Montauk, New York is known as the 'end of the world' for a reason. If it weren't for its dramatic, steep cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, it may have earned a different nickname from the locals. While it's not actually the end of the world, it does certainly feel like that for those who perch on the edge of the Atlantic. With the Montauk Point Lighthouse being the last stop before one requires a boat, it's arguably one of the most scenic views on all of Long Island.
Contrary to popular belief, one doesn't need to go all the way to 'The End' in order to appreciate its views. With this local guide to the best views in and around Montauk, visitors will have plenty of options from which to take in the 'end of the world.' From state parks to restaurants with unbelievable vistas, here's where travelers should ready their camera's on the East End.
Montauk Sightseeing: Where You Can Find The Best Ocean Views
If there's one thing that Montauk is known for, it's having the best views on the island. While many people associate New York, as a whole, with New York City or Upstate, Long Island is sometimes forgotten as a top summer destination. Additionally, while the Hamptons get the spotlight, Montauk is a quieter, more rural alternative to the hustle and bustle of village streets during the peak season. Therefore, it makes sense that Montauk would be a worthy destination - its scenic vistas, alone, prove that much.
The Best State Park Views: Camp Hero
A lesser-known park on the East End is Camp Hero State Park, which has a long, and somewhat mysterious, history with Long Island's East End. The park spans a total distance of 415 acres, meeting up with Montauk's Bluffs as its ocean side edge. Down below, park-goers will be able to observe a small sliver of a beach, but it's the expansive views of the Atlantic that have most people in awe. In the distance, one can see the Montauk Point Lighthouse and, on a clear day, many sailboats and fishing boats will dot the horizon. There's perhaps no better place to witness the deep blue of the ocean from Lond Island's shores, especially with such a dramatic cliffside.
The Bluffs are beautiful, but visitors should heed the warnings not to trespass too close to the edge. Due to erosion, the cliffs have been known to disintegrate if one steps onto an unstable spot.
Still don't believe us? Take it from one review on TripAdvisor:
Camp Hero State Park boasts what is quite possibly the best view in all of Montauk with the most sublime photo opportunities imaginable.Here you can enjoy the ocean from a most rustic perspective: a deeply eroded cliff, with the iconic Montauk Lighthouse dutifully watching over the tireless and sometimes angry swell. Yes, it’s as poetic as it sounds. Camp Hero is located within the confines of Montauk Point State Park, and has its own entrance and parking area (There is no fee for parking between January 1st and May 2nd, otherwise the cost is $8). The Camp also has a vibrant fishing and hiking culture.
The Best Oceanfront Dining Views: Inlet Seafood Restaurant
Not only is Inlet Seafood considered to be the 'last restaurant on Long Island,' but it also features unbelievable panoramic views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. It also has a reputation for being one of the best places on the South Fork to watch the sunset, so early-evening dining reservations are a must for those who wish to see this stunning spectacle in person. Featuring some of the freshest seafood in the region, Inlet Seafood is a must for newcomers and locals who have never had the chance to eat on its ocean-facing deck.
Featuring a full-service bar, an expansive and creative sushi menu, a broad selection of fish and shellfish dishes, delicious non-seafood options, and hand-crafted desserts, it's not surprising that this restaurant is one of the best in Montauk. For those who are still unconvinced, hear it from Inlet Seafood, themselves: "Our sushi, well it may very well be the freshest sushi you’ve ever tasted, often swimming just the day before."
The Best Aerial Views: Top Of Montauk Point Lighthouse
Of course, some of the best views of Long Island's East End can be taken in from the top of the Montauk Point Lighthouse. While visitors are permitted to explore its grounds, as well as the rocky beach below, the views from the top of the lighthouse are perhaps the most profound. There's an $8 fee for parking in the lot between 8 AM and 4 PM, along with admission into the actual lighthouse which is as follows:
- Adults: $13
- Seniors (62+): $8
- Children (under 12): $5
After climbing the 137 steps to the tower of the lighthouse, visitors will be treated to spectacular views of the Block Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. It's well worth the cost of admission, and also allows visitors to experience more than 200 years of maritime history at Montauk's most iconic landmark.