The Blue Gull Beach House

Gin Beach Pics

2010-06-22T04:19:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Things have been busy, and so I have been offline, but I wanted to share a couple of pictures that I took of Gin Beach in Montauk. We have had some fabulous weather this summer, and I am looking forward to going swimming this Friday (hoping for 80 degree weather!). Yesterday was officially the first day of summer, so here's to blue skies, sandy beaches and salty water!

Beach House Architecture

2010-06-08T03:14:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I really enjoy about Montauk are the multitude of different styles of beach homes. From large to small, traditional to modern, bohemian to conservative, the beach shacks that dot the expansive shores of Montauk have something to offer everyone. To the left is a quick snapshot of a house that really caught my eye-- an Asian-inspired beach home with a gorgeous view from Culloden Point, not far from the Blue Gull Beach House. I think one of the things that is so wonderful about it is that it is so unexpected. When you drive down this particular street, even though the homes have a variety of looks from Hampton's "shingle style" to more Dutch-inspired architecture, this one, right on the bluff, causes your eye to gravitate right towards it. I love it!

My Beach Bucket Lamp

2010-06-06T07:16:00.001-07:00

Weeks ago, I had mentioned wanting to put a lamp in the second bedroom that was inexpensive, yet beachy and different from some of the ones I have seen. A fairly tall order. Well, I was able to put together the lamp to the right for $15-- it was extremely easy to do and I am pretty happy with how it turned out.

I took a beach bucket (or pail...whatever floats your boat), a plain lamp that was on sale at the hardware store for about $10, and a variety of different beach rocks, sand dollars, and beach glass. How easy was it? I just stuck the lamp in said bucket, filled with cool rocks and things (mostly found on the beach itself, and looped the cord back behind the bucket's handle. Totally simple.

You can see in the picture to the left, it adds a little something to the second bedroom's lobster theme...the real Rock Lobster! Ha! I suppose if you prefer you could use a lamp kit (you can get them at the store for around the same price as the on-sale and put-together model that I selected) and make it more permanent by adding plaster inside the base. I chose not to do that though....I like to move stuff around, and who knows what this little bucket has in store for the future!

The Verdict is Finally In-- Navy Beach Delivers

2010-06-05T05:48:00.000-07:00

Following the e-mails I have received asking if I had a chance to check out Navy Beach, I will leave you in suspense no more-- Navy Beach delivers on everything it promises. The service was fantastic, and everyone was friendly-- they make you happy to be there, and you will leave trying to calculate exactly when you will return (if you can bring yourself to leave!). The food was wonderful-- thoughtful and successful taste combinations provided unexpected twists on traditional flavors. I had the salmon nicoise, a welcome departure from the typical tuna preparation that we are all used to.

As you can see in the picture above, the atmosphere is everything you could hope for from a restaurant with it's own beach-- after lunch I was able to slip into an adirondack

chair overlooking the water and enjoy a cocktail (the Navy Grog was delicious) while drifting away. They have a great lineup of drinks, complete with one that changes daily to weekly-- the Madoff Cocktail.

Now, I timed my visit for a slot where Navy Beach was not crowded, so the vibe will depend on your timing-- typically in Montauk if you want a crowd, you go out on a weekend night, and if you are looking for something more laid back you go out during the week when fewer tourists are in town. Regardless of the speed you pick, Navy Beach will provide you with food, drinks, service and atmosphere to make your visit enjoyable.

Nautical Fix

2010-06-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

I've been slowly trying to add some nautically-styled stuff to the Blue Gull Beach House without going overboard and by trying to incorporate some functional pieces. I did however, fall in love with this little red sail boat pictured to the left (not functional but I had so much fun putting it together!)-- it seemed to bring just enough extra color into the livingroom's overall scheme. I found it in Our Gig Two "Whatever"-- a shop in Sag Harbor with a mix of nautical antiques and just a variety of stuff. I could not find a website, but they are located on Main Street and have cool home furnishings in a price range to satisfy everyone's budget.

I also found this nautically-themed flag with two pockets-- I've hung it on the side wall, and it seems as though it will come in handy for holding pens, paper-- maybe things I should not misplace or forget. The yellow and red are helping to brighten things up a bit (I steered clear of the pink pillows I was considering-- maybe I will introduce those colors in the bedroom at some point, but for now I've got colors that the Coast Guard would approve of!).

Day Trippin: Sag Harbor

2010-06-04T04:40:00.001-07:00

The rain held off for most of yesterday, and with bright skies today I am hoping to squeeze in another great run and a fabulous day at the beach. Yesterday I decided to take a road trip in search of some nautical pieces that would add a bit of interest to The Blue Gull Beach House without overwhelming it, and my travels lead me to Sag Harbor.

Sag Harbor is a quaint little area with a rich whaling history-- about a 40 minute drive from Montauk, but you want to go on an off-day when there is little traffic. There are many shops to spend time in, a few restaurants on the main drag, and plenty of yachts bobbing on the water for you to gawk at. There is also a beach nearby, but I did not check it out this time around.

I stopped and grabbed a quick bite at The Corner Bar, which has a good variety of sandwiches, salads and main dishes. I think I mostly enjoyed snapping a few shots of the harbor and sitting in the area around this windmill, which has benches and picnic tables scattered about in the sand. It's a great spot to relax and daydream. What nautical pieces did I finally find? Stay tuned...

In Search of Sun

2010-06-03T05:12:00.000-07:00

The weather was fantastic again yesterday, but fog rolled in and they say we will have showers and thunderstorms up through this evening. I snapped this shot of Ditch Plains beach yesterday-- the waves were gorgeous. Over on the sound side near Culloden I went swimming, and the water temperature has been slowly rising since this past weekend. There have only been a few swimmers to brave the chilly water, but it really is nice once you are in, honest!

Fishbar-- Best Montauk Restaurant?

2010-06-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

After this evening, I think not. I read the fabulous advertising and decided to give Fishbar a try-- I walked in, was seated by a seemingly friendly bartender, and so it began. I am actually pretty laid back when it comes to restaurants-- I understand things happen, you have off days, you have busy nights (tonight it was relatively empty) and it actually pains me to write a negative review on a spot in Montauk, but I am always forthright when it comes to my experiences.

I ordered an appetizer, the Thai mussels, and a blood orange margarita. The drink was very tasty-- not too sweet, and filled with interesting flavor. The mussels, while prepared in a very thoughtful and interesting manner, seemed a bit fishy--

perhaps not quite as fresh as they could have been. But then, there was the hair in my food. It was a big turn off for sure. Still, all the while I was trying so hard to like this restaurant-- the decor was simple, yet interesting, and the ads looked so cool-- especially when I saw the chef would be featured on Food Network...I wanted to love it.

I thought, this happens, a simple mistake, I will alert the waiter. The waiter looked at my unfinished dish, took it away, and said nothing. A simple "I am sorry" would have been a great response...a step up could have been a drink on

the house... but he seemed to not care, as if it happens often in the joint, and so I thought how terrible, surely the manager would care about the quality of the food. When I told the manager/bartender, he seemed to not care either-- it pained him to say sorry and he quickly went back to what he was doing. I was shocked, that given their highly-priced menu and seemingly good reputation, that no one cared about a sanitary matter.

