My Neighborhood: Montauk, A Surfer’s Paradise

Corey Senese   is living the dream. A lifelong surfer, he’s turned his passion into a profession as head of CoreysWave surfing school in Montauk. The vacation hamlet near the tip of Long Island’s South Fork lies about 10 miles east of the Hamptons—close, yet a world away in vibe, scenery, and setting. Montauk’s beautiful white-sand beaches and great year-round surfing conditions provide more than just employment for Senese, whose clientele includes actors musicians, chefs, and designers. The town has become a beloved home for the southern California native, who has spent summers here since he was a kid.“On the first warm days of spring, the birds wake me up, everything starts blooming, and there’s that special smell of old wooden houses in the salt air. It all brings me back to my childhood,” he says.“I love the small fishing-town vibe, the warm water in summer, the natural beauty, and, of course, the surf.” —By Greg Dutter Shop Talk “Montauk has killer surf shops. One of my favorites is Green Lines .   For handmade and fair-trade goods, The 8th Drifter store is cool.   For delicious, locally grown produce, I head to Balsam Farms Market and Montauk Farmers Market.” (742 Montauk Hwy., 631.668.2428) In the Frame “For local art shows, I go to The Montauk Beach House , a boutique hotel near the beach, and Boo-Hooray gallery .” Sound Bites “I like Herb’s Market for breakfast, lunch, and takeout. Naturally Good Foods & Cafe makes delicious, healthy meals. I also like the Gig Shack , Clam and Chowder House at Salivar’s Dock , and Westlake Fish House .” Outdoor Types “Montauk’s coastline and wild natural beauty are spectacular. When I’m not surfing, I fish, golf, go bike riding or hike the majestic cliff trail at Shadmoor State Park or around the lighthouse at Montauk Point State Park . In the evening, you can have a beach bonfire, barbecue, then bring out the guitars and toast ‘smores. “Surfing is incredibly fun, no matter what level you’re at. Seeing my students surf a wave is better than catching the wave myself.” coresywave.com Find your next home out in Montauk today.