Surfing Ditch Plains is one of the classic Montauk experiences. Set on the easternmost edge of the Hamptons, in the area often called “the End,” Ditch Plains Beach is a popular and reliable East Coast surf spot known for its mellow waves, scenic coastline, and welcoming surf scene.
Everything You Need to Know About Surfing Ditch Plains
Type of Wave: Reef break.
Bottom: Rocky reef.
Direction: Both lefts and rights, with A-frame waves.
Best Swell Direction: South swells, including southwest to southeast.
Best Tides: Mid tide and high tide.
Best Season: Summer and fall.
Ability Level: Beginner-friendly and fun for all levels.
Bring Your: Longboard, funboard, or hybrid. Shortboarding can work when the swell picks up.
Crowd Factor: Very crowded during the summer season.
Vibe: Friendly and relaxed, as long as everyone respects surf etiquette. Locals always have priority.
Parking: Permit only. Parking permits can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce in the center of town.
Amenities: Restrooms and concession stands are available along the beach.
Surfboard Rentals: There are plenty of rental options in town, so you do not need to bring your own board.
Ditch Plains is a two-mile stretch of sandy beach and one of the more consistent surf breaks on Long Island. For anyone planning a Montauk surf trip, it is the kind of spot that is easy to love: approachable, scenic, and dependable compared with many other waves in the area.
During the five days I spent surfing around Montauk, Ditch Plains was the only wave that broke every single day. The surf reminded me of the long, crumbly, mellow, longboard-friendly waves found in Southern California. It was not an intimidating wave, but it still offered plenty of room to glide, trim, turn, and enjoy the water.
The setting is a major part of the experience. Ditch Plains is lined with dunes and dramatic coastal cliffs, giving the beach a rugged and beautiful feel. I was lucky enough to stay just down the street, close enough to walk to the surf, check the conditions, and head back for a break between sessions. For a surfer, that kind of access is hard to beat.
Although Ditch Plains is suitable for beginners, it is still important to pay attention to the rocky reef bottom, the lineup, and the crowd. Summer can be especially packed, so patience and good surf manners matter. Wait your turn, do not drop in, communicate clearly, and give space to surfers who know the break well. A friendly attitude goes a long way here.
Here I am about to go shred:
And there I am shredding:
Scenes from Ditch Plains:
Ditch Plains is especially enjoyable on a longboard or funboard when the waves are soft and peeling. The shape can be forgiving, which makes it a great place to build confidence, practice positioning, and enjoy longer rides. When the swell has more energy, the wave becomes more exciting and can offer opportunities for faster turns and a more dynamic session.
Because this is one of the best-known surf spots in Montauk, timing can make a big difference. Early sessions, changing tides, and quieter windows can help you find more space in the lineup. Even when the beach is busy, the atmosphere can still feel warm and stoked, especially when everyone shares waves respectfully.
Magical sunsets:
The sunsets at Ditch Plains are unforgettable. After a surf session, watching the light drop over the dunes and seeing surfers linger in the water makes the whole place feel calm, wild, and magical. It is one of those beaches where the post-surf glow lasts long after you have rinsed off and packed up your board.
My home street in Ditch Plains, just a short walk to the surf:
The time I tried to find some surf near the lighthouse:
The time I tried to find surf at Kirk Beach:
Exploring other nearby beaches can be fun, but on this trip Ditch Plains was the standout. It was the most consistent wave I found, and it delivered exactly what I hoped for from surfing in Montauk: beautiful scenery, approachable waves, and plenty of ocean time.
My post-surf session stoke is real:
If you are planning a surf trip to Montauk, Ditch Plains deserves a place at the top of your list. Bring the right board, check the tide, respect the lineup, and be prepared for crowds in peak season. Most of all, enjoy the beauty of this classic East Coast surf spot.
Hope to see you in the water sometime, and let’s make waves in the kitchen.