Daunt's Albatross Motel
"Why book? If you want the old-school Montauk with modern updates and high-design touches, this is the place for you. Daunt’s is the antidote to the ultra-scene-y vibe that has swept up this once-humble fishing village and seaside retreat over the last two decades: a comfortable, unpretentious family-run operation where everyone is welcome—with a bit of style to boot. Set the scene Daunt’s is right in the heart of things, but both the pool area and the main 23-room motel feel like a little oasis, set apart from the hubbub of town and with none of the see-and-be-seen energy of places like the Surf Lodge. There are lots of families and groups of stylish but understated singles from New York City and beyond looking for something more low-key than a lot of lodging options provide. The backstory The hotel has been in the Daunt family since the grandfather of Leo Daunt, its current GM, purchased it back in 1977. In 2020, Leo, who grew up around the property, embarked on the hotel’s first major renovation since his family acquired it with the express intent of preserving the humble mom-and-pop authenticity that had always defined it, while bringing it more in line with the expectations of today’s hotel guests. The result is comfortable rooms with great beds and rustic design details, and a flagstone-lined courtyard strung with Christmas lights where guests can sit on Adirondack chairs around metal fire pits in the evening, listening to a stellar playlist and nursing one of the region’s many fine craft beer options. Koda, Leo’s beautiful golden retriever, is sure to be around somewhere. The rooms For the redesign, Leo enlisted New York-based interior design firm Home Studios, best known for the thoughtful, understated elegance of Brooklyn and Manhattan restaurants like Sisters, Fausto, and Vini e Fritti, which has increasingly ventured into residential and hotel work. The rooms offer a comfortable, no-frills kind of luxury, with custom-made alderwood beds and other furniture, vintage tubs and knickknacks, and local art finds. Many have kitchenettes and the ones on the second floor have balconies for sitting. The largest, the Koda Suite (named for Leo’s dog), which was once occupied by the Daunt family, is a terrific family option, with two rooms, two bathrooms, tons of space, and its own private pool entrance. Food and drink Midway through the renovation, Bird on the Roof, a family-run restaurant across the street, became an essential part of the Daunt’s Experience. Its brunch is out of this world, and there’s something on the menu for everyone, from buttermilk pancakes and elevated egg sandwiches to the surprising shakshuka and a perfectly executed warm grain bowl. It feels like a neighborhood place, in a way that can’t be faked, from the singer-songwriters who perform on the weekends to a plaque honoring Harvey Topilow, a late local eye doctor who used to frequent the restaurant. A small shop in front sells artisanal goods, beach essentials, and other sundries. Sit out on the patio in the morning drinking coffee with the sun on your back for a great way to start the day. The hotel also has a brick pizza oven and outdoor grills for feasts around the pool. The neighborhood/area Daunt’s sits in the middle of Montauk’s classic motel zone, with the Plaza and restaurants and shops along Highway 27 a few steps in one direction and Kirby Park Beach in the other. For surfers, Ditch Plains isn’t much further—and it’s about a 10-minute drive to the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Popular dining spots like Ruschmeyer’s and Duryea’s Montauk are also nearby. Everything that makes Montauk what it is today is at your fingertips. The service At both the hotel and the restaurant, the service is relaxed and personable. This is a family run-place, and it translates to a staff that treats you like family. For families The overall atmosphere at Daunt lends itself to family visits, but be sure to choose a room based on your needs as not all of them will be appropriate. The adjacent pool area is a dream for young kids—and any parent wanting a few minutes of worry-free relaxation on one of the deck chairs. Accessibility Daunt’s Albatross is wheelchair-accessible and allows service animals at no charge. Parking and check-in have been made fully accessible, and staff is trained to offer assistance to ensure accessibility. There is one fully ADA-compliant King room on the premises. Anything left to mention? Daunt’s pool area is entirely pleasant right now, but Leo and Home have big plans for it, including the addition of a yoga area and a massage tent. The hotel has quiet hours after 10:00 p.m., but the classic two-story motel configuration around a central courtyard which means you can sometimes hear your neighbors—something noise-sensitive guests should be aware of when booking." - Jesse Ashlock
