Check out hiking trails, fishing spots, surf beaches and historic landmarks at the expansive nature reserve on the eastern tip of Long Island’s South Fork.
With awe-inspiring coastal scenery, interesting history and a range of outdoor activities, Montauk Point is ideal for a day out. Explore the nature trails in Montauk Point State Park or climb Turtle Hill and learn about the history of the Montauk Point Lighthouse. From Montauk Point, the sweeping coastal panorama includes Block Island Sound and the North Atlantic Ocean.
Explore the grassy promontory. A network of bridle paths and hiking trails crisscross the nature reserve. Saddle up and ride a horse along the paths or put on your hiking boots and trek for miles. In the winter, explore the trails with your cross-country skis or try hunting for small game, waterfowl or deer.
Make your way down to the waterfront to find a ruggedly beautiful pebble beach. Check the swell and ride the breaks with your surfboard. When the waves are small, this beach is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. Keen anglers can try surf fishing from the beach. Behind you, the picturesque lighthouse overlooks the craggy bluff and sweeping beaches. Look out at the crashing ocean waves and take a moment to enjoy the scenery.
Discover a piece of local history at the Montauk Point Lighthouse. The first lighthouse to be built in New York is now a museum presenting an insight into the region’s heritage. Established on Turtle Hill in 1796, the octagonal tower still flashes its light out to sea each night. Find out about the lighthouse’s role in World War II and discover the story of efforts to combat erosion in recent decades. Climb to the top of the 111-foot-tall (34-meter) lighthouse and experience the breathtaking views.
Montauk Point is the easternmost section of Long Island’s South Fork, as well as the state. It is 6 miles (10 kilometers) east of Montauk. Plenty of parking is available outside the Montauk Lighthouse. The lighthouse and museum have an admission fee in addition to the park entrance fee. Be sure to obtain required permits before fishing or hunting.
