As a New Yorker, I’ve spent my fair share of time out in the Hamptons — Montauk, in particular. I’ve spent weekends in share-houses, like any other self-respecting twenty-something in Manhattan, and was shamefully part of the influx of revelers that infiltrated this formerly sleepy fishing town. I associated Montauk with hazy nights out at The Point or sipping late-night cocktails on the lawn at Ruschmeyers and lazy mornings desperate for a Goldberg’s bagel and a dip in the Atlantic. Relaxing, restorative, boho chic — these were not words I associated with the iconic resort town. It felt to me like there were either super high-end, ultra-expensive offerings out in Montauk — not exactly what I’m looking for on a beach vacation — or budget-friendly options that skimped on ambiance.
(Image provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
So, when I checked into Haven Montauk for a midweek stay with an old friend and fellow share-house survivor, we were both impressed by the charming coastal vibes and relaxed, welcoming ambiance. My friend had grown up summering in Montauk when it was just a sleepy fishing town and immediately felt she’d returned to the Montauk of her childhood. We’d ride the hotel bikes to breakfast in the morning past the windswept sand dunes and spend nights gathered around the outdoor fire pits. The hotel is in the perfect location — steps from the Montauk Harbor and across from the gorgeous and secluded Sunset Beach at the sister property, Sunset Montauk. Though only three miles from downtown, it truly felt like an oasis, far from the influencer crowds lined up at Surf Lodge (where we, too, once waited in vain for a table).
(Image provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
True luxury, I’ve learned in Montauk, is finding a sophisticated shelter — or heavenly haven, if you will — from the Instagram-hungry weekend revelers. The family-owned boutique property was recently renovated to ensure guests have access to modern amenities while also enjoying the coastal chic vibe of the stylish decor — from striped umbrellas by the pool to an airy, beachy off-white aesthetic in the guest rooms and suites. The friendly staff made me feel like I was immediately at home, and I felt I was experiencing a place I’ve visited dozens of times from a whole new angle. I felt I’d found a hidden secret in one of the most popular resort towns on earth.
(Image provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
The coastal, bohemian decor reminded me of the Montauk of old — the kind I’d read about in Vogue or Vanity Fair — when the town was a legendarily laid-back artist colony in the 1970s. Mick Jagger performed with The Rolling Stones at the Memory Motel, and Andy Warhol entertained Lee Radziwill and Elizabeth Taylor on the weekends. In those days, the glitz and glam existed alongside the gritty and the coastal, and that is a combination that still makes Montauk magical today. And fall is the perfect season to visit and experience Montauk at its most idyllic and serene.
(Image provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
The off-season is best for experiencing that true Montauk vibe — and to appreciate the foliage and that legendary Out East light. Not only is the season ideal for avoiding crowds on the beach, but it’s great for avoiding them on the highway, too — fall is the perfect season to visit for travelers who love heading out east but dread that Friday and Sunday traffic to and from New York City. And, while I loved visiting Haven with an old friend, it’s also perfect for families, as well — and affordable, too.
Lastly, of course, this barely needs to be mentioned, but beach towns are famously more wistful, reflective, and romantic in the off-season, as Brigitte Bardot sang in “La Madrague.” Montauk, in particular, is particularly evocative in low season — hopefully, your love story doesn’t turn out like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, but if it does, the trip may still be worth it.