JFK to Montauk: Your Complete Travel Guide with Attractions & Costs
Did You Know? Montauk is also called “The End” of Long Island and the home to New York’s oldest lighthouse. It was commissioned by George Washington in 1796.
Going for a premium trip, a seaside vacation, or a therapeutic getaway? Don’t worry, just turn your JFK to Montauk trip into an exciting expedition with a therapeutic ride and fun-filled attractions. This guide will help you explore the best travel options, must-see spots, and more, letting you have an unforgettable journey.
Breakdown of Transport Options from JFK to Montauk
Let us dive into this detailed breakdown of all the available travel options for the JFK to Montauk route.
1. Private Car Service & Luxury Transfers
Go for a private car service if you want a direct and smooth journey from Montauk to JFK and vice versa. Experience VIP and rich premium transport with NYC United Limo. Enjoy door-to-door private transfers, amenities and chauffeured black vehicles with no wait time. It takes about 2.5 hours by a private car and costs according to the service you are getting.
2. Train (Long Island Rail Road – LIRR)
It takes about 3 to 3.5 hours and costs around $25 to $35 by train. You can take the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station and it takes about 10 minutes to cover this distance. From there, travel to the Long Island Rail Road Montauk Branch. Keep in mind that sometimes, some trains require you to travel to Babylon or Hampton Bays. Unfortunately, it is not an ideal travel option for corporate travelers or VIPs with tight schedules due to long travel time and limited train schedules.
3. Bus (Hampton Jitney / Hampton Luxury Liner)
It can take about 3 to 4 hours from JFK to Montauk, depending on the traffic. It costs around $40 to $60 for one way. However, it’s not an ideal travel option for private people and clean freaks as it is a public transport option for large groups. People with medical conditions like claustrophobia and asthma should avoid crowded transport options.
4. Driving (Personal Car / Rental)
It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours from Montauk to JFK and vice versa. It costs around $10 to $15 for one way (if you are using toll roads). You can take the Southern State Parkway to Sunrise Highway for a direct drive if you are driving from JFK to Montauk. You can also take the Long Island Expressway before merging onto NY27E for an alternative route. However, It is not ideal to drive if you have some important event to attend there, the hectic drive and heavy traffic will leave you tired.
“My friends and I booked our ride with NYC United limo for our trip from JFK to Montauk and our experience with them was just perfect! The best thing about their service was the certified and uniformed chauffeur. We felt super safe and comfortable thanks to his professional yet super friendly nature. It was a very peaceful ride, thanks to the clean vehicle and the stops we got to enjoy during our trip. I highly recommend their service to friend groups traveling for fun, especially females, because of the level of comfort and the sense of security you feel while traveling with them.”
– Jessica J.
Best Options Based on Priorities
Priorities | Best Travel Options |
Most Affordable | LIRR Train (~$25, 3.5 hours). |
Most Comfortable | Private Car Service (~2.5 hours, $$$). |
Best for Tourists | Bus (relaxing, no driving, ~4 hours). |
Must-visit Spots from JFK Airport to Montauk: Turn Your Journey into An Adventure
Let’s make your journey memorable with the following attractions along the way:
1. Jones Beach State Park
It is located in Wantagh, NY, about 20 miles from JFK Airport. It is known as one of Long Island’s most famous beaches, with a beautiful boardwalk and Jones Beach Theatre.
2. Old Westbury Gardens
This is situated in Old Westbury, NY, about 27 miles from JFK Airport. It is an eye-catching historic mansion and botanical garden, perfect for nature lovers.
3. Long Island Aquarium
It is situated in Riverhead, NY, about 70 miles from JFK Airport. It features interesting marine exhibits, shark dives and penguins, perfect for nature lovers and families with kids traveling from Montauk to JFK and vice versa.
4. The Hamptons (Southampton & East Hampton)
It is about 90 to 100 miles from JFK Airport, the hometown of a lot of celebrities. It has some high-end brand stores, art galleries, and relaxing beaches.
5. Wölffer Estate Vineyard
It is located in Sagaponack, NY, about 105 miles from JFK Airport. It is known as one of Long Island’s top wineries with wine-tasting spots, vineyards, and breathtaking sunset views.
6. The Big Duck
It is located in Flanders, NY, and was built in 1931 for local duck farming industry marketing. It is about 75 miles from JFK Airport.
7. Montauk Lighthouse & State Park (Final Destination)
It is situated in Montauk, NY, about 120 miles from JFK Airport. This is the oldest lighthouse in New York, commissioned by George Washington in 1796. It offers pretty lit views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bonus Stops for Food Lovers
- Lobster Roll (“Lunch”) – A heaven for Seafood lovers in Amagansett (~110 miles from JFK).
- Bostwick’s Chowder House – Another spot for seafood lovers in East Hampton (~100 miles from JFK).
“I Had a business proposal to present after a long, tiring flight, so I aimed to hire a luxury car service to unwind on my way to the venue. And NYC United Limo has exceeded my expectations. I informed them about the situation, and they made sure that my ride from JFK to Montauk was quite relaxing and therapeutic. I had a nap and got to prepare my notes afterward. I even got to enjoy some scenic spots too, such a refreshing experience it was!”
– David M.
