We recently returned after 10 amazing days at the Surf Club where we stayed in a poolside/ocean view, one-bedroom duplex. We visit Montauk almost every year and this was the first time the weather fully cooperated. Surf Club's manager, Bill, was very helpful and accommodating and just a generally decent guy. Sylvester and Teresa were a pleasure to see each day as they helped keep our rooms neat and tidy after our small children swept through (and they were always smiling). Matt, the lifeguard, is right out of central casting. Not only does he totally look the part, but he is an amazing guard. My 3 1/2 -year old daughter and 2-year old son are still learning to swim and made great strides under Matt's watchful eye. He would shadow kids, walking along the edges of the pool when a child was swimming out of arms' reach from his/her parents. Bill told us that Matt averages at least 4 saves a summer at that pool. I'm not surprised; he was so vigilant and even humored my daughter with a photo. The location is key - on the beach and a quick walk into town. The grounds are beautifully maintained by a caring and helpful staff. There is even an onsite, coin-operated laundry facility that we used twice during our stay. If you have small children, you may want to make sure that the stairs in your rental are carpeted as not all of them are. Also keep in mind that a child gate may not be an option to completely block all of the stairs, although we were able to use a pressure gate a few steps up. Overall, we highly recommend the Surf Club and we will be sure to return again year after year.

We stayed at the Surf Club for the first time in July, 2011. We are a family of four (2 adults, 2 children). We stay in Montauk every year and usually at a different resort. We decided to try the Surf Club this year. We were lucky enough to book a room 6 weeks before our stay. It was a one bedroom ocean front room. The kitchen and downstairs living room are extremely small. We brought food to eat dinners in each night to save some money. Luckily for us family was out the same week and had a rented condo so we brought our food to them and all ate together. There would have been no way to entertain anyone in our quarters. The bathroom was nice and updated. The queen bed in the upstairs bedroom was comfortable. It was nice to have a sink in the bedroom upstairs since there is just one bathroom. The staff was very professional and friendly. The room was immaculate. The deck was a nice size with a chaise lounge and a table/umbrella with 4/5 chairs I believe. It is located in a great spot in Montauk and the walk to the beach down their boardwalk was easy and stress-free. You can park your car in the lot and never have to move it during your stay if you don't want to! Grounds were nicely kept. We will definitely book here again next year but try a 2 bedroom for a little more space. Bill the general manager was very friendly and all staff extremely helpful. Thank you for a wonderful stay!!

Spent a week with kids and grandkids at this wonderful place right on the beach. Walk to a dozen decent restaurants. Very well-managed, rooms have great architecture combining convenience and privacy, the staff are friendly and well-trained (they seem to enjoy their work - a rarity these days!). Manager Bill Keskey is a jolly bear of a guy, helpful and kind. Can't recommend it too highly!

The bottom line...

Location A+

Units C to B

Depending on whether or not unit owner has renovated (BTW this is unfortunately typical for Montauk)

Management F

When questioned as to why the "ortho man" would be spraying poolside midday while kids were swimming the manager resorted to: 1. lies ("the spray is organic" - this lie was debunked by the sprayer himself who told me that the the spray was "not organic.. those things don't kill the bugs:) 2. denial ("I don't see any problem with it and nobody else here does") and 3. threats ("this is how we keep the grounds in good shap... if you don't like it and if you will be asked to leave")

Unfortunately, Surf Club management thinks it appropriate to spray and blow leaves and cut the lawn... and the hedges midday and in close proximity to guests.

Montauk is a beautiful vacation spot that is unfortunately riddled with compromises... overpriced motels... dingy b&bs... so no option I know of is perfect - but if child safely is important to you - you can definitely do better than this place!