Cristina's Picks: The Montauk Guide

Come Fridays in Manhattan, most of the city packs their bags and heads east for the weekend. While we love spending time in the heart of the Hamptons, we tend to just keep driving until you can't go any further. Which brings us to Montauk...

This laid-back beach community has been our weekend getaway of choice for years. And though the secret of this special place may be out, there are plenty of spots still left to be discovered. Here are a few of our favorites below! 

STAY - Hero Beach Club

626 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954

Our favorite place to call home for the weekend is Hero Beach Club. A friend from TriBeCa opened this hotel last summer, and we've been hooked ever since. The location couldn't be better - it sits right at the beach, yet steps away from town. We love the modern elegant decor that highlights Montauk's easy beach vibe. It's also a great spot to to kick back with friends, preferably poolside enjoying a glass of rosé. 

COFFEE - Left Hand Coffee

83 S Elmwood Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

There's no better way to start a morning out east than with a coffee from Left Hand. We love their driftwood covered bar and Montauk-inspired beachy decor.  We're also big fans of their coffee, all of which is brewed in house. Grab a flat white and post up at one of their cafe tables to read the paper and map out your weekend plans.   

HIKE - Shadmoor State Park

Shadmoor State Park, Montauk, NY 11954

Located just off of busy Montauk Highway, the Shadmoor State Park hike is reminiscent to the cliffs of Big Sur. No need for hiking boots, as it's a pretty easy walk from the trail's start to it's end at Ditch Plains Beach. Grab the kids for some time outdoors, and take in the bird's eye view of the beachgoers and surfers down below. It's pretty spectacular - you can thank us later! 

BEACH - Ditch Plains Beach

18 Ditch Plains Rd, Montauk, NY 11954

While there are many great beaches in Montauk, Ditch Plains is our favorite of the bunch. Famous for it's world class waves, this stretch attracts tourists and local surfers alike. Sprawl out on the sand and watch the swell, or grab a lesson with Coreyswave Surf School. There's my daughter Mila catching a wave below. Afterwards, fuel up on breakfast burritos from the Ditch Witch, a popular kitchen-trailer combo with a super tasty menu.  

EAT - Joni's Kitchen

28 S Etna Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

Speaking of menu, it wouldn't be a weekend in Montauk without a trip to Joni's for lunch. A one-stop shop for everyone in the family, this healthy cafe has everything from salads, to fish tacos and veggie burgers galore. We're pretty hooked on the smoothies, ordered with a side of Joni's famous raisin walnut toast. Yum! 

YOGA - BYoga

83 S Elmwood Ave Suite 1B, Montauk, NY 11954

If you're looking for an afternoon break from the sun, look no further than BYoga. Started by two New Yorkers who clearly understand the power of "damn good yoga", this light-filled studio is a much needed respite from busy city life. We love their BFire Vinyasa class, but regardless of which flow you choose, you're guaranteed to leave feeling damn good!  

DINE - Duryea's Lobster Deck

5460, 65 Tuthill Rd, Montauk, NY 11954

Arguably the greatest outdoor dining spot in Montauk, this long standing lobster roll joint was recently renovated and has returned chicer than ever. Gorgeous views are met with an upscale ambiance, but all orders are still placed via the counter - which we love! The menu was designed to be shared, so order a bunch of family-style plates (oysters and calamari for sure!) and fully dig into some of the best seafood Long Island has to offer. 

After dinner, head another minute down the road to Deep Blue Vintage. Located in the Montauket's antique 1930's garage, the shop is home to an amazing collection of vintage finds. We've scored some really cool overalls, and also stock up on their super soft vintage tees. DBV stays open until 9pm, which makes it perfect for some late night shopping! 

SUNSET - The Crow's Nest

4 Old West Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

While we love the Crow's Nest for it's cozy hotel rooms and delicious cuisine, the best part about this place is their sunset views. Head over on the earlier side to grab one of the lounge chairs overlooking Montauk harbor. Order a glass of rosé and prepare yourself for this sundown goodness at "the end of the world". Staying tat Crow's with the family? Keep the party going into the dark with some s'mores by the fire pit. It's best way to end any great day in Montauk!