Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Montauk. Montauk Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of MTP:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Montauk
You have two main options for getting from Montauk Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What’s Worth Seeing in Montauk
If you head into Montauk, here are two things worth checking out:
Montauk Point Lighthouse is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Ditch Plains Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MTP, you can spend time at Montauk Airport FBO Lounge or try Aircraft Observation Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Montauk Layover
- In the city: Montauk Airport Diner and Harvest on Fort Pond are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Montauk.
- At the airport: FBO Coffee & Refreshments and Grab-and-Go Snacks (FBO) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Montauk:
Transport to the city and back runs about $13 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $25 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $48 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Montauk.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at MTP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Montauk’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MTP, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Montauk itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MTP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Montauk genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.