Why book?
At the eastern end of Montauk, neutral-hued Marram is the definition of barefoot luxury—quite literally, as most guests at this low slung beachfront hotel are either shoeless or in designer sandals as they bounce between pool deck yoga classes, surf lessons, and evening bonfires on the sand.
Set the scene
The hotel’s name comes from the beach grass that surrounds it—perhaps your first clue as to how this summertime escape sits harmoniously among its Long Island coast setting. The 96-room property is done entirely in warm woods and off-white concrete, courtesy of Brooklyn’s The Post Company, with touches of natural materials (rattan lampshades, jute rugs, woven leather benches) throughout the indoor/outdoor design. It’s this refined gone-to-the-beach vibe that draws young families and couples out from the city all summer long.
The experience itself is what you make it: Some guests keep it simple by spending their days at the pool and beach (where luxe lounge chairs and umbrellas are set right on the sand), occasionally using the free beach cruisers to pedal around town. Others kick things up by arranging private beach bonfires in the evening, catamaran outings by day, surf lessons with Engstrom Surf, and even customized tarot card readings. The vibe is decidedly casual, refreshing for a beach town that has been increasingly buzzy as of late—Marram harkens to a time when surfers and artists outnumbered the beach party crowds.
The backstory
Marram opened in 2019, after taking over the Atlantic Terrace motel. Anyone familiar with the previous property will notice that Marram is a world away from what once stood in its place—yet it boasts the same desirable beachfront location.
When Marram opened for the 2022 season (the hotel closes in the winter), it did so with a few upgrades: two new 650-square-foot suites, a redesigned open-air lounge, and a sweep of bookable wellness experiences that are as new-age as it gets (think energy healing sessions, salt cave therapy, etc).
The rooms
The earthy, minimalist decor is a far-cry from the expected nautical theme that esconces most of Montauk and the Hamptons—it’s a much-appreciated change of pace. About half the rooms have ocean views, and it’s worth securing one: waking up to the crashing waves is a highlight of staying here. While it’s no hot tip, a scroll through Marram’s booking calendar on their site will show that room rates vary greatly (greatly!) once you get to the shoulder season of September, or on off days like Sunday. If you’re local, try to be flexible with your travel window and it’ll be well worth the savings (out here, you’ll end up blowing that money on lobster rolls and spritzes in no time).
Food and drink
Mostrador, Marram’s singular food concept, is an elevated counter service spot with Uruguayan flair (no wonder, as it is helmed by an Uruguayan team that knows a thing or two about fantastic beach food). In the morning, as guests in Celine sunglasses line up for iced lattes, the display case glistens with fresh chocolate croissants, and fruit and grain bowls are whipped up to order. The menu evolves to flatbreads and the like mid-day, before the daily dinner menu appears on the blackboard around 5p.m. with a bounty of fish crudos, grilled meat, and empanadas that have a habit of selling out. It’s all fairly light fare, on compostable takeaway plates that guests tote to tables with ocean views. The kicker, as it tends to be in Montauk, is that you’re paying a very pretty penny for a “casual” experience—a single empanada will run you $18; a cinnamon bun, $10; a short rib entree, nearly $40. Montauk canned beers at the bar go for $10.
The neighborhood/area
Just a couple blocks off the eastern end of Montauk’s main drag, Marram is walking distance from charming local eateries (like Joni’s, for breakfast), surfboard rentals over at Sunset Surf Shack, and fresh brews at Montauk Brewing Company. Thankfully, though, the beach here doesn’t get too crowded.
The service
We barely interacted with staffers (well, except for the Mostrador staff) after arrival—we had no real need to—but everyone who helped us check in was a delight.
For families
While the guests are mainly adults, some young families tote along their kids. Complimentary arts and craft sessions seemed to be a hit with that group, as were the free s’mores offered around the communal fire pits each evening. I’d be wary of traveling here with very young children, though, as the vibe is quite chill—it seems like it’d be quite stressful to juggle a crying baby in this space.
Eco effort
I’m a sucker for Le Labo toiletries and couldn’t resist using those in my room, but the idea of small single-use toiletry bottles feels a bit outdated these days—especially at a beach hotel (I thought everyone agreed on moving to larger in-shower dispensers…). I did appreciate that the water waiting in the minifridge was boxed, not in plastic bottles.
Accessibility
Inquire about any mobility needs when booking; there are a number of ADA-accessible rooms.
Anything left to mention?
Make sure to grab the woven surf hat hanging in your room—they’re complimentary.
21 Oceanview Terrace, Montauk, NY 11954
https://postcompany.co/
(631) 668-2050