Sun-drenched days, DJ-fueled nights, celeb-packed weekends, and afterparties that go until sunrise—if that sounds like Ibiza, you’d be right.
But you don’t need a passport to get there. You just need to hop on a train to Montauk.
The idea of Montauk as “America’s Ibiza” recently started gaining traction on TikTok, thanks to dance music creator Bobby Hendrickson who pointed out the town’s seasonal energy, DJ-driven parties, and beach culture.
And honestly? He’s not wrong.
This Hamptons hotspot, at the far eastern tip of Long Island, transforms from a once-sleepy surf town into one of the East Coast’s most exclusive (and electric) summer escapes—drawing crowds that include Manhattan elites, international jet-setters, and a who’s who of music, fashion, and nightlife.
New York’s answer to Ibiza—no plane ticket required
For years, Montauk was known for its rustic charm and laid-back surfer energy—but these days, it’s also home to luxury beach clubs, pop-up parties, exclusive brand takeovers, and DJ sets that rival Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Much like Ibiza, Montauk is a seasonal destination, meaning when summer hits, the town explodes with energy—vibey day clubs, nighttime afterparties, and a rotating roster of world-renowned DJs.
Even emerging artists are carving out space here, with boutique venues and beach bars giving them a place to shine alongside the big names.
The Surf Lodge: The heart of the scene
At the center of it all is The Surf Lodge, Montauk’s most iconic music-and-lifestyle hub.
Founded by Jayma Cardoso in 2008, it’s where barefoot luxury meets waterfront beats, hosting high-profile performances in an effortlessly bohemian setting right on Fort Pond.
The 2025 season (which kicked off back in May) is its biggest yet, having already celebrated highlights like a Casablanca-designed beach takeover, Ned’s Club cultural programming, Recess zero-proof cocktails, exclusive VIP collabs, and DJ sets all summer long.
Already in the past couple of months, the high-profile spot has welcomed some of the genre’s most sought after music acts, including the likes of Michael Bibi, Gorgon City, Camelphat, and many more.
Here’s a look at the remaining lineup of performers hitting the stage in July and August:
- July 16 – Nancy Atlas
- July 18 – Dombresky
- July 20 – Dasha
- July 21 – Kate Usher
- July 23 – Nancy Atlas
- July 25 – Cheat Codes
- July 26 – Disclosure
- July 27 – Vintage Culture
- July 28 – Kate Usher
- July 30 – Nancy Atlas
- July 31 – Double Touch
- August 1 – Adam Ten
- August 2 – Cassian
- August 4 – Kate Usher
- August 6 – Nancy Atlas
- August 8 – LP Giobbi
- August 9 – Bakermat
- August 10 – Grace Bowers
- August 11 – Donavon Frankenreiter
- August 11 – Kate Usher
- August 13 – Nancy Atlas
- August 14 – Monkey Safari
- August 15 – Klingande
- August 16 – Special Guest
- August 18 – Kate Usher
- August 20 – Nancy Atlas
- August 22 – Hayden James
- August 23 – The Knocks
- August 24 – Marten Lou
- August 25 – Kate Usher
- August 29 – Cloonee
- August 30 – Carlita
- August 31 – ANOTR
More than just The Surf Lodge
While The Surf Lodge gets a lot of buzz, Montauk’s Ibiza energy stretches beyond one venue, taking over the entire town like it’s the White Island.
- Gurney’s Montauk offers its own luxe day club with beachside cabanas and cocktails
- Duryea’s delivers sunset dinners with serious South of France vibes
- The Palm Tree Music Festival returns each year with a mix of artists curated by the festival’s founder Kygo
- And there’s no shortage of private parties, boat gatherings, and off-the-radar pop-ups happening all summer long
How to Montauk from NYC
- Long Island Rail Road: Take the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station to Montauk (about 3 hours)
- Drive: Around 3 hours depending on traffic
- Boat: Montauk’s marinas fill with yachts and weekend boaters—yes, it’s very that girl
