Hotel Marran

Last summer, in August 2024, after finishing the Playtime NY fair, I set off on a family road trip across the US heading towards Canada. Our first stop was Montauk. I had been there about 12 years earlier, back when there were barely any proper roads. At the time, I was the Creative Director at Oysho and we visited for inspiration for our beachwear collection.

Back then, The Surf Lodge was the hotel of the moment. We stayed there, and I still remember how its boutique felt like an ode to the American summer, full of charm and effortless taste. I fell in love with the place and always dreamed of coming back. So this time, I made the most of being nearby to return. With even more places to discover and things to see, it remains just as wild and striking as I remembered. I love the lifestyle here, what I would call barefoot luxury.

Montauk completely won us over. We felt a special atmosphere in every corner, and it became pure inspiration for our SS25 collection Salty Water.

WHERE TO STAY: Marran Montauk

This time, we stayed at a hotel that completely stole our hearts. We barely left. With sweeping ocean views, direct access to the beach, where they host evening picnics and bonfires and a pool suspended above the sea, everything was magical. The music, the bar, the mojitos, the energy… Every detail was just right. The rooms were spectacular, minimal yet perfect, with every product from Le Labo and an architecture that blends seamlessly into the dunes. It felt harmonious and grounded, as if it belonged to the landscape.

The atmosphere, the people, the feeling… Every afternoon they lit fires and brought out marshmallows for the kids to toast. And they have Mostrador a space where you can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner, everything made right there. The in-house bakery is incredible, the salads fresh and simple, the food comforting and easy.

Honestly, it might be the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in. Not because it was luxurious, but because of how it made us feel. It was the kind of place you never want to leave a place that felt like home, or better.

WHERE TO STAY: The Surf Lodge

The Surf Lodge is a must-visit. Aesthetically, it’s stunning, pure Montauk style. Overlooking the lake, it has only 10 rooms with simple, perfectly curated decor that reflects the local vibe. The house features a large terrace facing the water, and it's known for its lively atmosphere and sunset parties. I highly recommend going for a drink at sunset on the terrace, it's unforgettable.

WHERE TO EAT: Duryea´s

Duryea’s is not to be missed. It was our very first stop when we arrived, just in time for lunch. They don’t take reservations, but you show up and get a turn; we didn’t have to wait long. It overlooks a different side of the ocean, the part that faces the mainland, and almost feels like a lagoon. You can even arrive by boat and dock right there.

The atmosphere is vibrant, the terrace is perfection, and the food… I had the best lobster roll of my life, pure inspiration for our SS25 collection Salty Water. Beyond the restaurant, they also have a bakery, a café, and a beautifully curated shop with food, clothing, and home objects.

WHERE TO EAT: Mavericks Montauk

Dinner at Maverick is truly something special. Also set along the lagoon, the sunset views are absolutely breathtaking. The atmosphere is intimate yet vibrant, and the food was outstanding, I had the grilled crab, and it was unforgettable.

WHAT TO SEE_ The Light House

Cloudy days in Montauk are rare and kind of magical. The one day we had overcast skies, we took the chance to visit the Montauk Lighthouse. With breathtaking views of the Atlantic, it’s an iconic landmark of the peninsula. You can climb to the top and visit a small museum dedicated to the local marine life.

What I loved most? The gift shop, with its beautifully curated selection and the aesthetic of the postcards.

WHERE TO SHOP: Amagansett Escape

While Montauk has charming streets lined with restaurants and surf shops, if you're looking to do some proper shopping, I recommend hopping in the car. Just a straight 15-minute drive away, you’ll find Amagansett, a hidden gem with a completely different vibe. Here, you'll find brands like THE ROW, 180 The Store, and several beautifully curated boutiques full of charm. The atmosphere is relaxed and local, the opposite of East Hampton’s polished luxury.

There’s also Fini Pizza, where people casually sit outside to enjoy a slice and hang out, and Il Buco, where you can have one of the best ragùs I’ve ever tasted.

Saying goodbye (for now)

Thanks for coming along on this trip. This guide isn’t a perfect map,  it’s a collection of moments that we hope inspires you to live your own, in your own way. See you at the next stop!

@found_somewhere