I am not a snob-- I eat everywhere, from dives to some of the most fantastic restaurants you could imagine-- but customer service is king and it is something the Fishbar lacked this evening. After my experience, I will not go back, there are too many other great places, from the Dock, to Lenny's, Cyril's, Harvest, Navy Beach, Indian Wells, Star Island, The Lobster Roll and yes, my savior this evening-- Pizza Village, where I am always greeted with a smile and a fabulous pizza.

So, as for Food Network...well, I think the Fishbar's chef needs to spend a bit more time here at home training staff on customer service and keeping their hair nets on.

Two for Tauk

2010-06-02T11:25:00.001-07:00

Well, I have been slacking off at the Blue Gull Beach House (it is so hard to not play outside all day!) but I did manage to get the extra lounge chair and cushions set up, and as you can see to the left they are resort-quality (navy blue seems to be the color I reach for lately). I picked up two large ice buckets for the yard, and I am thinking that it could use a hammock in the shade...I'll think about it at the beach!

Flip or Flop?

2010-06-02T05:01:00.000-07:00

If you live in Montauk then you have heard of Kai Kai Sandals. On my search for cool small beach businesses, I decided to check out their Montauk location. I am happy to say, I actually bought a pair of their sandals for myself-- it's been four days in, and my feet are still loving them.

The store's owner used to be a lifeguard out here, and had an urgent need to develop a comfortable flip flop that could get him to the beach and about town. Some of the beaches out here are a little rocky, and as someone who grew up on Long Island I can tell you it can be hard for your feet to get used to. Many of us have our own disasterous flip flop story--from tales of blistered feet, to situations where the sandals just fell apart. If you love the beach, you need to keep your feet happy so you can keep going back-- all the more reason to give Kai Kai sandals a try.

I visited the Kai Kai store over by Gosman's Dock, and met the owner's sister Gabriell (she's in the picture to the left) who explained that you can also trade in certain Kai Kai sandals, and they will be refurbished and donated to the homeless, which I thought was pretty cool. In return you get 40% off of your next pair, which is a hard deal to beat, and can help you get new sandals for next season once your old ones wear out (which, I am having a hard time believing these things will ever wear out, but it's always nice to upgrade).

Now, I am not sure I'll dance to the beach (if any of you have seen me on a dance floor you know why!) but I will definitely run, hop, skip and jump in these sandals--in sum, they are worth flipping over.

More Beach House Garden Pics

2010-06-02T04:38:00.000-07:00

This week I have been able to watch the backyard at the Blue Gull Beach House transform into an amazing beach house garden. I thought the flowers that were budding back in April were fantastic, but it just keeps getting better!

Every day I am excited to peek outside and see what new flowers are blooming-- right now, there are tons of roses, and I am embarrassed to say a multitude of blooms that I do not even know the name for, but I love them all. There are even some herbs in the side garden, and one of my favorite trees-- a Japanese maple, growing in the side yard.

The previous owners, Bob and Marion, did a fabulous job in creating a little

oasis back there (as if just being at the beach is not an oasis in and of itself!). I realized when I bought the house that there was a huge responsibility in keeping the garden healthy, and so I have been doing my best to read up on gardening and hired professionals to lend a hand as well.

With the great weather we've had everything is in full bloom, I wish you all could smell it, it is far better than perfume!

Rock and Roll

2010-06-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Last year I had an amazing lobster roll at Lenny's on the Dock, and since I have been on the hunt for new versions in Montauk. After a failed attempt to make one myself with lobster salad bought at Gosman's Fish Market (I was really disappointed in the quality and all the shells in the salad--maybe just a bad batch?) I returned to Lenny's for lunch yesterday. It was just as I had remembered it-- sweet meat, seasoned just enough, with the Rolling Stones playing in the background and the bar humming with tropical drinks and ice cold beer. The seating right near the dock allows you to relax and watch the charter boats come and go. I am looking forward to trying something new this summer, but for now I can count on getting my rock and roll at Lenny's.

Last Night's Sunset

2010-06-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

I took some photos last night from a new little spot that I found for sunsets-- everyone always suggests the Montauket for watching a sunset, and while I agree, if it's your first time out to Montauk it is a good spot, it can get crowded very quickly. On a weekend night it's you and every other tourist!

Last night I took my camera and a glass of wine down to a more secluded spot on the lower beach that sprawls out across from Duryea's and got a few cool shots in-- in a more intimate setting.

The New Big Apple

2010-06-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

Well, after a long battle with many viruses, my old laptop was finally laid to rest and I did the unthinkable-- I made the switch from a PC to an Apple Mac. I bought a MacBook Pro and it has been amazing-- my download speeds are faster, my picture quality seems better-- I love it!

The weather has been great out here in Montauk-- they say we may have a shower later but the weather has held steady at 80-85 degrees and I actually went swimming this past weekend (yes, it was cold, but so good!). A fabulous Memorial Day was had by all, and I hope the great weather continues. More to come, from the new Beach Mac at the Blue Gull Beach House!

76 and Counting!

2010-05-24T03:40:00.000-07:00

The weather forecast for this week looks fabulous, with 70+ during the day! I thought I would share one of my favorite pics with you-- the water to the left at Ditch Plains looks so inviting it makes it impossible to concentrate with this as your desktop background!

Pillow Tauk

2010-05-24T03:04:00.000-07:00

Today, I am on the hunt for some pillows and a comfy chair to brighten up the far corner of the Blue Gull Beach House's livingroom. Once again, I struck gold (to the left) online at Anthropologie, so I will hit a few shops today before making my final decision. The room has lots of navy and lime green, so I need to go back to ROY-G-BIV to find a complementary hue! This pink is growing on me, though.

The weekend was productive-- I was able to scoop up a bunch of fun stuff for my July guests (party tub, extra towels, cushions for the chaise lounges, board games) and I am looking forward to finishing that beach bucket lamp I mentioned so many weeks ago (yes, she moves with warp-like speed in theory, but in practice??)...stay tuned!

The Montauk Oyster Pond

2010-05-23T06:22:00.000-07:00

Montauk has a number of cool trails that you can hike, and one that I recently discovered is the Oyster Pond Trail which leads to the Oyster Pond. To the left you can see some pics of the pond that I took from the overlook site. You can access the actual trail from the Seal Haul Trail, which takes you out to the beach on Block Island Sound. It is a very secluded area that gives you that "untouched by man" kind of a feeling, with no tourists, crystal clear waters and salty air.

The pond itself is an area with a rich variety of plant and animal life. When heavy rain hits it will sometimes cause the pond to connect directly with Block Island Sound, and this process typically brings in new sealife, nutrients, you name it, but can also cause schools of fish to become trapped-- as you can see being there definitely brings out a little of my inner geek!

Zagat Survey is In: Dave's and Harvest on Top

2010-05-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

The newest Zagat Survey on Hamptons restaurants is out for 2010/2011, and Dave's Grill and Harvest on Fort Pond came out with strong scores for the Montauk area. I have blogged about my love for Harvest before, but have not had a chance to drop in at Dave's (although many people have highly recommended it). Dave's looks as though it has a great seafood lineup, and so, I will be making a reservation for the first week of June so that I can try their "Famous Fish Stew"-- I am curious to see just how famous it is!

Memorial Day Countdown!

2010-05-22T13:09:00.001-07:00

Greetings! After an intense computer virus hit my laptop, I am finally back up and running!

