It's not just the lighthouse, state parks and beaches in Montauk. There's plenty more fun to be had from an athletic and recreational standpoint.
The overwhelming majority of streets are designed for both motorists and cyclists. On any given day, you'll likely see several picks of bicyclists pedaling up and down the hills. Oh yes, it's true. Long Island isn't all flat ground. Just wait until you get near the Montauk Lighthouse on your bike and you're staring at the asphalt version of the monster wave at the end of "The Perfect Storm."
Montauk Bike Shop rents various types of bikes as low as $8 an hour. There's a two-hour minimum, with half-day, full-day and weekly packages available. They also carry all the necessary bike paraphernalia just in case you blow out a tire or the chain falls off your bike. Sorry for that whammy, but these things happen.
Given its proximity to water and the wide roads to accommodate bikers and runners, Montauk hosts sprint triathlons and Ironman triathlons every summer and autumn.
Hiking Trails
The Hither Hills West Overlook on Montauk Highway serves as a starting point for more than a dozen hiking trails. For the most part, these trails are narrow and somewhat rugged, with nature dominating in some areas. Be safe, wear pants.
Along Second House Road near Fort Pond, there's the Montauk Mountain Preserve. The six-acre area, maintained by the Nature Conservancy, begins with a steep climb.
Camp Hero State Park and
Shadmoor State Park also have several trails worth your while.
Horseback riding
Saddle up for a walk around the trail or even the beach at Rita's Stables off West Lake Drive.
A half-hour jaunt on horseback will take you around the stables' perimeter, and a one-hour ride will put you, the horse and your friends on a trail. Beach rides are possible for groups. It's by appointment only, so call 631-668-5453 before you show up.
Pony rides and a petting farm make the kids happy, too.
Surfing
Ditch Plains is the place to catch waves. A jetty at Ditch Plains creates longboard waves, making a great spot for surfers. There's also Turtle Cove, right next to Montauk State Park.
Ditch Plains
(surf report) is free to town residents; Turtle Cove has no public parking, it's foot-path only.
Don't forget the Alamo, another popular break off Montauk.
Swing through Air and Speed on Main Street for all the necessary surfer gear.
Montauk Downs State Park
If traditional sports are more your bag, head to the
golf course at
Montauk Downs, considered to be among the best golf courses in the country and voted as No. 2 by
ExploreLI.com.
The park also has several tennis courts available. Call ahead to reserve a court, at a cost of roughly $16 an hour. Courts open Memorial Day weekend.
