It’s hard not to be bitten by the wanderlust bug this time of year… ingrained in us from our days of summer vacation, this time of year comes around and we start to think about getting away. Finding the perfect destination is not always so easy though, and the best getaways are always the rare, unique gems that you have to do some digging for. This month we’re excited to be working with Mr & Mrs Smith, NY-based boutique hotel experts who have a roster of stylish and breathtaking hotels from around the globe, and a wealth of travel knowledge and tips to share. Each week in July we’ll share their picks for the ultimate summer destinations – up first, the Surf Lodge in Montauk, NY.
Montauk is a mellow surf town located in the Hamptons where surfers and boho beach bunnies flock during the swell season – and The Surf Lodge is the place they call home. Featuring a laid-back surf inspired décor the Surf Lodge offers a peaceful retreat not far from the city, but you’ll feel like you’re miles away. Visitors can take a vintage Swiss army truck to Ditch Plains Beach for a day riding waves or relax in a hammock on a private deck overlooking Fort Pond – where you can also rent paddle boards and canoes if surfing isn’t your thing.
Mr & Mrs Smith Insider Tip: We love Room 2, a two-bedroom suite with blue and white gingham couches that double as day-beds, a kitchenette and driftwood details. An enormous plaster whale tail tops the dresser in the bright, white bedroom. Room 10 is airy, sweet and ideal for a duo. The bed faces Fort Pond, and the hanging chair in the room makes a perfect reading nook. Each room has a private deck and a hammock big enough for two. If you’re looking for quieter nights, pick a lower-numbered room, as they’re furthest from the restaurant and bar.
Recommended Activities:
– Learn to hang 10 from resident pro Dustin Franks in a private surf session ($120; just sign-up with the concierge)
– Rent stand-up paddle boards for $20 an hour or canoes for $30 an hour, and take to Fort Pond
– Explore the historic Montauk Lighthouse on Turtle Hill in Montauk Point State Park (+1 631 668 2544; www.montauklighthouse.com)
– Head to Hither Hills State Park off Old Montauk Highway for hiking and biking trails (+1 631 668 2554).
Check out more activities here.
Photo credit: Mr & Mrs Smith
What to Pack
Forget bejeweled beach frocks: wet suits, breezy cover-ups and flip-flops will get the most wear–along with sweaters and hoodies for night-time fireside chilling.
Items from left to right: We The Free Venice Vibes Tank, Crochet Beach Pant, Confetti Rash Guard, Caged Zip Bottoms, Metal Aviators, Ipanema Flip Flops, Sari Sequin Hobo, Vintage Beach Towel, Tattoo iPhone Wallet, Ribbed Up Maxi Cardigan, Ramona Fest Sandal, Vintage Small Faces Surf Board.
And check out our Surf Shop for more ideas; trending now – highwaisted bikinis.
More travel ideas from the BLDG 25 Blog.
How beautiful! But i am a poor beach bunny. A more affordable summer getaway would be nice