The time away from the blog has enabled me to get ready for my Memorial Day Party. This year, I am hoping to make things interesting with this "drunken watermelon on tap" that I found on Evite. I thought this was so clever, the author scooped the watermelon out, made a punch with rum and the watermelon chunks, and attached a faucet from the hardware store to make a keg- like contraption. I thought it turned out kinda cool, not sure if I can pull this one off, though!

Navy Beach Opens This Week!

2010-05-11T04:19:00.000-07:00

The wait is finally over-- I heard that Navy Beach, the new restaurant on Navy Road, will open for business on Thursday. Their website is up and running, the place looks great and the food sounds fantastic, from lobster pot pies to buttermilk fried chicken. Check out the interior pic to the left from their website. Make your reservations now!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish you all a Happy Mother's Day! Whether you are at the beach, in the mountains, in the city or somewhere else in-between, I hope this day was a special one. We had a wonderful time visiting with Sondra and the gang-- I will leave you all with one of the Blue Gull Beach House garden pics. Stuff keeps growing everywhere, I love it!

One Fish Two Fish...

2010-05-06T03:58:00.000-07:00

If you love to fish, Montauk is the place to be. I recently saw an ad somewhere that described Montauk as a "quaint little drinking village with a fishing problem" and that's about as good of a description as any. A number of boats down at the harbor are ready for hire to take you and your group on daily tours to catch whatever is in season. I am hoping that maybe this summer or fall I can convince my family to go out with me, I think it would be cool!

Lenny's is a great spot to grab lunch, watch them all come back in, and check out the catch of the day. If you want to charter your own boat or dock your boat there are a number of marinas nearby, including the Gone Fishing Marina, Rick's Crabby Cowboy Marina, the Montauk Marine Basin, and Uihlien's Marina. The Montauk Yacht Club and Star Island Yacht Club are also available for dockage, and Star Island has a number of shark tournaments in the summer months. I am hoping to check out the upcoming one in June-- watch out JAWS, here I come!

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

2010-05-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Cinco De Mayo everyone! I hope you all have a margarita in hand and some fabulous Mexican food in front of you. To help celebrate, I thought I would post some pics from my last trip to Isla de Mujeres, a beautiful island off of the coast of Cancun.

What can I say-- Isla is quaint, fun, has a ton of cultural eye candy. Just a fabulous place to get away from it all. This picture above was taken at Maria's Kan Kin, one of my favorite spots for ceviche.

You can get to Isla via ferry from Cancun-- pack extremely light (your bathing suit, a cover up and an outfit for nightlife) and be sure to rent a golf cart when you arrive. First stop, Hacienda Mundaca, the house of a slave trader/pirate built in the 19th century (be prepared, there are iguanas *everywhere* and quite a little collection of monkeys on the premises). Second stop (especially fabulous at sunset) Punta Sur, the first spot for the sun to hit Mexican soil, and the site of a Mayan ruin built for the goddess Ixchel. This below picture was taken at Punta Sur.

For dinner, there are a number of fabulous options, and the downtown area comes to life with street performers. You can find authentic mexican, italian, ice cream, cafes, bars-- you name it. While a sleepy little fishing village, Isla has a magical way of making you feel close to nature and surrounded by privacy. This is one place where I will definitely be back!

Makin' Waves

2010-05-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

Beach hair has a way of looking extremely sexy-- sun-drenched tresses that are slightly windswept can help to heat up those summer months! The best way to get this look is to get yourself to the beach, but we all can't be beach bunnies 24/7 now can we? Last week I found the perfect solution to this little problem-- if you can't get to the beach, just bring the beach to you!

One way to get the look is with Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. I tried it the other day and it rocks. If you're a curly girl like me, you may want to straighten your hair before using it, but if you have straight hair just work it through your damp hair and start making some waves!

More Beach Pics

2010-05-03T18:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a while! The great outdoors have called my name and I have been behind in my blogging duties. Hope you all are enjoying some fabulous weather wherever you are, with gorgeous blue waters nearby.

I obviously can't wait for summer, as the temperatures rise I am excited about sunning, swimming, boating-- you name it! I shot these pics (as promised!) of some local paddleboarders-- yet another sport that I have not had a chance to try. But. Maybe!

The Dunes Near Culloden Point

2010-04-27T02:52:00.000-07:00

I took a number of pictures of the dunes leading up to the beach near my house recently. By summer's end I am hoping to pull together a cool portfolio of pictures just focused on the beaches in Montauk, so I am on the lookout for items and people of interest-- it was the fence that caught my eye this time!

Flip Flops By Day...Wedge Heels By Night

2010-04-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

I love that Montauk is so casual. I can go anywhere I need to go in my flip flops by day, and most places even welcome my flip flops by night. The cool thing is, if I have the urge to dress up, there are places where people can ooh and ahh over my Charles David wedge heels, which I absolutely adore. I bought them last season when my heel got caught in-between those little slats on the dock at the Montauk Yacht Club, and I, without a shred of grace or poise, fell on my arse. So I've learned, there's no heel like a wedge heel. They give me height, they evenly distribute my weight, and reduce my chances of an outright swan dive.

One place I would recommend if you feel like getting fancy in-season is East By Northeast (ENE). Interesting food, great drinks, well dressed folks, and another view of Fort Pond. One place I have not yet ventured into (the long lines and beautiful people had me shy away last year), is The Surf Lodge. I have never been but I've heard all sorts of interesting things about the place. Some locals seem to hate it; visitors seem to love it. Without having been brave enough to venture in myself, I cannot form any sort of opinion-- but I do think they have a cool website. If you've been...let me know how it is...or perhaps I'll finally check it our for myself...

Happy Earth Day!

2010-04-22T04:19:00.000-07:00

The weather in Montauk may not be the best for getting outside and enjoying the sun today, but have a wonderful Earth Day! If you live near a beach, check out Ocean Conservancy to find out how you can help preserve our beautiful beaches by taking part in the next International Coastal Cleanup. Start a Sea Change!

Village of East Hampton

2010-04-21T04:10:00.000-07:00

East Hampton is yet another fun area to stop off in on your way out to Montauk. The vibe is not as quaint as Amagansett-- it is harder to describe, with shopping like Manhattan on a small town main street with one hour parking...I won't lie, the parking is a pain. There is an area with two hour parking as well, but for some reason I always feel rushed when I am out and about there.

The shopping does not involve your normal medley of stores, but rather upscale boutiques such as Tory Burch, Ralph Lauren, Tiffany's-- you get the picture. The headquarters of the Hamptons International Film Festival are also located there, as well as a restaurant that I love: Rowdy Hall. They have an amazing vegetarian chili, good burgers-- something for everyone. East Hampton is also home to a restaurant/inn that I am dying to try-- the famed 1770 House. I first saw this spot when it aired on Barefoot Contessa (yes, I watch a lot of Food Network...I should probably watch less and actually cook more!) and I am waiting for the perfect occasion to drop in for a bite.

Dish it Out-- Coastal Style

2010-04-19T04:40:00.001-07:00

My plates from CB2 have arrived, and I am not opening the box until I complete all of the tasks on my "To Do List" (there are a total of 2o items, so this will be a busy week!). In looking for some fun dinnerware, I also came across these octopus plates from Anthropologie, featured in their From the Deep Collection. This collection houses an assortment of plates, from kissing fish, to boats and more, all ranging from $14-$24. Check out their Life at Sea tumblers as well, and their Sea Creature Tea Set for a funky tea party even Alice would love!

