NYC to Montauk: The Easiest Ways to Get There
Heading to Montauk from NYC? Compare the drive, the LIRR, and the Jitney, plus what changes once summer traffic kicks in.
A Montauk weekend starts with choosing how to get there. Montauk sits at the far end of the South Fork, beyond Southampton and East Hampton. You can take the LIRR, ride a bus, drive, or book a private car for an NYC to Montauk trip.
How Far Is Montauk From NYC?
Manhattan and Montauk are separated by roughly 120 road miles. When the roads are clear, allow about three to 3.5 hours behind the wheel. The common route takes you east on the Long Island Expressway (I-495), followed by Sunrise Highway and Route 27.
Friday and weekend traffic can stretch that time in summer. Congestion often builds after Southampton. Past Amagansett, Route 27 becomes a two-lane road, so progress can slow during the final miles into Montauk.
Taking the LIRR to Montauk
LIRR trains reach Montauk on the Montauk Branch. It usually takes 3.5–4 hours to reach Montauk by train from NYC. Your train may connect through Jamaica, although some summer weekend departures continue without a transfer.
Review the timetable for your date because service varies. Travelers bound for East Hampton can end their rail journey sooner. The East Hampton LIRR stop is the practical choice when your hotel, rental, or event is there.
Jitney Option
Another way to head east is by scheduled coach. The Hampton Jitney and Hampton Luxury Liner carry passengers from Manhattan through the South Fork and on to Montauk.
Expect the journey to last four hours or longer. Coaches make several stops and share Route 27 with regular traffic. This option saves you from driving, but you still travel according to set departure times and pickup locations.
Getting a Private Car to Montauk
Groups often have more to manage than the ride itself: suitcases, surf gear, wedding clothes, or several people leaving together. A private car lets everyone start at the same Manhattan address and continue to Montauk in one vehicle.
With a Montauk car service, the trip can end right at your rental, hotel, Ditch Plains, or another local address. There’s no need to switch trains or arrange transportation after getting off a bus. Summer road delays still apply, so reserving 24–48 hours ahead is a smart move for busy weekends.
Best Time to Make the Trip
Weekdays usually bring fewer weekend travelers to the roads. In summer, starting earlier can also help you get farther east before traffic builds.
September and October offer another option. Montauk becomes less crowded after the summer rush, while places such as Ditch Plains and Montauk Point remain good reasons to head east. Check seasonal opening times before visiting Montauk Point Lighthouse.
FAQ
How long does it take to get from NYC to Montauk?
With clear roads, allow around three to 3.5 hours by car. Rail travel is usually closer to 3.5–4 hours, and scheduled buses often need four hours or more. Road trips can take another one or two hours during heavy summer traffic.
Is there a direct train from NYC to Montauk?
Yes, certain LIRR trains continue to Montauk without a change. Other departures connect at Jamaica. Direct options and departure times vary with the season and day of the week, so confirm the timetable for your date.
Is it worth driving to Montauk, or better to take the bus or train?
Think about what happens after you arrive. The LIRR keeps you off congested highways, and scheduled coaches remove the need to drive. A car takes you to your actual Montauk address and gives groups more room to plan around bags, beach gear, and their own departure time.
