A Montauk Day Trip from NYC by Private Car
Montauk is a long way for a day, but with a chauffeur and a good plan it is entirely doable. Here is how to spend a day at the tip of Long Island without the driving.
- 01Is a Montauk day trip realistic?Yes, with an early start and realistic expectations.
- 02Leaving the cityDepart early to get ahead of the weekend crowds. Weekday mornings are easiest; Saturdays in July and August are the busiest.
- 03Montauk Point and the lighthouseMontauk Point Lighthouse, completed in the 1790s, is the oldest lighthouse in New York State and sits at the very end of the South Fork.
Is a Montauk day trip realistic?
Yes, with an early start and realistic expectations. The drive from Manhattan is long, especially in summer when traffic on the Long Island Expressway and Montauk Highway slows, so plan for a full day and leave early in the morning. A private car turns the drive into relaxed time rather than a chore.
Leaving the city
Depart early to get ahead of the weekend crowds. Weekday mornings are easiest; Saturdays in July and August are the busiest. Tell us your pickup address and preferred time and we plan around the day’s conditions.
Stops on the way
- Bridgehampton or Sagaponack: farm stands and coffee before you continue.
- East Hampton: a walk in the village and a look at Main Beach.
- Amagansett: a stretch of beach and quiet streets on the way east.
Montauk Point and the lighthouse
Montauk Point Lighthouse, completed in the 1790s, is the oldest lighthouse in New York State and sits at the very end of the South Fork. The surrounding state park has trails and dramatic ocean views. Check opening hours and any ticket requirements before you go.
Beaches and harbor
Ditch Plains is well known for surfing and casual beach days. Montauk Harbor is lined with seafood restaurants and fishing boats. Choose one of the two for lunch and enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
Timing your return
Sunday evenings are among the heaviest for westbound traffic. If your return falls then, leave earlier than feels necessary or consider staying the night and returning Monday morning. We plan both directions together when you book.
Who this trip suits
Couples, families and small groups all enjoy the day, and larger groups can choose a van. A chauffeur handles parking, drop-offs and the timing, so you can enjoy a drink with lunch without worrying about driving.
Related pages
See our Montauk car service, East Hampton, Amagansett and Hamptons car service pages, and our guide to Hamptons summer traffic.
Seasonal notes
- Summer: the busiest and most expensive season, with heavy traffic and full restaurants; reserve lunch and leave early.
- Fall: quieter beaches, pleasant weather and farm stands; a good time for a relaxed trip.
- Winter: many businesses close or reduce hours; check before you go.
- Spring: the season reopens gradually, with fewer crowds.
What to bring
Bring layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes, plus a light bag for the beach. A cooler in the car keeps drinks cold, and a change of clothes helps if the weather turns.
Making it a two-day trip
If a day trip feels like too much driving, stay overnight in Montauk, East Hampton or Amagansett. A chauffeur can drop you and pick you up on the second day, and you can enjoy dinner without watching the clock.
The North Fork alternative
If you want wineries and farm stands over surf and beaches, consider the North Fork instead. See our North Fork wine tour guide for a plan.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I plan for the trip?
Plan for a full day, and leave early to make the most of your time at the beach.
Can you wait while we explore?
Yes. Hourly service lets you keep the car and driver all day.
Can we make it a weekend instead?
Yes. We can arrange the outbound and return trips for a weekend stay and coordinate timing around your plans.
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