Bathroom Pics

2010-04-18T17:30:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share this picture of the main bathroom. As you can see, it has beadboard walls, tile floors, and there is also a fabulous skylight above the bathtub (you can see the light filtering through). The lighthouse rug was another housewarming gift-- I love the bright colors, so I picked out towels that match that same color scheme...and coordinate with each bedroom! This system also helps me keep things organized when guests are over-- if your designated color is blue, don't let me catch you with a yellow towel!

Greetings From Annapolis!

2010-04-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

To prep for the upcoming wedding that I will be shooting, I took a quick trip to Annapolis, MD. The weather was fair (it could have been 10 degrees warmer for me!), the seafood fabulous, and I was able to find some cool "shot spots." Mission Accomplished!

My first introduction with this fun, coastal town was via my friend who attended the United States Naval Academy (in the historic district). The area is also home to a number of interesting shops, great restaurants, and even The National Sailing Hall of Fame. If you love to sail, Annapolis is a great spot to get your fix. Re-Sails, a store that makes unique products from used sails, is also located near the City Dock, and has a number of great gifts for that special sailor in your life!

While there is no beach (sans sand), the beautiful harbor views and historic homes make up for it, as well as the myriad of art galleries. I did not visit any of the galleries this time, but I did have a fabulous lunch at McGarvey's Saloon and Oyster Bar-- their steamed seafood sampler hit the spot. See ya next time!

On the Way to the Beach I Saw a Duck

2010-04-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

The Great American Road Trip goes hand and hand with Beach Pop Culture. Years ago, people didn't surf the web for travelocity deals or plan every detail of their journey through trip advisor-- if your family was taking a vacation, you just got in the car and drove. I can still remember the steps: your parents packed the car, then they packed you in, and then you drove, testing how long you could make it before needing a pitstop!

These road trips allowed for something kinda special-- the element of surprise. Sometimes, along the way, you would pass a real roadside gem-- something so kitschy you begged your parents to stop. For me, the roadside attraction that always struck me was The Big Duck. Built in 1931 by Riverhead duck farmer Martin Maurer, this 20 foot tall, 30 foot long structure even features red tail lights from a Model T Ford for eyes (they kinda glow red at night!). Maurer used the structure as a store to sell his Peking Ducks to passing travelers.

The Big Duck's roadside location has shifted over the years, but to date it still stands in Flanders, and I smile every time I pass it on the drive out to Montauk. A few weeks ago, I indulged myself, and stopped (yes, I stopped), breakfast in hand, and sat at one of the nearby picnic tables to pay homage to this giant that watched over so many of my trips to the beach growing up. He may not be number one on trip advisor, but he's tops on the Blue Gull Beach House's list!

The First Annual Montauk Music Festival

2010-04-16T04:29:00.000-07:00

For those of you looking to enjoy the beach a little early this year (and maybe beat some of that summer traffic), Montauk has some cool upcoming events, including the first annual Montauk Music Festival sponsored by The Montauk Sun. From May 13-16 various bands will play throughout different venues in Montauk, their music covering a wide spectrum of sound (country, rock, jazz, blues). Looking forward to what I hope will be a great event!

More Livingroom Pics

2010-04-15T04:22:00.001-07:00

Thought I would share a few more pics from the livingroom-- the couch has been great, it's actually a pull out, and I love that all of the covers are machine washable. The white tables are also courtesy of IKEA-- I love the fact that the coffee table has a drawer that pushes through both ways with different compartments. Right now, I've got my blue starfish and some sand dollars in there, I'm still thinking about what beachy stuff I can house in that drawer!

The sofa table also has a glass top with open shelves...yes, more starfish! They seemed to bring the least amount clutter while giving things a bit of a coastal touch. I found them on quality shells, a discount shell store that enables you to purchase seashells from all different parts of the world. Montauk does have a number of great shells, but I thought it would be fun to bring in a few that wash up naturally on other shores.

Of course, with a glass top table you need to be careful-- I received one of the best housewarming gifts to help me with that-- these gorgeous blue coasters made out of geode rock. They are the perfect platform for any cocktail!

Amagansett: Another Unincorporated Hamlet

2010-04-14T04:26:00.000-07:00

In getting accquainted with Montauk and its surrounding areas I have had to learn a little bit about geography, erosion, and the differences between towns and villages and hamlets oh my. I think I've finally got my map straight! So here is how it works: Montauk, an unincorporated hamlet, is part of the town of East Hampton (as is the Village of East Hampton, a bit of Sag Harbor, and the other unincorporated hamlets: Wainscott, Springs and Amagansett).

Amagansett is Montauk's closest neighbor, and right now is a running favorite of mine. Its main street area is small on size, big on charm, and home to the nearby Indian Wells Beach. There are a number of antique shops, a hardware store (with the most adorable little new puppy you have ever seen...yes, I love dogs), an art supply store, camera store, and a few restuarants including one of my favorites, Indian Wells Tavern.

There is also a Marine Museum which overlooks the ocean and details Eastern Long Island's fishing and whaling history. I have not yet had an opportunity to check it out, but I hope to do so soon.

If you have a chance, if you are driving through to Montauk, stop off here, even if just to ooh and ahh and the amazing homes, some almost barn-like in their presence, many with breathtaking beach views. The drive through East Hampton can be really relaxing (note: there is summer traffic so you have got to plan ahead) and is free of any billboards, gas stations or other clutter. Just open village greens like the one to the left, and miles and miles of beach...

A Beach House for Your Fish!

2010-04-13T06:35:00.001-07:00

I saw this post on Live Modern and I had to share! This little beach condo was created by Teddy Luong, a student at Carleton University's School of Industrial Design. I believe Unica Home is taking advanced orders, so have Mr. Bubbles' real estate agent call his people to get things ready for this season! I love it, totally a fun twist on that plain fishbowl I had growing up! Check out the original article on PrarieMod.

Lighten Up !

2010-04-13T04:23:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite coastal accents at the Blue Gull Beach House is the lantern hanging in the foyer in the picture to the left (it's a small foyer, so maybe I should just call it the spot where you kick your flip flops off!).

Lanterns are a great way to add to your beach shack vibe, and Pottery Barn has a wide selection of them to choose from this season, in varying price ranges, shapes, sizes and colors. You don't really need to be using them as functional pieces, you can have them in the background on your shelving or use them to brighten up the great outdoors (PB is also featuring a special: free shipping on all lanterns). I'm liking this red one but the image is not posting (technical difficulties!)-- picturing a fun table setting for July 4th!

My Montauk Bucket List

2010-04-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

Every summer I make a list. Something a little like a bucket list, highlighting all of the things that I vow I will do before the northeast temperatures begin their steady decline. I will run more. I will sunbathe. I will get some highlights. I will look amazing in an overpriced bikini...worn at least twice before the season's end.

I have begun a list of things that I must accomplish before the end of Summer 2010, things that I must complete before the Blue Gull Beach House closes it's summer patio. Hold your breath...because I must surf. A few years back I obsessed over water skiing. I told myself, no matter what, I would get up on the first try, hair blowing in the summer breeze like a chic right out of a James Bond movie. I did get up, for what felt like an hour (ok, it lasted in reality a mere ten seconds...but it was some ten seconds!)

