Mornings in Montauk

When in need of nature, one place I recommend is Montauk. Specifically, camping at Hither Hills Campgrounds by the beach. The ability to wake up to the sounds of waves crashing, a couple of birds, and wildlife running by your tent is utterly bissful.

For myself, I wake up early, just as the sun is about to rise. All is quiet on the campgrounds, where there are no televisions buzzing, ringtones going off, or even much talking at this time of day. Once up, I need to grab a windbreaker or a sweatshirt because of the wind, throw on some flip flops, and make my way down to the shore.

A walk along the beach at this time is magical as the waves are easing in and out of the smooth shoreline. The orange sun peaks its way above the string of houses, and very few souls can be seen. If anyone is out on the beach at this time, it is the occasional set of morning walkers (maybe three at most) and a couple fishermen. Do they ever catch anything with their fishing rods? I wave politely at them and make sure not to walk through the cast fishing lines.

With the sun slowly rising, this is a good time to look for sea glass and other shells as I approach the mile mark past camp. Makes sense as all of the “good stuff” is gone around the areas with the highest foot traffic. Yet, once I have my fill of saltly air and treasures in my pocket, I need to make my way to camp where my crew awaits.

With all of the company awake, the hardest decision comes to round out the morning: breakfast. In the Montauk area, there are multiple ways to approach breakfast. The best option (in my opinion) for mixed company is to go into town for a coffee and a bite to eat.

• For something light and sweet, I suggest the Montauk Bake Shoppe. My order is an iced coffee, and either a butterfly cookie or a lobster cookie (lobster meat not included).
• For something savory with a side of lunch for later, I advise visiting Herbs. Their fried chicken is highly recommended for lunch on the beach.
• For a sit down place that feels like childhood, I recommend Johnny’s Pancake House. Definitely get the pancakes, add some syrup, and order something on the side.

Essentially, when in town, there are no bad options and there are more places to eat all within the town’s large roundabout and further down the road. Your choice depends on your style and making sure you have enough sustenance for a day at the beach or exploring nature.

After breakfast, I enjoy taking the Old Montauk Highway to return to camp, as the view of the hills and beach are lovely. Once back at camp, I grab a book, boogy board, snacks, and beach bag, and make my way down the dunes. I stay within the yellow and green flags for swimming purposes, watch out for jelly fishes, and enjoy a day at the beach!