Beach Plum Resort

In terms of small, humble beachside lodging, the Beach Plum Resort ticks all the boxes -- it has a homey ambience, simple style, and a laid-back ethos that's all just a short walk across the road to the beach. The complex is made up of three two-story accommodation blocks, plus the main building that holds the reception area. Exteriors are covered in shaker shingles, ubiquitous in Montauk, and the buildings are separated by manicured lawns. The lobby of the hotel is small, but bright and clean, with lilac walls and floral-patterned armchairs plus free water, newspapers, and tourist information leaflets for guests. The property attracts both couples and families looking for the chance to stay right next to the ocean, without any pretense or fuss.

Beach Plum Resort is set on Old Montauk Highway, a road lined with similar properties that parallels the busy Montauk Highway. It's a quiet area on the outskirts of what is increasingly becoming a hectic little summer town. There is a beautiful sandy beach just across the street from the property, a one- or two-minute walk through the sand dunes. Downtown Montauk has a wide range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars -- it's a 15-minute walk from the hotel, which may be too long for some guests. Some guests choose to drive, as the property offers free parking, and some cycle. Boat hire and mini golf are available at the Puff ‘n’ Putt Family Fun Center, which is a 10-minute walk from the property. Ditch Plains -- the best-known Montauk beach for surfing -- is a five-minute drive from the hotel. The train station for access to New York City is a five-minute drive from the hotel and trains to Penn Station takes three to four hours. Driving to the city takes nearly three hours, though that varies wildly depending on seasonal and weekend traffic.

There are a variety of room types available at Beach Plum -- Studio, One and Two-Bedroom Units, and Cottages, which are ideal for families or groups. This is a condo-style property and each unit is privately owned, so decor varies throughout. However, many have an appropriately nautical look, with decor that includes an abundance of soft blues and white, dark carpeting or wood laminate flooring, and light wood veneer furniture with simple lines. Regardless of size, each unit provides the same features like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, living area, and full kitchen with stove, microwave, fridge, coffeemaker, and crockery and cutlery. All units have patios or balconies, and many of those have ocean views, although views from rooms on the second floor are the best. The walls are a little thin, so guests can expect some noise from neighboring rooms, and while rooms have a homey, comfy feel to them, some of the furniture and wall art is a bit outdated and won't be to everyone's tastes.

Most guests come to the Beach Plum Resort for access to the beautiful beach. It’s a short walk away through the sand dunes and is quieter than most other beaches in Montauk. Being a small resort, there aren’t a huge number of facilities on offer at the property, but there’s a heated outdoor pool with cushioned lounge chairs and a sun deck with tables, chairs, and parasols. The backyard area also has picnic tables and BBQ grills, and a bike rack is provided for guests who choose to cycle. During the summer, free yoga and fitness classes are offered to guests, and parking and Wi-Fi are free of charge too. There is no on-site restaurant and no meals are offered.