This year, I will try my hand at surfing (among other things!). Montauk has a few places where you can take lessons, and I'm game. I encourage you all to make your own "beach bucket lists" with me-- include things from your coastal town that you have always wanted to do, or things you want to do in someone else's coastal town. Get out there and try something new this summer (just be sure to include your own "don't try this at home warning" for the rest of us!).

Beach House Dish: Lovin' the Locals

2010-04-12T04:37:00.000-07:00

I heard some buzz on the dining scene for this week-- The Montauk Yacht Club Resort and Marina is offering a 10% discount for locals on food and beverage purchases at their Gulf Coast Kitchen, Hurricane Alley, and Barracuda Bar and Turtle Lounge for the entire season. South Fork residents can register for a savings card when they dine before Memorial Day, and the card can be used on spa and lodging purchases as well. The photo to the left was taken earlier this month: you can see the Yacht Club's famous lighthouse, and some of their rooms which feature cabana-like outer decks in the distance.

Fort Pond Area

2010-04-11T09:36:00.001-07:00

Montauk is surrounded by beautiful waterviews. It's a great place to get in the car, drive along the coast and just soak everything in. One of my favorite spots for taking pictures is at Fort Pond Bay, inbetween the Montauket and Duryea's Lobster Deck and Seafood Market. This strip is a prime sunset-watching spot.

As some of you know, I am getting ready to photograph a wedding this upcoming Labor Day in Annapolis Maryland, another great coastal town. You can view some engagement pictures that I took of the couple in Washington, D.C. here. They are really excited for their big day, and I am thrilled to be a small part of it!

This next group of pictures also features Fort Pond, and these were taken at one of my favorite spots for a group dinner, Harvest. They specialize in family-style dining, and my Aunt Patty claims that they have the best seafood she has ever tasted (note: she does eat a lot of seafood). Harvest has a seafood bruschetta on the menu that's pretty amazing-- picture a big overflowing tray of mussels, clams, shrimp and scallops with a delicious buttery sauce and yummy bread to soak everything up with.

I am still determining who reigns supreme in Montauk in terms of seafood (The Dock is also excellent and high on my list), but Harvest has great food, drinks and atmosphere. In the summer months you can feed the swans, ducks and coy right off of their little dock on Fort Pond; but unfortunately, during my last trip there the dock was underwater due to the flooding Montauk experienced following the last storm (see the above picture on the left where the water comes all the way up the dock's ramp).

Table Tauk

2010-04-11T05:43:00.000-07:00

While I was not able to finish my larger project: painting the bedroom furniture, I did manage to give this little side table a quick and easy update.

I needed a sidetable for the second bedroom, which was previously a kids room. I liked the idea of keeping this second bedroom more playful and fun-- I wanted it to continue to be a place where younger guests would love to stay. So, I brought in some blues and whites via those shark print sheets I was telling you about, and some lobster sheets, to keep the overall vibe sort of funky.

As you can see in the picture on the left, with the help of a little white paint, there is now a cute side table that matches the blues, whites and yellows that accent this bedroom. I found a pillow to keep with the ocean critter theme, and a metal bucket that I absolutely love (It was only $5). Originally, I had no idea what to do with this bucket, but I have decided to transform it into a table lamp for the room. With an old lamp kit (or older lamp), a new shade, and maybe some stones from the beach, I hope that the "lobster lamp" will be a cool addition to the room.

The Beach is My Backyard!

2010-04-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe how close to the beach the Blue Gull Beach House is-- I love it! I have never lived quite this close to the ocean before. It is appropriate that I live on Gull Road, because in the mornings, the seagulls often sit right on the roof of the house!

The picture to the left is of my private beach, literally a stone's throw away. If I forget my sunblock, or feel like heading back to the house for some lunch (or perhaps a margarita?) all I have to do is hit the pause button on my i-pod and I haven't put a dent in my tanning schedule! I am also extremely close to other beaches, including Ditch Plains, where I love taking pictures.

This next set of photos was taken in the late afternoon near the jetty in Ditch Plains. In the mornings, surfers and paddleboarders are always out. I love that Montauk's beach culture is so diverse-- you have fishermen, surfers, artists, and a growing number of restauranteurs and chefs. I don't know where I fit in, but I am happy just to be a chic in flip-flops, and I've really enjoyed meeting many of the local shop owners, beachgoers and bartenders along the way. Hope you enjoy the pics, now it's time to do some taxes. Too bad we couldn't just send all the IRS folks to the beach and forget about it!

Gone Local

2010-04-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

I had a great time in Amagansett, and came across a really cool store: GONE LOCAL. The owner, Susan Seitz-Kulick, makes 70% of the items in the store herself (that's a lot!).

I will admit, I heart small businesses, and naturally, I had a fabulous time poking about in Susan's store. She has a little bit of everything in there, for everyone's taste, and everyone's budget, which is pretty cool. Many of her items are creatively displayed in wicker baskets and vintage beach pails, which adds to the funky atmosphere.

I wound up leaving with some Hampton Basics Kiwi soap, that came in handy following a trip to the beach (I used it for washing shells!). Some people go to garage sales and estate sales when they seek undiscovered treasures: I hit the beach. You can find some interesting stuff, from shells, to driftwood, to you never know what. Nature's best fire sale, and the price is always recession-friendly.

My most recent trip uncovered a number of shells, some beach glass, and a few items just too large for me to drag home! Probably a good thing in the long run. I have no idea what I will use these shells for, but, I'm always thinking...and whatever I can't think of Susan will be sure to have in her fun store! Thanks again Susan!

We Have a Winner!

2010-04-09T08:50:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Lara (not sure if you go by Tina as in your post) on winning the first-ever Blue Gull Beach House Giveaway! Thanks to everyone for participating in our little contest, we look forward to hosting more as the summer months approach.

A special THANK YOU to black & light for being so generous and for making such fabulous candles for us all to enjoy. If you have not yet checked out their website, make sure you do-- they have amazing handmade candles that are perfect for setting a fun tablescape. Have a great weekend everyone!

Spring Flowers at the Beach

2010-04-09T04:24:00.000-07:00

The weather is finally warmer, and springtime has left my beach backyard with some really beautiful flowers! This is a big deal for me-- the girl who cannot walk and chew gum at the same time, who once killed a cactus (I swear it was an accident) now has an awesome garden.

Every morning, there is a little something new growing, and I can't wait until everything fills in. Once it does, that patio off the master bedroom is going to be a great spot to relax and enjoy spring.

Happily Ever After: The End

2010-04-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I put up some pictures of the new master bedroom and livingroom. Today I would like to share my second favorite room in the house (next to the outdoor space!): the kitchen. I cannot take any credit for the fabulous cabinetry, or the beautiful granite countertops (these were already in place, ready to welcome me). However, I did fill the cabinets with fun dinnerware, a party blender, and some other cool stuff!

The first meal shared at The Blue Gull Beach House featured burgers, thanks in part to the new Weber Grill. This grill is old school. It runs low on charcoal and high on flavor. With the help of the new blender, and the fish-shaped ice trays (how can you survive a week at the beach without ice shaped like little fish and starfish? Compliments of IKEA) we had a great meal and drinks that even top the ones served up by ENE.

