Ditch Plains is Montauk's surf break and, by reputation, the Hamptons'. It is an exposed reef break with fairly consistent surf that can work at any time of year. The wind that cleans it up blows from the northwest, and the ideal swell comes from the south-southeast. Both left and right waves break over reef. It is often crowded, and the rocks are a hazard.
The beach behind it is a Town of East Hampton lifeguard beach, so surfing and swimming share it. See the Ditch Plains beach page for guards, food and trails, and the swell and season guide for timing.
The beach behind the break
- the break and the beach
Ditch Plains Beach
Guards 9am to 5pm, a food truck and the Rheinstein Park trails.
Conditions that work
| Factor | Best |
|---|---|
| Swell direction | South-southeast |
| Wind | Northwest offshore |
| Season | Winter, most often December |
| Break type | Reef, left and right |
| Hazards | Rocks; often crowded |
Sharing the beach
The Town staffs the beach with lifeguards from 9am to 5pm in season, and swimming is allowed only in the designated area. Surfers use the stretch outside it, as at every guarded beach. Summer lineups are crowded, so a small day with a crowd is a poor first session. In the cold months the lifeguards are gone and the lineup thins.
Practicalities
The Town lot at Ditch Plains is for East Hampton residents with a permit, so check Hamptons Beach Pass before you plan to drive. The Rheinstein Park trails start from the lot and from Miller Avenue, which gives you a way to watch the break on foot.
Questions
What swell does Ditch Plains need?
A south-southeast swell, with offshore wind from the northwest.
Is Ditch Plains good for beginners?
It is often crowded and the rocks are a hazard, so many beginners prefer a sand-bottom break and a lesson.