The Panoramic View Resort (631/668-3000) is next to Gurney's Inn on the Old Highway in Montauk, Long Island.  It's beachfront, on a beautiful and undeveloped part of the coast, with a heated pool and a nice casual atmosphere. 

All rooms have small balconies or a patio, with their own barbecue and panoramic sea view.  Rooms are very spacious because they are like older apartment units, with a kitchenette and comfy furniture.  You never mind if sand gets on everything.  Room 2A with its picture windows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is a favorite.  We had stayed there before, but when it wasn't available in June, 2002, we chose a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit and paid $130/N for it for a four-night stay. 

Our son loved being able to run back and forth to the beach all day, and have breakfast and lunch barefoot around our unit. One afternoon we went to play miniature golf nearby.  I understand there are a few private beach homes for rent also, but we've only stayed in the long, motel-style building. We drove over to see The Montauk Yacht Club, another small resort that was recommended, but it's located on a marina facing some yachts, really beautiful ones.  We preferred to be right on the beach.

At night, there are lots of small seafood restaurants and some fancy ones in the main part of Montauk, which has grown into a big village a few miles further east. By the way, parents will be pleased to hear that the spa treatments at Gurney's Inn, now a famous health and beauty spa, are offered at a discount to guests at the Panoramic.
 

[Editors Note: As of 2006, this once well-kept secret has become so popular that new rules have been imposed. Most importanly, the hotel no longer accepts children under 10-years-old. In 2006, rates are divided into the Spring/Fall Seasons (April 13 - June 23 and Sept. 6-Nov. 13) when they range from $104/N to $342/N for a beach house, and Summer (June 23- Sept. 5) when they range from $198/N to $638/N. A two-night minimum is required most weekends and a three- or four-night minimum in summer. Room rates are for two persons; beach houses sleep four, otherwise extra guests cost $15/N each in spring/fall and $25/N in summer.]

First published by FTF in 2002.