I know I've been posting lots of interior pics, and I wanted to share the outside of this little Leisurama as well. It stands as a single floor, with room to grow, and my running sneakers on the doorstep (oh, I had some amazing runs, with clear blue skies above me, dunes and salty waves to my right, and a twisty road straight to Fort Pond Bay that made me feel as though I would run straight into the gorgeous pile of blue).

My time spent in Montauk has been well spent. All thanks to a poster that I spied over a year ago, that simply said: Life is Short, Spend Your Time Wisely. Words that inspired me to take more trips out to the End, trips that lead to breakfasts at Mr. John's Pancake House, and one breakfast that ended with a scribbly picture of a future beach house on a syrup-stained napkin. These are the events that began my journey toward living Happily Ever After...The End.

Holidays at the Beach

2010-04-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

Having grown up close to the beach in Rocky Point, NY, I know firsthand that you can give any holiday a seaside touch. It doesn't necessarily need to be literal-- for example, you can incorporate soft blues and whites into your normal holiday decor, or add a few natural elements like seashells, driftwood, or whatever you like (just have fun).

This past Sunday, in honor of Easter, I made a few table centerpieces that incorporated a modern twist on that green grass you might remember seeing as a kid-- I took a few simple bowls and added grass, jellybeans and a few starfish and sand dollars to keep things light and fun.

I also made "Easter Buckets" instead of baskets, with some great metal beach pails that I found at World Market. I alternated stuffing these with candy, swim tubes, water guns and other beachy stuff. This was an easy way to make personalized favors for guests of all ages and to get everyone excited for the upcoming summer months.

The Hamptons had a number of great events for young and old alike, and in Montauk Mr. John's Pancake House served up "Bunny Pancakes" all weekend (delicious). While we did not take part in any of the more formal egg hunts or bonnet parades, we did host an egg hunt on the beach. The weather held out long enough for us to charge the dunes in search of easily-spotted plastic eggs filled with money (hey, a bunny's gotta eat), seashells, and other assorted treasures!

I know, you're thinking "no way I would run like a fool on the dunes." Well, after you've had a few of the Blue Gull Beach House's special mimosas, you would be hopping along like the rest of us! Besides, ten minutes worth of fun can create a few memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you all for an awesome time-- it's good to be young, in spirit and at heart.

For those who could not make it out to the End (or the beginning, I don't know) I hope you enjoy the pictures, and if you have some fun shoreside pics or stories from this weekend please feel free to share!

Dining at Sunset

2010-04-07T20:58:00.001-07:00

Montauk sunsets are simply extraordinary. I remember viewing my first from the Montauket, and over the years I have caught glimpses of the sun slipping behind the horizon from various vantage points throughout town. In fact, I always try to time dinner so that it coincides with a fabulous sunset.

This past weekend at the Blue Gull Beach House, we were able to set the new outdoor table (for the first time!) beneath yet another beautiful sunset. I showcased my very first giveaway prize (one that I actually won) from Second Wind Sails for my guests-- a handmade wine bag crafted from original sailcloth. This was a giveaway that Completely Coastal had sponsored, back when I was still waiting to close on my little haven. The wine was from Duckwalk Vineyards, a fabulous spot in Southampton on the way in to the Blue Gull Beach House. Thanks again to Second Wind Sails for the lovely prize and thanks to my guests for the fabulous company!

Before and After

2010-04-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all family, friends (and new friends!) who came out to make this Easter extra special! I truly had a fabulous weekend, and I am not sure where to begin to share a few highlights, but I will try.

As promised, here are a few more before and after pictures of the Blue Gull Beach House. Since I recently posted a picture of what the master bedroom used to look like, I thought I would show you all where it is now-- it now looks a little something like this. The hardest part was the painting of the furniture, which as you can see did not get done this trip! I did make it all the way to Becker's Home Center, but as things came up, there were not enough hours in the day to paint. However, we did manage to get all new linens, pictures, and of course, my i-pod i luv radio which I am crazy about! It has a little attachment that you slip under your pillow to wake you (should you choose to keep to your schedule) and you can rise to whatever tunes you crave. I downloaded some beach music in various folders on my own i-pod, some music for waking, some for dinner, et cet.

This picture to the left is the old livingroom. The furniture had darker green tones, and I wanted to bring in furniture that really made you feel as though you were at the beach, on a boat, or somewhere else in paradise. I wanted it to be comfortable, and the couch that I picked is just perfect for kicking back on after a long day at the beach or about town.

In the picture below, you can see what the livingroom looks like now-- I brought in some navy blue couches with a variety of different pillows accenting different shades of blue. The tables are all glass topped, some with drawers to showcase more beachy stuff, and others with an island-shutter feel to them, in lime green. I also added some very natural accents, which I will show you in future posts. More to come!

Shelling Out

2010-04-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

One final post before the weekend!-- as I need to focus on getting some work done and entertaining guests at the Blue Gull Beach House, I will be offline for a few days, but I promise to return with more pics and tales of any new adventures (I hope there are some new adventures)! I saw these adorable seashell measuring spoons at Anthropologie. They have some cool sea-inspired stuff worth checking out, including plates, curtains(with an octopus print), butter dishes shaped like sea life, et. cet. All of this kitcheny- ware makes me think...what will I be serving?

Calling All Beach Bunnies!

2010-03-29T17:54:00.001-07:00

Are you ready for Easter?? If you are in the New York Area please join us for the First Annual Blue Gull Beach House Easter Egg Hunt! To celebrate spring, we will toast to beach bunnies everywhere with a backyard brunch and an old-fashioned egg hunt on the beach. We know many of you can't join us in person, so please join us in spirit by sending us your spring pics! We'll post ours as well. Wishing you all a fabulous weekend!

CB2...2CUTE!

2010-03-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

Could not pass up these little appetizer plates, they had me all smiles today at work! As you can see, Oliver is ready to party! These are available at CB2-- they have some great stuff for summer entertaining, including table linens, barware, and even outdoor furniture, all at affordable prices and in modern styles.

If you're looking to spruce up your surf shack, check out their galvanized planters (available in different sizes), their sol pendant lamp, and their igloo chairs which were also featured on coastal living's blog (Sarah Latta has a great post on their store). As you can see in the pic to the left, the clean geometric lines help to add interest to an otherwise boring patio.

The Original Beach House Bedroom

2010-03-29T04:12:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share a peek of the original master bedroom. The previous owners were a really lovely couple, and took great care of this little beach house. They had some amazing times at the house with friends and family, and we look forward to continuing where they have left off.

This is what the bedroom used to look like. They left behind some awesome vintage furniture from the 1960's that I am working with. The only thing that will probably look the same once I am done is the paint on the walls-- the cool green color is really relaxing! The one change that I will not likely get to finish is switching out the ceiling fan. I found one online that has a more modern feel to it, so I am going to eventually replace this one. The goal this weekend is to balance work on the house with some play in my new area. I am going to do my best to remember to bring my camera everywhere with me, and hopefully the ducks will be out again on Montauk Highway- Main Street! They are too cute! The picture below is the fan that will likely serve as the replacement once I get down to it on my to do list.

