Montauk Getaway

 I consider time away with kids: a trip, something more than a few days without them: a vacation and anything shorter: a getaway. Our trip to Montauk was most definitely a getaway and in the best way. Zach and I were both feeling the need for a little break, my parents were itching to watch Lilly and she’s off school this week, which means 24/7 togetherness, which means it was the perfect excuse for a little adult time last week. But we didn’t want to go far, have to hop on a plane (or pay for tickets) and the Hamptons is a special spot for us having spent the last two summers (one, two) and one memorable New Year’s there.

Beyond New Year’s, we’d never explored much in the off-season and we’re excited to check it out. So when the Montauk Yacht Club graciously invited us, we cleared our schedules, hopped in the car and headed east.

As soon as we arrived, I immediately regretted leaving my little one behind because it’s the perfect place for families (and weddings!). We had a room on the ground floor with an ocean view that led right out to the little, calm, kid-friendly beach. We could’ve sat on our deck and just let her play, watching while sipping a cocktail. There was even a toddler next door she could’ve played with and an indoor and outdoor pool. We will absolutely be brining her back.

Having said that, it was really nice being kid-free. Sorry Lilly.

The place is so charming and decorated perfectly.

I was in love with this room. It’s so cozy, with a fantastic view and steps from the bar. Zach and I spent hours in there, reading, resting, chatting, drinking…

I’m a girl who loves a good stripe so I fit right in with the nautical vibe.

We’ve been to Montauk a bit (I even celebrated a friend’s bachelorette weekend there, dining at South Edison, Ruschmeyer’s, drinking at Sloppy Tuna and Surf Lodge, all bach party prerequisites.), frequenting Navy Beach, Crow’s Nest and Clam Bar, but having stayed in East Hampton, South Hampton and Bridghampton for our lengthier stays, hadn’t gotten a real feel for it till this time.

Even in the off-season, you really wouldn’t have to leave. There’s enough open and everything is so easy to get into compared to the summer months. Even Channing Daughter’s is available during the weekdays for a wine tasting. Amen to that!

The bathroom tiled walls at Nick & Toni’s, an iconic Hamptons eatery, are stunning. The food isn’t too shabby either.

No trip to Montauk is complete without a stop at Gurney’s. Whether you go for a drink or a bite to eat at The Beach Club (or any of their other establishments), it’s worth the views and the service.

A meal at Tom Colicchio’s Topping Rose in Bridgehampton is a must. We’d been meaning to go for two years but never made it until this time. Our loss. The food is exquisite. Bonus: They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner year-round.

Cauliflower and sunchoke soup.

Mushroom and chesnut agnolotti with Pepato mousse. It was sooo good.

I always make it a point to stop in Serena & Lily Beach Market while I’m there for inspiration. Even if I don’t need anything, a girl can just dream, can’t she?

The Maidstone is a charming place for cocktails or a meal. Love the way it’s eclectically decorated and the porch is a dream as is their cozy, quirky living room. Either place is perfect to sip- and sit.

Speaking of sipping…

The Montauk Brewing Co. brews great local beer (the Summer Ale is our favorite) out of the most charming little house. Sadly, it was closed while we were there.

We ate our sorrows in scones. Mary’s Marvelous Whole Wheat Maple scones that are on our all-time greatest list.

And continued our eating fest with an amazing seaside lunch at Duryea’s.

It’s a newly reopened marketplace that is now at the top of our list. Anywhere. You check off your order, pay for it at the counter and then it’s delivered to you…

…in this stunning setting. Swoon.

The food was fresh as can be, simple and delicious. At bit on the pricey side but well worth a one-time, special lunch.

If you’re looking for more of an old-school, authentic, New England dive, The Dock is your place. No frills, pub-style, but seriously legit seafood.

One of the best parts of the trip was taking scenic drives, listening to good tunes, looking at all of the colorful places and snapping some photos (for me, Zach could’ve done without that part but he married me so that’s his fault.). We definitely don’t get a chance to do that in Manhattan.

It was the perfect little getaway.

Can’t wait to go back!