Where to Stay in Montauk, NY: The Best Areas (And Which One is Right for You)

One of the most common questions I get from people planning a Montauk trip is “where should we stay?” There are so many factors to consider when choosing where to stay in Montauk: your accommodation budget, if you’ll have a car with you, what kind of vibe you want for your trip and what you want to do while in Montauk.

It’s not just about the hotel property but about the area of Montauk you’re staying in too. Montauk is small but it has distinct areas and where you base yourself can change the feel of your trip.

The 4 Areas of Montauk at a Glance:

Old Montauk Highway

If you’ve ever driven Old Montauk Highway, you already know. It’s one of the most scenic stretches of road in the Hamptons (in my opinion!) A winding two-lane road that hugs the dunes with the Atlantic ocean on one side and beautiful summer homes on the other. The beach here is quiet and vast, with long stretches of open sand and  grassy dunes. 

This is a great area for people who want to unplug. A short drive (or bike ride) gets you right into town or the dock area.

Best for: couples looking for privacy, families with young children, anyone who wants a beach-focused trip away from the crowds

Hotels on Old Montauk Highway:

Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa – Gurney’s is the most well-known property on this stretch and for good reason. It sits right on the ocean with one of the best private beach setups in Montauk. Gurney’s is worth a visit even if you’re not staying here. I especially love to grab a drink around the fire pits or enjoy the outfitted igloos in the off season. It’s on the higher end price-wise but it’s a special property.

Must Read: Is Gurney’s Montauk worth the price tag? Full Review.

The Breakers Montauk – A more low-key option on Old Montauk Highway with a classic Montauk feel. The Breakers consists of small cottages dotted around a central pool and just across the street from the ocean and dune. a solid option if you’re looking for something more affordable on this stretch of beach.

Briney Breezes – This family friendly hotel has been a Montauk staple for years and more reminiscent of the old montauk people talk about. Beachfront, simple, and a good pick if you want the location without the Gurney’s price tag.

Montauk Town

If you want to be in the middle of everything, Montauk town is your spot. There are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, bars, grocery stores all within walking distance. If you’re coming without a car (totally doable), this is where you want to be.

Town beach has multiple lifeguard stands and a great stretch of sand, but it gets busy especially on summer weekends when day trippers are visiting too. It’s not my personal go-to for a quiet beach day, but for everything else staying in Montauk town can’t be beat.

Best for: first-timers who want to be close to everything, people coming without a car, anyone who wants to be able to walk to dinner without thinking about parking.

Hotels in Montauk Town:

Daunt’s Albatross – A classic montauk motel right in the heart of town and just across the street from the beach. The Albatross is a trendy motel thats been here for generations and a solid option steps from everything. (plus we love bird on the roof for breakfast & dinner!)]

The Beach House Montauk – A fun, social property right in town with a lively pool scene in the summer. The Beach house is a good pick for a group trip or if you want that fun summer energy.

Royal Atlantic Beach Resort – Right on town beach with easy access to the sand. Family-friendly and well-located.

Near Town / Outskirts

This is my personal favorite area to recommend if your budget allows. Both Hero Beach Club and Marram sit just outside the downtown area close enough to walk or bike in, but removed enough that you’re not in the thick of the summer hustle. The vibe is more boutique at both properties and just a little more special than other hotels in town.

If you want a stylish, boutique stay on the beach this is the area.

Best for: couples who want a more boutique experience, people who want to be close to town without being right in it, anyone prioritizing aesthetic and atmosphere.

Hotels Near Town / Outskirts:

Hero Beach Club – One of my favorite properties in Montauk. It’s got a great pool, beautiful design, and a really fun summer energy with a focus on wellness programming. (think cool workout classes in the morning on the lawn and fun brand activations) The location is great. You’re close to everything but it also feels a little removed. I love the peace and quiet of the beach in front of Hero!

Marram Montauk – This is what they call barefoot luxury and a genuinely cool hotel. Marram has a front row seat to the beach and home to an amazing cafe, Mostrador. If you’re the type of traveler who cares about being oceanfront, in a walkable location, aesthetics and a quieter vibe Marram is the perfect hotel.

The Harbor

The Harbor (also referred to as “the dock area”) is on Montauk’s north side sitting on Block Island Sound with calm bay water and a completely different energy from town and the ocean beaches. This is where all the fishing boats come in, where the yacht clubs are, and where some of the best waterfront restaurants and bars in Montauk are clustered around the docks.

It’s not the area I’d recommend if your top priority is beach access but the ocean beaches are just a 5-minute drive away. If you love that classic fishing village atmosphere and want to be right in the middle of the dock restaurant scene, it’s a great base.

Best for: people who love that nautical, fishing village feel, foodies who want to walk to waterfront restaurants, anyone arriving by boat.

Hotels in the Harbor:

Montauk Yacht Club – Right on lake Montauk with marina access and a luxury yacht club feel. A great choice if you want a luxury property with added amenities, a pool scene and close proximity to bars and restaurants in the dock area. 

Hotel Corduroy – New this year, hotel corduroy is a more boutique option in the harbor area. It’s got a cool, laid-back vibe that feels very Montauk without being stuffy.

So Which Area is Right for You?

• You want privacy and a stunning beach → Old Montauk Highway
• You’re coming without a car or want to walk everywhere → Montauk Town
• You want boutique vibes close to town → Near Town / Outskirts
• You love that fishing village atmosphere and waterfront dining → The Harbor

Still not sure? That’s exactly what my custom Montauk itinerary service is for. I’ll take your dates, travel style, and budget and build you a personalized plan, including hotel recommendations that actually fit your trip.

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