try some select craft beers during your trip at Montauk Brewing Company.
Where to Eat
One of my personal favorite places for breakfast is the Montauk Bake Shoppe. While there are plenty of other great breakfast restaurants to eat at in town like John’s Pancake House they’re often extremely crowded especially during primetime hours. Instead pick up some coffee’s and homemade pastries such as their famous jelly croissant that certainly won’t disappoint.
While I've never eaten here during the Winter months my go to restaurant in Montauk is Harvest on Fort Pond. With a gorgeous view of Fort Pond you can enjoy a delicious family-style Italian meal that incorporates the great seafood that Montauk has to offer plus ingredients from their on-site garden. A dish that I continue to get every time I dine at Harvest is their 16-ounce skirt steak that is served with arugula, red onion and roasted garlic tomato butter. Another classic dish for even the pickiest eater is their spaghetti with tomato, garlic shrimp and parmesan. The dishes are fairly big and great to share with a group of friends or family. Be sure to come with an appetite.
Harvest On Fort Pond
Photos taken by Samantha DePasquale
After you finish up dinner there is no sweeter way to end the meal than with dessert. The Candied Anchor located right in town on Main Street sells a variety of local treats as well as classic candies for anyone of any age to enjoy. They also have different types of baked goods created by local baker Dawn Rennar such as her famous brownies, homemade marshmallows, pie in a jar and decorated sugar cookies. Be sure to stop by the Candied Anchor at the end of the day to suppress your sweet tooth.
While this family-oriented Summer getaway destination is less frequently visited during the colder months of the year it still has many unique qualities to persuade you to put Montauk at the top of your list for your next trip. From cozy lodging, fun daytime activities and delicious dining options there is plenty for you to experience out at the end of Long Island. Bring a bunch of friends and family out for a day or even a few and enjoy Montauk during the Winter.
