Montauk, Coastal community in Suffolk County, New York
Montauk lies on the southern shore of Long Island and stretches along several state parks and beaches to a fishing harbor at the easternmost point. The area offers sandy coasts, bluffs, and open Atlantic waters with lighthouses and boat slips along the waterfront.
Adriaen Block reached this coast in 1614 and charted it for Dutch traders. Over the centuries, the area shifted from grazing and farmland to a fishing port and later to a seaside retreat.
The name comes from the Montaukett people, who lived here when European settlers arrived and later used the area for cattle grazing. Today, some place names and markers recall this early connection between indigenous inhabitants and the land.
The Long Island Rail Road connects the area to New York City, and a small airport accepts private planes. Most shops and restaurants sit along the main road near the harbor, while beaches and parks spread in both directions along the coast.
The harbor holds more world records for saltwater fish than any other port in the world. Anglers regularly bring in exceptionally large specimens caught in the deep waters offshore.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
