As an anticipation of a trans-Atlantic shipping point at Fort Pond Bay, the Montauk Branch of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) was extended in 1895. LIRR brought many eastern towns in Long Island to develop and become more accessible and, of course, the line had a great role in community shaping along the South Shore.
Today Montauk Branch continues even now as an important transportation corridor, with daily commuters as well as seasonal travelers. The line is electrified only up to Babylon, and diesels haul trains onward to Montauk. Notably, the summer-only “Cannonball” express train from Penn Station to Montauk moves pretty fast, carries a lot of onboard amenities, and is quite popular. The infrastructure’s great scenery and access to the Hamptons make it especially of service during peak vacation months.
LIRR Montauk Line
The Montauk Branch is the longest route on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), extending approximately 115 miles from Long Island City to Montauk. Historically, its western section—once part of the “Lower Montauk” corridor—played a vital role in New York’s rail network. However, declining ridership led to the closure of several Queens stations in 1998, particularly due to the need for high-level platform upgrades compatible with modern trains.
The line is electrified only up to Babylon, a status that dates back to 1925. East of Babylon, service continues via diesel or dual-mode locomotives, reaching key destinations such as Patchogue, Speonk, and Montauk. Despite its mixed-service nature, the Montauk Line remains a critical artery for South Shore communities.
Recent upgrades include a track tie replacement project between Patchogue and Montauk, aimed at enhancing operational reliability. Additionally, the South Fork Commuter Connection (SFCC)—a coordinated train and shuttle bus service between Speonk and Montauk—was launched to better serve commuters.
Montauk LIRR Train Station
Montauk Station marks the easternmost terminus of the LIRR Montauk Branch, located at Edgemere Street and Fort Pond Road. It holds the distinction of being the easternmost rail station in both Long Island and New York State. The station is essential for travelers headed to the East End, especially during the summer season.
The station features a single high-level island platform accommodating up to six train cars, positioned between two primary tracks. Five additional tracks south of the platform are dedicated to train storage, enabling the station to support high-traffic periods, including the seasonal “Cannonball” express service from Penn Station.
Originally opened in 1869 by the Brooklyn and Montauk Railroad, the station has undergone several reconstructions. It was demolished in 1907, rebuilt in 1927, and relocated in 1942 by the U.S. Navy during World War II to assist with operations near Fort Pond Bay. The original depot building now serves as the Depot Art Gallery.
Amenities at Montauk Station include free bike racks, limited free parking, and a ticket vending machine offering one-way and round-trip fares. While there is no enclosed waiting room, the station provides ADA-compliant features such as ramps, tactile warning strips, and audiovisual announcements. The ticket office operates seasonally, open only on Sundays and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Montauk LIRR Schedule [Weekday and Weekend Schedule]
The Montauk LIRR schedule offers diesel train service east of Babylon to Montauk, with key stops like Patchogue and East Hampton. The summer-only Cannonball express provides fast, premium service from Penn Station to Montauk. Service is more frequent during summer weekends.
Note: Weekend service is optimized for leisure travel with added midday and afternoon departures from Montauk.
Montauk LIRR Parking
Parking at the Montauk station is convenient but limited, especially on weekends and during the summer season. Its central location makes it ideal for accessing local beaches and attractions, but high demand often fills available spots quickly. Some of the important things you need to keep in mind for Montauk LIRR Parking are:
- High Demand: Expect congestion between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
- Permit vs. Public: Some spots are permit-only; others are hourly or daily fee-based.
- Time Limits: Vary from 2 to 24 hours. Observe posted signs.
- Overnight Parking: Permitted in select areas. Check in advance.
- Seasonal Enforcement: Stricter in summer months.
- ADA Access: Handicap spaces available near the station entrance.
Parking Near Montauk LIRR Station
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Montauk LIRR Station Lot
Located off Edgemere Street and Montauk Highway. GPS: Montauk LIRR Station, Edgemere St, Montauk, NY 11954. Arrive early for best availability. -
Alternative Lots
Consider town-operated or private lots near downtown or the beach. Be mindful of time limits and customer-only restrictions.
Montauk LIRR Parking Fares
- LIRR Lot: $1–$3 per hour; daily maximum $10–$20. Annual permits (residents only) are not valid for tourists.
- Municipal Lots: $20–$40 max during peak season; often free in off-season.
- Private Lots: Premium pricing near high-traffic beach and shopping areas in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where does the LIRR Montauk Branch stop?
Key stations include Long Island City, Hunterspoint Avenue, Jamaica, Babylon, Patchogue, Speonk, Westhampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk.
2. Where can I find the Montauk Branch map?
Visit the MTA website for a detailed map of the Montauk Branch, showing station stops and connections.
3. How do I get from NYC to Montauk by train?
Depart from Penn Station or Grand Central; most trips require a transfer at Jamaica. Travel time averages 3–3.5 hours.
4. What is the fare to Montauk?
A peak one-way fare from NYC to Montauk can cost up to $31.75. Off-peak tickets are cheaper. Discounts apply for seniors, children, and monthly pass holders.
5. Where can I find the latest Montauk schedule?
Schedules are available on the MTA website or via the TrainTime app, which also provides real-time train status and alerts.
6. What’s the address for LIRR Penn Station?
Penn Station is located at 3 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10001, between 31st–34th Streets and 7th–8th Avenues.
7. Where do I buy LIRR tickets at the station?
Ticket vending machines are available at all LIRR stations, including Montauk. The machines accept cash, credit/debit cards, and some mobile payments.