3 Best Bars in Montauk, Long Island

The locals will tell you that this is "a hidden gem," "a kind of a secret around here." Chances are, they would prefer to keep it a secret. They come here for one reason only—to watch the sun lower in the sky, lighting up the bluffs surrounding beautiful Fort Pond. You'll meet nice people at the outdoor daiquiri bar, and even sometimes see kids running around the bar or playing horseshoes. If you want to have a meal with your sunset, a variety of options includes jerk chicken wings, salads, wraps, seafood, and lobster entrees.

With drink specials and fun events throughout the week—like carnivals and parties with lawn games and goldfish races—and an occasionally raucous post-college crowd, this place has been compared with the Jersey Shore. With its beachfront location and ocean views, it's got a laid-back beach-party vibe and frequently has live bands. The food (lunch and dinner) gets high marks.

On scenic Lake Montauk this place is part bar/lounge, part restaurant, part hotel, but the real draws are the young, hipster vibe and über-cool indie bands that play here. The cocktails, like Brazilian-style capirinha and ginger-mint lemonade, are pricey but delicious. Get here early, especially when a popular band is playing; the place packs out to capacity, and you could get turned away. If you want to guarantee your spot, you can reserve table service for a minumum of $1,000 for 6 people or $1,800 for a group of 8; if you stand in line, the price is considerably less (ticket prices vary per event).