Meet me in Montauk

A quick three hour drive from New York City, Montauk has become a tradition for us. A quaint alternative to the Hamptons or Jersey shore, Montauk has miles of tranquil beaches, scenic bluffs and hiking trails, as well as amazing restaurants. Here's a summary of our favorite lodging, restaurants and activities in this charming beach town.

Long Island wine country offers a great selection of vineyards. 

One of our favorites is Duck Walk, an easy stop on the drive to Montauk. 

We love the Blueberry and Boysenberry Port, a great alternative to the 

selection you would expect to typically find at a local vineyard. 

In the past we rented a beach house, but this time we decided to try 

something different. Our home for the week, The Surf Lodge, 

a laid back boutique hotel with a cool surfer vibe. 

Artwork by photographer & visual artist Raphael Mazzucco 

is displayed throughout the hotel through September 2014. 

The Surf Lodge overlooks Montauk's Fort Pond Bay, 

perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking. 

The rooms had a bohemian feel with cool tones, driftwood and wicker accents.

Fisherman's baskets handmade in Haiti double as unique outdoor lighting fixtures.

The mock beach on the pond is the perfect spot for watching the sunset.

Our first (and favorite) meal when we arrived in Montauk was at The Gig Shack, 

with outdoor seating on Main Street. We enjoyed their signature dish - catch of 

the day tacos, made with grilled fish, spicy slaw and mango salsa, the perfect combination of flavors. 

The outdoor deck and dock at Harvest on Fort Pond serves family style 

meals and home grown produce from their on-site garden.

Our favorite activity was an early morning hike through the woods 

that led us to the most amazing ocean views. 

A side trail then led us down to deserted Amsterdam beach which can only be 

accessed by hiking. There was no one in site, making it even more special.

We ended our evenings with Port on the beach at sunset.

Our new BrooklynThread Market Tote accompanied us everywhere. 

Perfect for the beach, farmer's market or as an everyday carry-all. 

all original images via Lifestyle Bohemia