Nothing says summer like an early‑morning drive to the end of Long Island. Whether you’re planning to surf at Ditch Plains, picnic by Fort Pond or visit the lighthouse, these tips will help you avoid gridlock, choose the right route and understand beach permit basics—so your Montauk day doesn’t stall in traffic or at the parking lot.
When to leave and which route to take
For eastbound trips, depart before the morning peak or after dinner to dodge weekend surges. Use the Long Island Expressway (I‑495) for pace, then slide onto Route 27 for seaside towns. Keep a flexible schedule and pin coffee or fuel stops outside the busiest hamlets so you can bypass queues when traffic builds.
Beach parking and permit notes
Beach access rules vary by town and season. Some non‑resident beach lots offer limited daily passes; others require seasonal permits and restrict hours. Check local regulations for Montauk, East Hampton and Southampton before you go, and arrive early on sunny weekends—popular lots can fill by mid‑morning.
Smart pick‑up and return
Starting in the city keeps your route simple. Compare airport car rental options if you want late‑night returns, or choose neighborhood convenience with NYC car hire near your hotel. On your last day, allow extra time for gas near the highway to avoid backtracking in village traffic.
What to pack for a smooth day
- Sun protection, water and a cooler for snacks.
- Beach chairs/umbrella that fit your trunk and won’t mark upholstery.
- Printed or digital permit and parking receipt where required.
- Comfortable footwear for rocky entries and shoreline walks.
Routes at a glance
- LIE (I‑495) → Route 27: Fastest for most drivers, with predictable services.
- Southern State → Sunrise Highway (27): A calmer alternative if LIE is snarled; rejoin 27 farther east.
Weekday vs. weekend timing
Fridays eastbound and Sundays westbound are heaviest. For day trips, leave pre‑sunrise and plan dinner late in Montauk so you can drive back after the rush.
EV & charging
If you rent an EV, pin charging stops before Riverhead and check parking rules around chargers near beaches and marinas. Keep a backup Level 2 option in case the first station is busy.
Why Hola Car Rentals
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage.
- No additional fees—save up to 60% guaranteed.
- Cashback on tolls for selected itineraries.
Beach permits at a glance
East End towns manage beaches individually. Many locations issue limited daily parking passes to non‑residents, while some ocean beaches require seasonal stickers and restrict hours for non‑permit holders. Always check town rules for Montauk, East Hampton and Southampton before you go, and keep permits visible on the dashboard or as directed by signage.
Food & fuel planning
Stock up before the final stretch into Montauk so you can roll straight to the beach. Pin a fuel stop near the highway on the way back, and carry a small trash bag and cooler to keep the car tidy. If you’re switching drivers, add them during booking to save time at pick‑up.
Helpful links
- Brand pages for availability and hours: Avis JFK and Hertz JFK.
- Cross‑river returns made easy at Hertz Newark.
Ready for the East End? Book now with Hola Car Rentals for transparent pricing, maximum coverage and a Montauk drive you’ll love.