Coastal Furniture Find

2010-03-28T10:18:00.001-07:00

In my search for some funky and unusual furniture pieces, I came across these beds and headboards at Cottage Home Maine. They have a huge selection of tables, chairs, upholstery, wall decor and more! Their furniture is custom made, and it comes in a variety of paint colors to perfectly match your beach shack (they have custom paint available as well). Not sure if these will be making a splash at the Blue Gull Beach House, as this coming weekend I will be trying my hand at painting the house's original headboard in the master bedroom. But, if the project falls flat, I may be giving Cottage Home a call!

Cottage Home also features design services and can help develop a "color package" to compliment any design package you might have. Check out "The Ledges Showhouse" and the "Dover Bluff Showhouse" on their website.

These beds (to the left) are from their Carolina Collection and come in a variety of sizes. I can see them fitting perfectly as a fun accent piece in a room for younger beach guests (or in my room, who am I kidding!). They also come topped with flamingos, palm trees, pelicans, whales and other beachy things.

A Castle for the Rest of Us

2010-03-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

I have received requests for more pictures of the Blue Gull Beach House, and they are coming! I will post some before and after shots once the rest of the furniture arrives and I have a chance to tackle some of my projects. In the meantime, I would like to show you a BIG haven, in comparison to my little one. I give you: the Montauk Manor.

I would bet that many kids imagine that a king and queen reside in the Montauk Manor, a true "American Castle." I know I thought so, when I first strained to take in its commanding presence. Built by Carl Fisher in 1925, the Manor was the first piece of what Fisher envisioned would become the "Miami of the north." Fisher's Montauk would be "the most fabulous summer resort in the western hemisphere," with polo fields, a yacht club, a boardwalk, and other upscale amenities. Unfortunately, hard economic times prevented his vision from fully materializing, but the Manor still stands as living proof of his dream.

When this resort first opened, it hosted many diplomats, celebrities, and important people of the day. Today, it serves as a hotel, accessible to the general public, and resort condominiums can also be purchased within. The second picture to the left showcases the lobby, and you can see how the castle-like atmosphere exists within as well. You won't see any royalty roaming the halls if you visit--more likely tourists from Queens, or those who have returned to this historic place after many years away, to see for themselves how it has evolved, and to remember its grand years. The Montauk Manor is, in a way, a castle for the rest of us. And I hope that its breathtaking views and sprawling grounds will continue to host imaginary kings and queens for many more years to come.

Art on the Way!

2010-03-26T04:15:00.000-07:00

I wanted to remind you all to keep an eye out for the Montauk Fine Arts Festival this coming May 29-30th. Featuring artists from across the country, this two-day event will bring new ceramics, photography, digital art, paintings, jewelry, mixed media, metal works and sculpture to the Montauk Village Green. As a photographer myself, I am really excited to see what new artists and works will make it out to the End this year. The picture to the left is a photo that I recently took, I was debating hanging a framed version in the Blue Gull Beach House's kitchen.......but.......maybe I'll find a better option this May! (I'm pretty sure I will!).

Summer Dish 2010

2010-03-24T16:36:00.000-07:00

There is something extraordinary about spending mornings on the beach. The inviting colors of the sky, the soothing rythm of the receding tide, and the overall calm make the first hours of the day spent on sand very special for me. It signals the beginning-- a day that exists only in its planning stages. Montauk is a town filled with rich tradition, but much like beach mornings, exists in its planning stages to some extent. This adds a real element of excitement to the area, and affords the opportunity for the continued growth of a unique beach town.

So, what growth is in store for summer 2010? Well, in addition to Navy Beach, there are some other new restaurants slated to open. First, the owners of Bostwick's Seafood Grill and Cherrystone's Clam and Lobster Shack will merge these two East Hampton favorites to create "Bostwick's Chowder House." We can expect some great chowders and raw bar items from their new location on Montauk Highway. The menu will of course, feature their signature lobster roll (we need to figure out who serves it up best before the summer is over) and the new space will include a "casual atmosphere" with a "beach and seaside theme." Love it. Surfboards and a full bar...thank you, gods of summer.

Both of these new hot spots will face some tough competition from Serafina East Hampton, which will occupy the former Matto location. Also featuring a "beachy" and "casual atmosphere," Serafina will dish up "creative pastas and risottos," and the thin crust pizza that has earned them fame throughout Manhattan. Envision a pied piper-ish line of city slickers drooling on their way out to this new Hamptons location. Well...they'll have to get in line.

Light My Fire! (And Win Our First Giveaway)

2010-03-23T18:56:00.001-07:00

Join the Blue Gull Beach House's first GIVEAWAY! We have partnered with an amazing candle store called black & light to provide an opportunity for you to win a free candle (YES, I SAID FREE!). This family-owned business makes unique candles (designed by Holly Eve)-- they even design custom candles, like the ones that they created for the 2008 Obama Presidential Campaign and Mariott Resorts in Scottsdale, Arizona. Black & Light is dedicated to helping those in greater need, and they encourage us all to share the glow, which is why the Blue Gull Beach House is happy to shine a little light on them!

So this is how you can win (See Rules Below as Well):

1. Visit the black & light website, and browse their stuff! You will thank me.

2. Describe your favorite candle and tell us why you like it best.

3. Double your chance to win by mentioning the Blue Gull Beach House's site on your blog.

4. Triple your chance to win by booking with the Blue Gull Beach House for Summer 2010! For more information, please contact:

MaryAnn Peluso: 917-992-2251

Rules We Can All Agree With:

Please make that sure if your comment does not link back to a blog or a website that you provide an e-mail address so that we can contact you if you win. This contest is open to all and will end at Midnight on April 7, 2010. The winner will be announced on April 10, 2010.

Paper Chase

2010-03-23T04:31:00.000-07:00

I came across this great paper at Paper Source. They have various locations and some good online shopping for all different types of paper, notecards, and other stuff. Not sure exactly what I will be using it for, but I am envisioning invitations, place cards, and I may try to use this blue fish print (my favorite) to to add a twist to one of the lamp shades currently in the house. If you combine this paper with plain note cards and beachy decor (like starfish, seashells, et. cet) you can make some great handmade cards and things. I am including this next picture-- mind you I do not have a green thumb, or whatever color thumb you need to master this kind of stuff, but I think I at least get points for effort. My tombstone shall read: She Tried So Hard. Yes, that is also some ribbon that you see, in some great paisley prints. I cut out one of the fish from that paper and mounted it (think placecard or decoration for an outdoor party). The starfish card does require a little assembly (don't try this at home, expert at work here) and I would not recommend sending it via mail! The edges of the paper were cut with pinking shears, and the hearts and other cut outs are from Paper Source.

Two Sheets to the Wind!

2010-03-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

It's the little things that count...and also add up when you are trying to jazz up a beach house. Starting off simply, with just one main color has helped to point me in the right direction when picking out furniture and bedding, but it all can get very expensive quickly. In order to add some character to the house, (I opted to keep the exposed beams in their natural hue and to leave the original paint for now), I brought in some funky sheets and pillows to make things interesting (Life is too short, you gotta keep it interesting). Changing sheets, pillows and smaller accessories is a great way to give your pad a new look both quickly and inexpensively. Overstock.com and Amazon.com have a great selection of beachy sheets that will not break your bank (and at 200 thread count won't break your back either!). The Tommy Hilfiger Collection is great, and features bright stripey patterns, hula girls, little lobsters, and these cool "shark attack" sheets to the left. Given Montauk's long history of shark tournaments and its connection with the movie JAWS, these sheets were a must for me. They come in all the sizes you need-- out of the pool and into the bed!

