City Secrets | Montauk

When one thinks of the Surf Lodge in Montauk, the words "beach chic" are the first to come to mind. The beach-side hotel and restaurant, characterized by a bohemian sophistication, is the epitome of "summer freedom." It is the favorite getaway for city folk looking to ditch the hectic noise and chill out in a town run by local fishermen, artists and surfers.

When one thinks of The Surf Lodge in Montauk, the words "beach chic" are the first to come to mind. The beach-side hotel and restaurant, characterized by a bohemian sophistication, is the epitome of "summer freedom." It is the favorite getaway for city folk looking to ditch the hectic noise and chill out in a town run by local fishermen, artists and surfers.

 

 

 Photo by The Sartorialist

 

Although The Surf Lodge is known for its casual atmosphere, it is probably best known as a place frequented by celebrities vacationing in the Hamptons. Despite their popularity among A-listers, The Surf Lodge is dedicated to creating an inviting atmosphere. Maitre d?hotel, Jayma Cardoso, characterizes The Surf Lodge by the dress code policy: "No high heels. It's a place where you can come in flip flops and a sarong." 

 

 

  Photo by The Sartorialist

 

 

 

The Surf Lodge is the treasure of Montauk, a Hamptons town known less for its glamor and more for its surfing. In fact, vacationing in Montauk is defined by recreation and mixing with the locals. But fear not, because L-atitude would never leave you high and dry for ideas. Here's what we would do on our escape from the City to Montauk:

 

 

 

 

Restaurants

• The Dock - grab some grub at this family restaurant, known for both its quality of food and humor. We suggest the tuna melt. 
• Harvest on Fort Pond - make your reservations a week in advance, but trust us, their Tuscan-inspired cuisine is worth it. 
• La Bodega - this American diner-fused-with-Puerto Rican restaurant is truly in a class of its own and is known for having the best Cafe con Leche around. 752 Montauk Highway, Montauk;  (631) 804-9150.
• The Hideaway - it may be a little tricky to find (as the name suggests) but the fish tacos have been regarded as some of the best in the Northeast.
• Duryea's Lobster Deck - head to this quiet spot outside of town and make sure to order the lobster rolls.
  

• Joni's - this place is popular with locals and visitors alike; head there for brunch and get the breakfast burrito. 9 S. Edison Drive, Montauk; (631) 668-3663.

 

 

 

 

 

Nightlife

• Electric Eel Lounge - head over to Ruschmeyer's Hotel to sip a spicy cocktail in their retro lounge that has been there since the 1950s. 
• The Bar at The Surf Lodge - look no further than The Surf Lodge for a relaxing evening, often with live music or a glam DJ. Also, check out The Den for a lower-key experience (think screenings of old surf films). 
• Zum Schneider Beer Garden - an offshoot of their popular location in the East Village, dedicated to serving good beer and offering an authentically Bavarian experience. 

 

 

 

 

Shopping

• Surf Bazaar @ The Surf Lodge - their boutique is chock full of the Montauk uniform, including tropically patterned dresses and stylish flip-flops. 
• Screaming Mimi's - this vintage store has everything from retro sunglasses to brightly colored frocks. 662 Montauk Highway, Montauk; (631) 668-1631.
• Cynthia Rowley's boutique - although it's a famous name, Rowley's boutique stays in line with the understated Montauk vibe. 696 Montauk Highway; (631) 668-8076.
• Tauk - this little boutique offers more beachy attire but with a little more navy blue striped sailor flare. 54 South Erie Avenue, Montauk; (631) 668-3686.
  

• Rebecca Minkoff's pop-up store - opened just this past weekend, Minkoff's store offers      her Spring/Summer 2012 collection as well as some classic pieces. Sole East Resort, 90 Second House Road, Montauk.

 

 

 

 

 

Things to do

• Rent surfboards and sign up for lessons, amenities available at The Surf Lodge upon request, along with many other recreational opportunities. Looking for something more adventurous? The Surf Lodge offers shark cage diving expeditions. Wow.

 

• Deep Hollow Ranch offers horseback rides along the beach.

 

• Check out the Montauk Farmers Market on Thursday mornings to get the essence of the beach town and bring home some local art. 

 

• Take a morning run along the bluff above the ocean for a stunning view. 

 

 

 Photo by Jeremy James

 

 

 

The culture of Montauk may be relaxed, but one thing they do not lack is style. Here are some things we would pack in our suitcase for a stay at The Surf Lodge:

 

Detour Weekender Dress, Gypset

 

 

 

Safari King Necklace, Holst + Lee

 

 

 

New York Bobo Bag, Article 22

 

 

 

Bondi Beach Bracelet & Choker, Organic Peroxide

 

 

 

Teal Vintage Ikat Scarf, l'aviva

 

 

 

Surrounded Double Rope Necklace, Brook & Lyn

 

 

 

Ondine Criss-Cross Flat, Loeffler Randal