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A weekend in Montauk

4:31 PM EDT, July 17, 2007

Dinner at Gurney's, overlooking the ocean. (Newsday / Thomas A. Ferrara)

Montauk has never had the snob value of its sister communities along the South Fork: Amagansett, the Hamptons, Sag Harbor. But that doesn't mean it should be slighted: the beach is every bit as lovely here at > the very tip of > the island, and the town has its own peculiar charm.

WHERE TO STAY: If you're looking for a simple, laid-back place, the Beach Plum, which caters particularly to families, has a good selection of simply > furnished room types, ranging from $230-$285 per night during August (weekends, there's a four-night minimum). Note: each room has an ocean view and an in-room kitchen. This isn't fancy, by any means, but it's steps from the beach - which is what you came for. (779 Old Montauk Highway; 631-668-4100; www.beachplumresort.com)

WHAT TO DO: Take to the beach, of course. But you can also visit the famous lighthouse, or spend a little time with nature at the Nature Conservancy's 6-Acre preserve, Montauk Mountain, with its maritime grasslands, among the best in the state.

WHERE to EAT: The classic place for a casual lunch in these parts is the Lobster Roll in nearby Amagansett,known for its lobster rolls (of course), fried clams, and such. (Montauk Highway; 631-267-3740) Looking for something a little fancier? There's more seafood at the Sea Grille at Gurney's Inn, right overlooking the ocean. Expect to pay about $45 per person for a three-course meal. (290 Old Montauk Highway; 631-668-2345)