The Best Things to do at Ditch Plains Beach in Montauk, NY
Some of the best things to do in Montauk, New York are beach days, sunbathing, mountain biking, fishing and believe it or not, surfing! It’s one of the best places to vacation on Long Island so you definitely don’t want to miss out. Don’t forget that there are perfect Montauk Vacation Rentals on the island that will provide you with the best vacation in upstate New York.
Now, most people head to Montauk Beach which is one of the best beaches on Long Island – but you know what the best beach always brings? Crowds. Who wants to go to the beach and struggle to find a spot where you can’t spread out and enjoy at least a little bit of your own space? Okay…this one might be crowded too.
So, we’re here to give you one of the best options to use when avoiding Montauk Beach. Between the several beaches that you can choose from Ditch Plains is probably my all-time favorite – especially if you’re into adventures.
Some of our beaches are rocky, some are sandy, some have heavy surf and some have calmer waters. Some beaches are family-friendly, and some resident-only beaches are considered, unofficially, nude. So…do your research beforehand so you’re not caught off guard.
Anyways, Ditch Plains Beach is one of the best beaches out there for surfers and for those people who love to look out past the horizon. So let’s dive into Ditch Plains Beach!
Why We Love the “Ditch”
Ditch Plains Beach is the perfect spot for surfers, boogie-boarders, and water watchers. Locals call it the “Ditch” or “The End”. The original name on the deed from 1676 was “Choppaughshapaughhausuck” which comes from the original Algonquian language of the area. It means the place where the brook opens.
One of my favorite parts about this beach is that there is no development around it. So you’re not surrounded by hotels and restaurants – just the natural beauty of the Hamptons.
Ditch Plains is on the far southeast side of Long Island. It’s two miles from Montauk Village and is extremely easy to get to from anywhere in town. The crowds can be quite heavy in the summer, but you can expect that from all of the beaches in the area on a hot summer day.
If you’re looking to enjoy the beach during cooler times of the year it’s much more casual and relaxed. And if you’re looking to surf, just throw on a wetsuit and head out there!
Let’s Talk Logistics
The Ditch is right in the middle of the town and the lighthouse is off of Ditch Plains road. It can be tough to park in the summer, and it is a residential neighborhood and is known as an East Hampton Town beach. So unless you’re biking or walking you’ll need an East Hampton Town Beach sticker to park nearby.
You can get the sticker by calling the Clerk’s Office, or mailing in the proper documentation in order to receive your sticker.
Now, if you’re planning on hitting the waves then it’s good to know when the lifeguard will be there! During the peak season, from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend there is a lifeguard every day. After Labor day there will only be a lifeguard on the weekends until mid-September. From there on out you’re on your own.
There are restrooms, outdoor showers, and the Ditch Witch, which is a tiny shack that sells burritos, wraps, and salads. They also have candy, coffee, drinks, and ice cream! You don’t even need to leave the beach.
Best Water Sports and Things to do at Ditch Plains Beach
The Ditch is the best beach for surfing, body boarding, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. This beach is known for having the most consistent wave on Long Island. Typically, the waves get larger the farther east you go, and the Ditch is called the end because, well, it’s at the end! You can’t get any further east on Long Island. And, let’s not forget that it is often praised as the best surf on the East Coast.
In the 1960s surfing became really popular at this particular beach and they even held the first Montauk Point Surfing Championships. Now, I won’t lie, the beach during summer is bustling and beautiful – but during the fall and winter? That’s when you want to go surfing.
The beach has reef break waves, and a rocky reef bottom, and is great during the summer and fall. It’s recommended that you bring your longboard, fun board, or hybrid since using a short board is only occasionally possible.
This beach can be fun for surfers at all levels but it’s also great for newbies! You can even get lessons if you need them. They also have board rentals in town so if you’re flying in or if your car is far too packed then don’t fret! You can still get a board for your surfing needs.
You can also rent windsurfing equipment and boogie boards in town.
If the adventurous type of beach day isn’t your cup o’ joe then just head here to enjoy the sights. Since you’re not overcrowded by buildings you will really get the feeling of being out in nature on this lovely beach.
Surrounding Ditch Plains Beach
If you’re worn out from sitting in the sun all week or if you just want to explore what else Montauk has to offer then look no further!
The Ditch is only across the highway from Lake Montauk, it’s right next to Amsterdam Beach State Park, and Camp Hero State Park, and it’s only an 8-minute drive from the Montauk Lighthouse Museum.
No Amsterdam Beach State Park is a 199-acre preserve. They have a 2.6-mile looped trail which is great for all skill levels. It’s a great little walk with some beautiful views at the end.
If conspiracy theories are more your thing then Camp Hero is the park for you. This old military base hosts an abandoned radio tower, two rumored LSD rooms, and beautiful bluffs overlooking the ocean that are rumored to have a time machine under them. You can’t go into any of the buildings due to safety concerns but you can explore the grounds by foot, bicycle, or even horseback. There’s even cross-country skiing in the wintertime.
New York Vacation Rentals Near Ditch Plains Beach
Now that you’re sold on hitting the waves at Ditch Plains Beach let me give you some fantastic options for New York Vacation Rentals by Owner!
