Surfs up in Montauk

Hi Everyone, As you may have noticed, I'm a big fan of the Hamptons, and up untilthis summer I had spent most of my time in Southampton. This past June, though I had a chance to go to Montauk, which is at the tip of Long Islandand known to those heading out from the city as"The Living End" or "The Last Resort." It's a mistake to think that due to the extra effort to get there would in any way deter people from going, though. Montaukis one of the busiest parts within the town of East Hampton and I'm about to tell you what's so special about it and how to explore it like a pro!

## LOCAL (ISH) - GO WITH SOMEONE WHO 'KNOWS'

First up, try to find yourself someone really in the know, like my friend Fiona Byrne, who is such a frequent visitor to Montauk, she pretty much is a local at this point.

The first day I arrived, Fiona gave me lots of great pointers on the who, what, and where of this adorable partof the Hamptons. I have to give her major credit for teaching me the ways of Montauk and for being such a fabulous tour guide, so that I can now share all my learnings with you.

## WHERE TO STAY & BREAKFAST



Without question, I am clearly biased here but I really did love staying at The Surf Lodge and can not wait to return to stay with them, again!



When you wake up, you can join in on their special wellness classessuch as flow yoga set to super fun music, boot camp style classes, or even Pilates. Then, you can follow it up with some berries, custard and a sip or two of a latte.

OR, indulge in a proper brunch and order the Avocado Toast with a Poached Egg. Delicious!





## WHERE TO BEACH

There are plenty of options in Montauk, so it's really about what you're in the mood for. For a bit of a 'scene' the place to be is definitely The Beach Club at Gurneys



Grab yourself a beach lounger (for a fee of course) and post up with your friends for a few Pina Coladas or whatever sips you're in the mood for while lounging in the sun listening to fun tunes and grabbing a game or two of corn hole. Gurney's is also a notable place to stay, which I can't speak from experience, but their beach front was certainly lovely.



For a chiller beach experience, there are also lovely state beaches like Montauk Pointe State Beach or Hither Hills State Beach.



## INSTEAD OF THE BEACH

Head to Main Street and check out all the cute shops, like the Candied Anchor...



as well as grab yourself an ice coffee..





then maybe pick up a copy of Hamptons magazine and stroll to the ..



Gazebo on the Plaza and take in the cool architecture of the Tower at Montaukin the horizon.



## FOR THE EVENING

Circling back to the beginning of this travel guide, Fiona shared two perfectly divine spots to enjoy the sunset while enjoying a summer glass of rosé. Up first,The Crows Nest, was where Fiona took me first and I have to say, it did not disappoint. I would love to go back there next time I'm in town for dinner, as their menu looks delicious.



Then, another great spot for sunsets and sips is Navy Beach, Montauk.





We hit this popular spot the second night and we were lucky enough to grab one of the coveted beach loungers. The sunset from this point in Montauk is without a doubtspectacular!

To end the day, head back to the Surf Lodge and dine outside, _if_ you can score a table. The service is fantastic and a party definitely gets going at the bar, if you want to head over there once you're done.

No matter what you do though in Montauk, it's a veryspecial place and pretty much impossible not to enjoy yourself!



If you go, please share your stories with me! Tag me @graymalin on Insta, then for more on the Hamptons, I have more tips here.

Cheers x GM