Summer Getaway: A Guide To Montauk, New York

More and more now, the Hamptons conjures up thoughts of monster traffic, McMansions, and The Real Housewives of New York . And if you don't own a summer house on the East End, that sure doesn't mean you can't summer in style. On the tip of Long Island, there's Montauk, a beachy hideaway that's long been the epitome of the surfer-meets-prep style. Pristine light, blissful beaches, and first-class waves attracts a laid-back crowd that's way more into dark 'n' stormies and bonfires than champers and Polo. So, pack up an oversized tote, stuffed with a few can't-miss summer essentials, including some perf pieces from LOFT's summer 2010 collection. Here's our cheat-sheet for the perfect Montauk weekend, and how to do it in surf-chic style.

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Above, from left, Rox-Two-O Neoprene Bikini Top, $44, available at Roxy, Rox-Two-O Neoprene Bikini Bottom, $40, available at Roxy, LOFT Zebra Print, $34.50, available at LOFT, LOFT Bronze Exotic Baubles, $39.50, available at LOFT, Alexandra Cassaniti Hand Painted Lightning Bolt Surfboard, $900, available at Alexandra Cassaniti.
ann-taylor-loft-montauk-2

Stay: Surf Lodge: So, we're not exactly breaking new ground with this rec, but it's pretty much the center of the action. We still dig the Cali-comes-east vibe, with vintage furnishings juxtaposed against some cool contemporary prints. With daily surf reports, bright rooms, and a rocking deck, this is one wave you'll want to keep riding.
183 Edgemere Street, Montauk, 631-668-1562

Drink: Memory Motel Bar: This kinda seedy joint puts the "dive" in dive bar, but that's kinda why we like it. With live music, shots on the cheap, and budget room rates, if you get too tipsy, you can always shack up for the night. Just don't blame us when you see the vinyl bed-spread in the A.M.
692 Montauk Highway, 631-668-2702

Eat: Navy Beach: This new spot is the brainchild of Da Silvano scion, Leyla Marchetto. As you can guess by the name, they've got a whole harbor-club thing going that's chill and totally not square. If you've got a boat, you can anchor down right in the bay, but land-lubbers will like it anyway. The buttermilk fried chicken, surf & turf, and Montauk clam & corn chowder will have you saying Ahoy! faster than their navy grog.
16 Navy Road, Montauk; 631-668-6868

Above, from left: Free People Straw And Rope Tote, $48, available at Free People, Calypso Linen Short, $295, available at Calypso, LOFT Bridget Thong Sandal, $44.50, available at LOFT, Daan Towel Linen Towel, $35, available at DeckTowel.com,
Modcloth Santa Fe Dress, $74.99, available at ModCloth

Above, clockwise rom left;
Martin+Osa Linen Camp Shirt, $69.50, available at Martin+Osa, LOFT Large Ombre Sunglasses, $24.50, available at LOFT,
Neova Ti-Silc Sheer SPF 45, $26.55, available at Dermadoctor,
Orly Genger Judy Rope Rope Bracelet, $143, available at TenOverSix

Shop: Tauk: This funky boutique feels like a friend's hangout, with quirky tchtotchkes (think anchor bottle openers), sea-shore prints, and nautical stripe tees in tie-dye you'll definitely want to take home with you. Plus their impromptu parties are always the perfect place to flaunt your new purchase.
54 South Erie Avenue, Montauk, 631-668-3686

Play: Gurney's Inn: If you're in the mood for some grade-A pampering, stop by this Seawater Spa for their Montauk stone therapies, or an après sun recovery treatment. Perched on picture-perfect bluffs, you can also experience Roman Baths, a salt-water pool, and a steam-room and sauna, all with epic views.
290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, 631-668-2345

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