Looking for a mid-week retreat away from the hustle, bustle, and (gasp!) dreaded August renters of the more western Hamptons? Well that's where Gurney's Inn in Montauk is here to help.
Though our two days at Gurney's left us wanting more, we have to say it really was the perfect mini-vacation. Filled with sun, spa, and of course, lots of seafood, we can't think of a better place to spend a Tuesday and Wednesday in the Hamptons. Not convinced yet? Well, follow our two-day plan and you'll no doubt be hooked on Gurney's for the rest of the summer.
Tuesday : Spa - Seafood - Live Music in the Sand
Though we've been staring at the Atlantic all summer, the view from the hotel room's deck was gorgeous. The room itself was generous in size and came equipped with free Wifi (which, as bloggers, we DIG!). On the premises of Gurney's Inn is the Seawater Spa where guests can receive everything from Swedish massages to sea shell pedicures. The atmosphere is more than relaxing, with a super friendly staff and impeccable facilities; we had access to the steam room, jacuzzi, sauna, and showers that you'd be sorry not to take advantage of. Leaving the spa will leave you, 150% refreshed, soothed, and, perhaps, hungry!
But look no further than the The Sea Grille at Gurney's overlooking the ocean. Indulge in the fresh seafood offerings: oysters, crab, scallops, shrimp, fluke, and more locally caught seafood that never ceases to satisfy. Also, there is an extensive menu for cocktail martinis (disclaimer: a great cocktail menu is a must for any restaurant to get my approval) so mix it up and definitely try something new. The Sea Grille has the perfect summer ambiance. It serves up great food without the stuffy, pretentious atmosphere that you sometimes find yourself stumbling into out in the Hamptons. To conclude the dining experience, we suggest trying a slice of mud pie and/or pecan pie.
Following dinner on Tuesday night was live music on the beach by The Legendary Hooligans. The beach bar was open for business, and the night was filled with tunes and tequila. It was a family friendly night, but we also had a great time as the twentysomethings we are.
Wednesday : Sun - More Seafood - Lots of Laughs
Wednesday morning left us time to check out the beach, which was aboslutely gorgeous. Prepare to sprawl on your beach chair and relax under your umbrella on the calm beach which has just the right amount of people to both relax and socialize.
Of course, every great resort needs a great bar, and Gurney's Inn succeeds with The Port o' Call Bar. There we met Chris, the ever so knowledgeable bartender, who we're sure could work the bar effortlessly with one hand behind her back. Chris is always willing to create a drink for you if you get tired of your usual cocktail, and we tried some amazing twists on our old favorites. Case in point: she's in the running for one of our fave bartenders in all of the Hamptons.
The Gurney's lobster bake started at 6pm on Wednesday night, where tickets are for sale to each guest for one lobster, and then free reign of the buffet which includes: mussels, shrimp, corn, sausage, salad, and, yes, even more seafood! Needless to say, you'll be more than stuffed (and maybe covered in lobster by the end of your meal), but with the super casual vibe at the bake, who cares?! Post lobster bake, guests can head down to the comedy show that takes place in one of the conference rooms, and enjoy a night full of laughs (note: the comics could be a little raunchy - something to keep in mind if you have children).
It was sad to leave Gurney's Inn, but we definitely filled our days while there (and even managed to do some live blogging!). We assure you that it's worth the trek to Montauk for a day or two at this oceanfront resort and spa. It's an incredible reprieve from the usual chaos of life out East during the summer, and you'll definitely enjoy the casual, yet oh so fantastic time away.
Gurney's Inn: 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY. Phone: (631)-668-2345 [website]