The End is anything but “the end,” it’s where it all begins. Montauk has plenty of signature spots to enjoy, like waterfront views, quaint narrow streets with local shops and signature cuisine; so when life hands you lemons, drive, clear your head and travel east with no expressways left in sight.

Check out these East End spots to stay, eat and play, and for a more ideas of what to do this summer on Long Island, pick up Pulse’s July/August issue out now.

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Stay

image: montauk yacht club

Gurney’s

Lounge on a king-size daybed on a private beach or take a dip in the ocean, inside. Gurney’s indoor pool uses local seawater that has been filtered and heated to the perfect temperature. There are four unique meal venues that offer soulful Italian classics, American favorites, artisanal coffees and light recipes from the grill. There is also a cocktail club that spins electric playlists for a dynamic dining experience. Go.

Montauk Yacht Club

A stone’s throw from Lake Montauk, this yacht club is more than just a place to stay. Guests have the opportunity to charter a boat, paddleboard and learn to sail. Its convenient location positions visitors minutes away from the lively nightlife of the Hamptons, but if you’re looking for a more reserved evening, indulge in some fresh local shellfish and a sparkling glass of Pinot Grigio at one of the in-house restaurants. Go.

Montauk Manor

Nestled over Signal Hill, Montauk Manor overlooks 12 acres of property; the vistas have panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Gardiner’s Bay and Block Island Sound. Dine al fresco on a Tudor-style balcony while eating some authentic Northern and Southern Italian favorites like the chicken scarpariello or linguine with clams. Sit back and enjoy the view or have some fun on the shuffle board and bocci courts. Go.

Eat

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Gosman’s Restaurant

Sunsets over anchored boats create the perfect coastal backdrop for dining and noshing on fresh seafood. One bite of lobster from the inlet café is all it took for some guests to call it their favorite docking spot. Go.

Grey Lady Montauk

Sister restaurant to Grey Lady in New York City, this hotspot leaves all the hustle and bustle in the Big Apple. No fuss, no-frills and flip flops are welcome. Their king of the grill, the prime hanger steak, is the real talk of the town. Go.

Saltbox

Come straight from the beach, salt kissed skin and all. Saltbox reflects the nautical character of the East End with driftwood style boards and a chic sea ambiance. The chef puts an Asian twist on American pub favorites, like the Asian shrimp tossed with ginger and soy, served with a medium spicy sriracha aioli. Go.

Arbor

Retreat to a tranquil oasis for brunch (weekends only) and dinner. The menu is comprised of Mediterranean-style cuisine, like the Trufata Pizza, dressed in stracciatella cheese, mushrooms, pickled red onions, arugula salad and topped with a white truffle oil. For brunch, the French Toast paired with mixed berries and lemon pepper crispy bacon is just as approachable as the eclectic seating. Go.

Harvest on Fort Pond

Dig into some authentic family-style Mediterranean dishes under the stars on Fort Pond. A sophisticated bar and lounge mixes up signature cocktails like Harvest Sunset made with coconut rums, orange, cranberry and pineapple juice. Pair the 16oz corn fed skirt steak, served with arugula and roast garlic tomato butter, with one of the local Montauk beers on tap. Go.

Swallow East

Small American plates are the signature style of this laid-back hideaway. Try the butternut squash cappuccino soup, “mac & cheese” with orzo, peas, bacon and asiago cream sauce or angus sliders with tomato jam. The atmosphere calls for chatting with friends and escaping everyday demands. Go.

Play

image: catamaran mon tiki

Catamaran Mon Tiki

Come aboard a beautiful Polynesian-inspired sailing catamaran for a romantic evening or some carefree relaxation. At daybreak or dusk set out to discover areas of Montauk that lie under the radar. Go.

Camp Hero State Park

This 415-acre park is home to maritime forests, an extensive piece of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean and a historic military installation. Set the benchmark for expedition across the extensive system of trails available for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Go.

Deep Hollow Ranch

From saddles to bridles this ranch is as Western as it gets, with real cowboys and cowgirls as trail guides. Ride along the shore of Block Island Sound and catch a glimpse of America’s rich history at the oldest working ranch in the US. Go.