Is Montauk Becoming the Ibiza of America? This Chic Hamptons Town Is Hotter Than Ever This Summer

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* Source: https://secretnyc.co/is-montauk-becoming-the-ibiza-of-america-montauk-newyork-surf-lodge/