How to Get to Montauk from New York City [2025-2026 Guide]
Travel from NYC to Montauk by LIRR train (3 hrs), Hampton Jitney bus (3–3.5 hrs), car via Long Island Expressway (3 hrs), or summer ferry. Compare travel times and costs.
🚆 By Train: Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Montauk
The LIRR Montauk Branch, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), is one of the most popular ways to reach Montauk.
- Departure: Trains leave from Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) or Grand Central Madison in Manhattan.
- Travel Time: Around 3 hours direct (longer if you need to transfer at Jamaica).
- Arrival: Montauk Station, located close to the village and beaches.
- Cost: Approximately $25–$30 one way (off-peak), higher on peak weekends.
- Bonus: No traffic stress and comfortable seating.
👉 Best for travelers who want a reliable and car-free journey to the Hamptons.
🚌 By Bus: Hampton Jitney & Hampton Luxury Liner
Several luxury coach services operate daily between NYC and Montauk.
- Hampton Jitney and Hampton Luxury Liner are the two main operators.
- Departure Points: Midtown Manhattan, Upper East Side, and sometimes Downtown.
- Travel Time: Around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Cost: $30–$40 one way.
- Features: Wi-Fi, snacks, reclining seats, and luggage space.
👉 A solid option if you want comfort and direct service without worrying about parking.
🚗 By Car: Driving from NYC to Montauk
Driving gives you the most flexibility if you want to explore Long Island along the way.
- Distance: About 120 miles (193 km).
- Driving Time: Around 3 hours without traffic, but summer weekends can stretch it to 5+ hours.
- Route: Take I-495 East (Long Island Expressway) → Route 27 (Sunrise Highway/Montauk Highway) all the way to Montauk.
- Parking: Many hotels and public beaches require permits, especially in peak season.
👉 Perfect if you want to stop at wineries, Hamptons villages, or beaches en route.
⛴️ By Ferry: Seasonal Option via Block Island or Orient Point
While there’s no direct NYC–Montauk ferry, you can combine train/bus with a ferry in summer.
- Option 1: Ferry from New London, CT or Block Island, RI to Montauk (seasonal).
- Option 2: Take the Long Island Ferry from New London, CT to Orient Point, then drive to Montauk.
- Travel Time: Ferry trips add 2–3 extra hours.
- Cost: Around $30–$50 per person (plus car fees if driving).
👉 A fun, scenic way if you’re already in New England or want to add variety.
🚖 Summary of Options
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 LIRR Train | 3 hrs | $25–$30 | Stress-free travel |
| 🚌 Hampton Jitney | 3–3.5 hrs | $30–$40 | Comfortable direct ride |
| 🚗 Driving | 3–5 hrs | Gas/tolls ~$40+ | Flexibility & stops |
| ⛴️ Ferry Combo | 5–6 hrs | $30–$50+ | Scenic, seasonal travel |
✅ Final Travel Tips
- Summer Traffic: Expect delays on weekends if driving.
- Tickets: Buy LIRR or Jitney tickets online in advance, especially in peak season.
- Luggage: Buses handle luggage better; LIRR has overhead racks.
- Best Time: Visit Montauk in late spring or early fall to avoid heavy crowds.
❓ FAQs About Getting to Montauk from NYC
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to Montauk from NYC?
The LIRR train or driving off-peak hours take about 3 hours, making them the fastest options.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to get to Montauk?
The LIRR train is usually the most affordable at $25–$30 one way.
Q3: Can I take a ferry directly from NYC to Montauk?
No direct ferry exists, but seasonal ferries from Block Island and New London, CT connect to Montauk.
Q4: How long is the drive from NYC to Montauk in summer?
On summer weekends, the 3-hour drive can stretch to 5+ hours due to Hamptons traffic.
Q5: Do I need a car in Montauk?
Not necessarily. Montauk has local taxis, shuttles, and bike rentals, though a car is helpful for exploring surrounding beaches.