MONTAUK
POINT STATE PARK For avid enthusiasts only 132 miles East of Manhattan on Route 27 Sunrise Highway, at the very tip of Long Island, it takes some effort to get to the Montauk Point State Park. There is little to keep children and casual visitors occupied in this Business Class of the world of Parks. Many may feel that they are less than welcome. The Montauk Point State Park has features of exceptional quality. It is one of the top wild reserves of the State, but calls for some skill and experience for its attractions to be appreciated and enjoyed in full measure. For starters, there is some unusual mix of habitats. The Montauk Point State Park has stretches thick with trees, which is not uncommon for Long Island. However it also has a fascinating population of mosses and lichens that hold many secrets yet to be uncovered in full. The sporting merely ski over these strange carpets or roam across it in search of game to hunt, but serious naturalists may spend lifetimes studying the primordial species that one normally associates with higher latitudes and altitudes as well. The Montauk Point State Park also has trails suitable for horse riding. Then there is the surf fishing. It is exceptional in richness and experienced sportspeople salivate at the thought of casting their rods in this powerful spray that incessantly rises before crashing at the feet of the sand. The Montauk Point State Park is ranked among top sites for surf fishing anywhere. The ancient but sturdy Montauk Lighthouse stands eternal watch over the beach and the ocean, though today's mariners have little or no use for it anymore. Much history resides in its proud tower and rocky surroundings below. Seals are another attraction of Montauk Point State Park, though one must watch them from a distance, never causing them any harm or even fright. Their presence gives some meaning to the Tundra-like vegetation on parts on-shore, and confirms that we must be in a very northern part of Long Island that is not unlike how it was when Indians first chanced on its waters and shores. The majestic seals rise above the water and enjoy the sun on isolated outcrops and rocky bluffs that peep through when the tides are low. Their numbers are a sound pointer to the rich pickings below the water, which in the area offshore from the Park, is buffeted by tidal currents from more than one direction. This cyclical ebb and flow of water causes ripples that can be seen from the beach. The Park authorities have added some humane touches of civilization such as picnic tables, a place to eat and even some play equipment. However they appear incongruous to serious nature lovers and sports people, for the Montauk Point State Park should not have to stoop to the level of canvassing populist support. It may be in the best long interests of all stake holders if this wilderness stays out of the public eye for as long as possible. Human visitors, if they start to visit the Montauk Point State Park in large numbers and frequently, may need restraints similar to the ones the rules now prescribe for canines! In 1900 Montauk received it's brown band midway up the white tower, and in 1903 the first-order lens was replaced with a 3.5 order bivalve "clamshell" lens. During World War II the Coast Guard Artillery Firetower was added to the site as part of the East Coast Defense Shield. In 1987 the bivalve lens was replaced with a revolving airport beacon. Severe erosion threatened Montauk Point during the 1960's, but a woman named Giorgina Reid devoted 15 years of her life to an innovative terracing project that stabelized the bluffs and saved the light. More recently a stone wrapper has added further protection plus a great place to fish or meditate in the shadow of the lighthouse. Montauk Point Lighthouse is a wonderful place to visit. On a clear day you can see Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Block Island. During 1996 Montauk is decked out in its bicentennial year finery. The tower and grounds are now maintained by the Montauk Historical Society, and are open for tours 10 - 5:30. There is a gift shop and a museum with some great exhibits. (631) 668-2544 www.montauklighthouse.com Directions: Route 27 east into Montauk Point State Parkway past Montauk villiage. Entrance $4 per car May 25-Sept. 2, weekends/holidays Sept. 7-Oct. 14. On 724 acres at the eastern end of the Island, Montauk Point offers bracing breezes and sterling vistas in the shadow of Montauk's lighthouse. Season: Year-round, sunrise-sunset. Facilities: Surf casting (no license), hiking trails (5 miles), picnic area, refreshment stand, gift shop (year-round, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.). Events: Montauk Surf Classic Sept. 22-24. Information: (631) 668-3781.
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