Montauk Point State Park
Walk the wind-exposed Atlantic edge beside New York's oldest lighthouse.
Artwork inspired by William Merritt Chase
At Long Island's eastern tip, Montauk Point State Park trades the broad sand of Jones Beach for a rocky, wind-exposed shore. Walks and overlooks face the meeting of Atlantic water and Block Island Sound; the neighboring Montauk Point Lighthouse offers a striking orientation landmark. The lighthouse is a separate historic attraction, so a park visit does not automatically include tower admission.
Come for the shoreline and headland rather than assuming a conventional bathing beach. Sturdy shoes help on uneven paths, and strong wind or surf can make the edge uncomfortable. The park is open through the year, but car fees are collected mainly in the warmer months. Check lighthouse hours and tickets separately if the climb is central to the trip.
- Coast
- Atlantic and Block Island Sound
- Terrain
- Rocky, exposed
- Neighbor
- Montauk Point Lighthouse
Quick guide
- Walk the headland
- The rocky shoreline is the point's essential experience.
- Separate the tickets
- Park parking and lighthouse admission are managed independently.
Know before you go
- Orient at the light
- Use the lighthouse to understand the headland's position.
- Follow designated paths
- Stay back from unstable or wave-washed edges.
- Watch the water
- Birds and surf give different views by season.
- Check tower access
- Lighthouse tours have their own schedule and fee.
Good to know
This park is not a lifeguarded swimming beach; coastal weather changes quickly.
Notice these
- rocky headland
- Atlantic views
- Montauk Point Lighthouse