What could be better than a little summer getaway? How about a little summer getaway after being cooped up for the last three months? Last week, I put my out of office message up at work, packed up my car, and headed to Montauk for some fresh salt air, a change of scenery, and a little good old rest and relaxation. And that’s exactly what I got at the Breakers, a charming boutique hotel nestled along Old Montauk Highway just outside of town.
The Breakers instantly became my home away from home on the east end of Long Island after visiting in 2018 for a yoga retreat. I was taken by the quaint beachy feel of the property that’s comprised of small cottages and has a pool, plenty of green space, and glimpses of the ocean across the street.
After spending the last few months in quarantine and rarely leaving my neighborhood, it felt like quite a sojourn to venture just a couple of hours east. The farther I drove, the more I felt like I was in a completely different locale—which Montauk might as well be. Montauk is easily one of my favorite destinations that’s right in my own backyard. The cute town has plenty of shops to keep one busy perusing, the fresh seafood can’t be beat, and there are lots to explore by foot. Of course, most go out for the scenery and beaches, which I highly suggest.
But on this trip to Montauk, my only destination was the Breakers. Upon arrival, I was pleased to see that my charming little boutique hotel hadn’t changed at all since my last visit a couple of years ago. The black and white umbrellas still framed the property and the cottages were just as I remembered them. I couldn’t wait to get my check-in text at 4 pm alerting me to my cottage number and providing me with my contact-less access code to enter my room.
Once I found out I was in Cottage #10, a beautiful standalone two-bedroom suite complete with an eat-in kitchenette, living room, bathroom, and private deck, I quickly began unloading the car (which resembled more of a moving truck than a car packed for a two-night stay). Once inside, I took in the wicker light fixtures hanging in the living room, all of the cool artwork, and admired my view from the deck of the pool literally steps from my front door and the beach just a short hike away. Check out my highlights on Instagram to see a complete room tour!
I had feverishly checked the weather starting two weeks before my trip and crossed my fingers that I’d get three sunny days while I was in town. The one thing to know about Montauk is that the weather changes constantly, so what’s predicted and the actual weather outside could be two very different things. On the drive out, which was supposed to be partly sunny, it was incredibly foggy—probably the most fog I’ve ever seen on Long Island. While it wasn’t a beach day, it was the perfect kind of weather to lounge by the pool and decompress after a two-hour drive. After settling in a bit in the cottage it was time to hit the pool, which was made even better when the kind folks at the Breakers sent over some Prosecco! Seriously, what’s better than drinks by the pool?
After a short beach stroll and some time at the pool, I was ready for dinner. The Breakers is located about five minutes outside of town, which makes picking up something to eat convenient. While a lot of restaurants had outdoor dining set up, my comfort level still resides with curbside. So, I opted to pick up food and enjoy it on my very own deck at the Breakers. Since I was in Montauk, Fish and Chips was the only thing that could make the cut for dinner, so I was pleased that it was an option on the menu at so many places. And, let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
One of the reasons I wanted to stay at the Breakers was for all of the privacy and the amenities. It was so nice to have a well-appointed kitchenette, which was complete with a mini-fridge, coffee pot, mugs, glasses, pots, and pans if you wanted to cook. I opted for simple breakfasts during my short stay and packed up some of my favorites from Trader Joe’s. After coffee and breakfast on the deck, it was time to slip into my swimsuit, grab a beach chair, and make the short walk down to the beach (which honestly never gets old).
I was relieved that the beach wasn’t crowded and people were abiding by social distancing guidelines. As someone who has been extremely cautious during the pandemic, I felt completely safe and comfortable out in Montauk and at the Breakers.
My last day at the Breakers arrived much faster than I would’ve liked. Why does time seem to move at warp speed when you’re on vacation? Perhaps it was that there wasn’t anything on the agenda except for being beachside or poolside that made it seem like it went by in the blink of an eye. Either way, I went to the Breakers to get away and to relax, and that’s just what I did. Each day I spent there, I felt a little more like my old self. I felt happy, relaxed and carefree, which I haven’t felt in a while. Sometimes, doing nothing is the best thing one can do for oneself. This getaway was the perfect reset and just what I needed to feel rejuvenated.
Montauk has always had a special place in my heart. There’s something about it that makes you feel transported to a land far away. It’s calmer and quieter than most places I venture to and the more time I spend out there, the more I fall in love with it. If you’re looking for a place that’s within an easy car ride, I highly suggest the Breakers. There’s ample parking, you can’t beat the location if you’re looking for beach or town access, and they have a pool and some grab-and-go snack options in their check-in area for guests. Of course, the cottage amenities are really what make the Breakers unique. Their cottages range from a studio to a premium cabana, and even a two bed and two bath option. It’s perfect if you want your own space or you’re traveling with friends and family. I went out during the week, which was a quieter time to head out to Montauk, and I would highly recommend a mid-week stay if you’re looking for extra serenity.
So, while my getaway to the Breakers came and went, I left Montauk feeling like a whole new person, which I just can’t put a price tag on. Now, not only does Montauk have a special place in my heart, but the Breakers does, too. I’m already planning my next trip back because it was just that amazing.
Thank you to the Breakers for an incredible stay!
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