A Guide to The Perfect Thursday in Montauk

The Hamptons, and specifically Montauk, can often feel overwhelming. Amid a sea of overpriced lobster rolls and influencer mobs, doing Montauk the right way is not an easy feat.

Somehow, this once small, quaint fishermen’s town has now become the hottest destination for nightlife—it’s the scene to be seen at. While the weekends are a whole other beast (one that we might recommend avoiding), Thursday is the perfect day to maximize the best that Montauk has to offer.

Aside from the crowds being much more manageable, a partnership was formed between two luxury brands that centers around Thursday in Montauk. The luxury heritage of Defender has teamed up with The Surf Lodge’s iconic establishment to put on a summer concert series—only on Thursdays at the property. Featuring an array of DJs and live performances, experience the summer-long series for music, coastal vibes, and vibrant energy.

But before you hit Defender’s concert, here’s how to have the perfect Thursday in Montauk.

Stay At: Surf Lodge

Okay, so this one might be a bit of a surprise, given the luxury offerings that pepper the area. The reason why we like to stay at Surf Lodge is that it makes everything easy. You can walk or bike (with the hotel’s complimentary bicycles) into the town center, and you don’t have to get in an Uber to go out at night—you can simply just walk over to the main lodge. Your rooms probably will overlook the pond, offering sweeping views that immerse you in nature from the minute you wake up. And the chicken fingers are great. Plus, on Thursdays, it doesn’t get that loud, but you’re still steps away from the action.

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Hit Ditch Plains Beach for a Surf Sesh

Take advantage of Montauk’s location and hit the beach with Air + Speed. You can rent boards, wetsuits, or even partake in a lesson. Afterwards, pop by the beloved food truck Ditch Witch to refuel with an iced coffee and an egg wrap.

Shop in Montauk’s Town Center

What separates Montauk from the other Hamptons towns is that it still has the quaint shopping center of local shops—far from East Hampton’s transplant Madison Avenue. You can shop luxury dresses and crochet coverups at Wyld Blue, check out Nibi-MTK’s bohemian charm meets Hamptons’ elegance in a handcrafted selection, or pop by Air and Speed Surf Shop’s classic, authentic surfers’ spot. There’s a whole other array of boutiques lining the streets and town center to check out as well.

Stop By The Montauk Farmer’s Market

For a quick browse, pop by the Montauk Farmer’s Market, open every Thursday from mid-May through early October. You won’t be able to resist the fresh pretzels, pickle stand, or, my personal favorite, Manor Sangria for small batch sangria in a mason jar. You can always do some grocery shopping as well, scooping up locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Have Dinner At: The Crow’s Nest

Situated on the lakefront and within a hotel property, The Crow’s Nest is one of Montauk’s beloved dining spots. Go early—as close to 4:30pm as you can—since the restaurant is walk-ins only. And if you have to wait, it’ll be glamorous. Head to the beach bar for a spritz, or take in the views on the sweeping property. Once you’re seated, you can expect a menu of fresh local staples, including tuna tartare, a garden flatbread, lobster tagliatelle, swordfish kebabs, and much, much more.

Drink At: Montauk Project

Pop by Montauk Project for a swanky, lounge filled with enticing cocktails and live music. It gets kicking at night, so here’s a pro tip: reserve a table for dinner, get the whipped ricotta and chicken parmesan, then enjoy the DJ set that carries into the evening.