Gurney's Montauk

This is the end. At least, that’s what the locals call Montauk, found at the farthest reaches of the Hamptons and Long Island itself. This isn’t the gold-plated Hamptons of reality television — it’s a small town with a proud history and a not insignificant population of year-round locals, known for its relaxed lifestyle and unbeatable surfing. In recent years the high-end shops and hotels (and yes, a bit of the crowds) have found their way to The End, but Gurney’s has held court here for 90 years, and it excels at combining the best of old Montauk and new.

As is the case in Montauk generally, the beach is the the main draw at Gurney’s. And you don’t have to worry about fighting for a spot to lay down your towel, because Gurney’s guests have private access to 2,000 feet of Atlantic sand and surf. Soak it up: no other resort out here has oceanfront property. The Beach Club on the premises makes it easy to relax, with king-sized daybeds, beach chairs, and all the warm-weather cocktails you need. And if you prefer to swim in a pool instead of an ocean, Gurney’s indoor pool — the only one of its kind on the continent — uses local seawater that’s sand-filtered and warmed to the perfect temperature.

Unlike most resorts on this part of Long Island, Gurney’s is open year round, and there are plenty of reasons to venture out here after the summer crowd heads home. The spa alone, with its Finnish rock sauna and Roman bath, is worth the trip. And if it’s dining that draws you out here, know that Scarpetta, one of downtown Manhattan’s most beloved downtown Italian restaurants, has its vacation home at Gurney’s. Afterward, grab a drink (and a view) at the Regent Cocktail Club — or at the Regent Firepit.