Montauk Beach House
This fantastic house has 4 bedrooms and can sleep up to 10 people. There are 3 brand-new bathrooms and even a stone-walled shower outside with a changing room! You can ride your bike right down to the Montauk Lighthouse and Ditch Plains Beach.
This house is also close to restaurants, charter fishing boats, the golf course, and of course the beaches. Plus Long Island Rail Road is only a few minutes away so it’s easy to get back to the city or around the Hamptons without getting a car.
Montauk Beach Bungalow West
This charming bungalow is a cozy 2 bedroom that can sleep up to 4 people. Keep in mind, if you’re planning on visiting in the summer they require monthly rentals (which they may have discounts – so make sure you ask)!
The apartment has an ocean view and the beach is only 500 feet. They also have a BBQ and a fire pit so you can truly enjoy your nights by the ocean. With a full kitchen, a king bed, and a storage area that is fantastic for storing bikes or beach gear (surfboards too).
They even have a public bus that stops right in front of the house, and the Hopper which runs during the summer. If those aren’t your speed you can easily bike around town as you’re only .4 miles from Montauk Village and only a short trip away from Ditch Plains Beach.
Large Montauk House with Lake Montauk Views
If you’re looking for views of Lake Montauk (right across the way from Ditch Plains Beach) then this is the house for you. This post-modern house has 6 bedrooms and sleeps up to 12 people. They even have 5 bathrooms so you won’t have to fight over it in the mornings.
This house has exposure to the southwest so you get lovely sunset views off of the back deck. It has a full kitchen, gas fireplaces, and a Jacuzzi in the master bedroom. The house has 3 queen-sized bedrooms, 2 bedrooms with twin beds, and a huge playroom for the little ones.
It’s a short beach ride away from Gin Beach and Ditch Plains. This is a great location for 2 – 3 families!
The Closest House to Ditch Plains Beach
The above text is not an exaggeration. This house is a mere 250 feet away from Ditch Plains Beach, and yes you have ocean views. It is exactly 1 minute and 3 seconds from the beach sand to the front lawn of this newly renovated home.
This large house has 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and can sleep up to 8 people. Each bedroom has a bathroom so no fighting for the shower is necessary!
You can’t get any closer than this.
Hilltop Haven
This newly renovated home has central AC and sits right by Montauk Manor. They have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and can sleep up to 6 people. It’s perfect for smaller groups or a single family in this cocooned house that is tucked into the trees and away from the outside world.
They even have an oversized shed that will be perfect for storing paddleboards, boogie boards, wakeboards, and of course, surfboards! Also lawn chairs, coolers, and whatever other summer gear you have.
It’s only a 5-minute drive to the Ditch or the Docks, and 3 minutes from town. Plus, they’re pet friendly!
Montauk Ocean Front
Montauk’s premier oceanfront property is great for a very small group that wants to dine by the ocean, wake up by the ocean and just be all about the ocean.
This charming house has 3 bedrooms, and 1 bath and can sleep up to 4 people. You’re right by all of the town activities and steps from the sand! They even have parking for 2 cars off-street and you can easily access the Hopper shuttle to explore the area.
Ditch Plains beach is only 3 miles away, the Montauk Lighthouse is only 8. It’s a fantastic, cozy location for girls’ nights with its large deck that overlooks the ocean.
Charming 2 Bedroom in Hither Hills
Heading a tiny ways back from the sand there is a charming 2 bedroom house that sleeps up to 5 people. It is a mere walk or short drive to a private beach, or you can sit on the hammock or the porch and enjoy the view from there!
They have a brand new kitchen and an outside shower, and if you’re looking for a more public beach or for good surf then you’re not far from Ditch Plains at all!
Montauk Beach Home With Ocean View
If you want the best views in Montauk, then this brilliant beach home is for you! Featuring an ocean view from all rooms and a spacious park-like setting, this private getaway offers a refreshing interlude from the busy daily grind.
The beach home’s excellent location makes it within close proximity to the most beautiful beaches that Montauk, NY has to offer. Furthermore, the house is completely refurbished to ensure a pleasurable stay.
Other highlights include an open floor concept with a gorgeous fireplace, soundproofed bedroom walls for privacy, high-speed internet, central air conditioning and heating, and an expansive wrap-around composite deck with remote control awning and LED lighting.
This Montauk beach home has four bedrooms and two full bathrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests.
Ditch Plains Gem Near the Beach
You don’t have to worry about limited or restricted parking at the beach with this charming home that’s only a short walk away. This vacation rental is situated at the highest part of the street which means you get the best Montauk breezes and a great overlooking view of a nature preserve from the deck.
Moreover, the home has everything you need for a relaxing stay including wifi, Smart TV, central air conditioning, and comfortable beds. You’ll also find home essentials such as a washer and dryer, refrigerator, and toaster, among others; and plenty of furniture and beach toys for a fun beach time.
This home away from home features three bedrooms, and two full baths, and can accommodate up to six people.
We’re Ready, Are You?
Montauk may only be 19 square miles but there is so much to see and enjoy here! Whether you want to catch some surfing, relax by the lake or just hang around town there are options that will make your entire party happy.
So, grab your towels, sunscreen, surfboards, and maybe your wetsuits, and let’s hit those beautiful Atlantic waves!
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