What's Your Sign?

2010-03-22T01:10:00.000-07:00

Beach houses, shacks, cottages and bungalows have some of the best signs, from nautical, to rustic, to funky. There are several shops in Montauk where you can pick one out if you are sans sign, such as Haven, and there is even a small shop where you can have your sign made to order. This one to the left is at the Blue Gull Beach House, right above the outdoor shower, a perfect spot to plan your escape from the Real World.

Win a Rug for Your Beach House!

2010-03-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Completely Coastal, one of the latest beach blogs "Making Waves" has a free giveaway from Outer Banks Trading Group. Outer Banks Trading Group has a ton of cool beach-inspired home furnishings, and you could win one of their "jelly bean indoor/outdoor rugs." To enter, go to the Completely Coastal website and follow the instructions-- entries are accepted up until midnight on Thursday March 25. My favorite is the one to the left, called "Little Fleet." Check out their other styles and sign up to win!

Outdoor Space: The Best Room in the House

2010-03-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

One of the most important features of any beach house is its outdoor space. In the same way that you want to create a vibe inside a house that invites people in, you also want an outdoor space that "calls people out." Maximizing your outdoor space is key, and the great thing about the Blue Gull Beach House is that it has plenty of space, from backyard to side patio, to back patio, to front yard. This shot was taken of the back yard, and as you can see there's great space with a little natural shade. There are a number of catering companies in and around Montauk that set up fabulous clambakes, and will even set them up in your backyard-- I can just picture the tables and tents set up here for an event like that (possibly for the opening party of the season). To the right is the patio, simple concrete pavers where the main table will be stationed.

In terms of outdoor furniture, I am leaning towards teak. There was a great article in Outdoor Ideas & Solutions that reviews all the usual suspects: plastic, iron, aluminum and wood. All have their pros and cons, but it looks like teak will last a while, and still look great over time. The one area I plan on giving some attention is the front yard-- front yards are often under utilized, and can be a great spot to meet and greet visitors or just chill. More to come.

Calling All Flip Flops!

2010-03-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

The amazing weather this past weekend proves that summer is on it's way! Yes, for the first time this year, my toes braved the great outdoors yesterday, donning flip flops. Flip flops are a critical beach accessory, and with so many designers cranking out stylish thongs you will make it through summer 2010 looking hot (and haute). I will admit, I am a a shoe junkie (as well as a beach bunny), and I had this pair of sandals handmade in Capri, Italy. I do my best to visit beaches both in and out of the Hamptons, and if you want to feel like Sophia Loren, the place to go is Capri. With its fabulous beach clubs and private relax boats to help you explore the island, Capri will take you on a fantasy voyage. Travel to the top of the hill in Anacapri and get yourself some handmade sandals to fit your feet exactly. Sophia would approve!

New Montauk Restaurant

2010-03-19T04:54:00.001-07:00

I recently heard some buzz on a new restaurant in Montauk: Navy Beach. The restaurant has been described as "a beachfront restaurant and bar...serving coastal comfort food in a laid back family friendly environment." Hamptons.com wrote a full article on the restaurant, and it's official website can be found here. In the past few years a number of great restaurants have opened in the Amagansett/Montauk area-- my current favorites include Harvest and Indian Wells Tavern...yummy.

Beach Couch?

2010-03-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

My search for the perfect couch has ended! Picking a couch for the beach house has been difficult, as my appreciation for modern style has not meshed completely well with my desire for a comfy seat. I was able to find something of a compromise-- a navy blue couch, keeping with my blue theme (a bit more traditional) from IKEA has taken the lead. It has a great pull out bed for extra guests (there are always extra guests!) and can likely hold up to the wear and tear of beach traffic. Plus, the covers are all machine washable! With some white tables to match and...maybe a bit of paint in the future? What do you think?

BGBH

2010-03-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

One of the first things I thought about in selecting the Blue Gull Beach House was the overall feel-- When you go on a beach vacation, you want to open the door to wherever you are staying and feel calm, relaxed and away from it all. So of course, I had to make sure the master suite had it's own bathroom and private deck, on the side of the house opposite the main patio. This way guests can rise and enjoy those rare moments of peace and quiet. I also wanted there to be ample space for parties, and those moments when you just want to be loud! For this purpose, the yard is surrounded with privacy hedges, and the house itself has an open kitchen and expansive livingroom.

In fulfilling this overall theme, I've enjoyed shopping for stuff-- beachy stuff. Stuff that when I look around reminds me that, yes, I am at the beach (and Montauk has many beaches including my private beach one block from the house). The above picture shows one of the shelves in the hallway, to give you a sneak peak at my style direction. I know you're wondering-- what's with the name Blue Gull Beach House? Well, I decided the main color scheme (gotta have a good palette) would play off of touches of blue. Is it summer yet? More pictures to come...

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-17T04:14:00.000-07:00

This goes out to all of you enjoying St. Patrick's Day at the Beach! A number of beach towns have cool events going on today, and Montauk is getting ready for the big St. Patrick's Day Parade next Sunday, March 21. The parade runs down Main Street, with many local restaurants participating and chowder and hot soup served on the green beginning at 11 am. Question of the day: Can Leprechauns Surf??? I don't know the answer, but you can find that surfing leprechaun mouse pad that you've always wanted at Zazzle.

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2010-03-16T04:41:00.000-07:00

This rain is driving me crazy! But I tell you what, if I had to build an ark or just a boat for play, it would probably look a little something like this one. I shot this photo last year while at the Topside Bar at Gosman's, one of my favorite spots to daydream when it's not too crowded. If you go for an early afternoon drink, or a late lunch, you will see some amazing boats coming back from sea. The Gosman's Dock area is within walking distance from the beach house, and there are a number of quaint little shops to visit, a large restaurant, a cafe, a sushi bar (I have not tried their sushi yet, but I've heard it's awesome). In the summer months they sometimes host free concerts and other forms of live music, once the official calendar of events shapes up I will be sure to post it. For now, I am just waiting for the skies to clear, and daydreaming about summer 2010!

The Montauk Lighthouse

2010-03-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

No blog referencing Montauk would be complete without a shot of the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Authorized under the Second Congress by President George Washington in 1792, this structure is the oldest lighthouse in New York State. Visitors can tour the old oil room, the keepers dwelling, as well as climb the tower (leave your Jimmy Choos at home for this trip!).

As you head toward the lighthouse (fyi-- they do charge for parking, and there is a separate charge to climb the tower), you will pass Camp Hero State Park, an important spot in Long Island's military history. There are also a few conspiracy stories surrounding the area, so if you're a science fiction buff, this may be an interesting spot to check out. The last time I walked through I did not see any aliens, but there was a pretty charming fox on the premises. Also, a number of what I believe were unused artillery shells...at any rate, the area has beautiful views and makes for a cool walking spot. The above picture was taken on a cloudy day-- once the weather warms up, I'll post some better shots.

The Leisurama...A Beach House for Me

2010-03-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

One of the unexpected yet cool by-products of my house hunt was the unusual information that I uncovered regarding the different types and styles of vacation homes in Montauk. After viewing different styles of homes, from tudors designed by Carl Fisher to saltboxes in Ditch Plains, I fell in love with Raymond Loewy's concept and Andrew Geller's design in the "Leisurama."

This little house was once marketed in Macy's department store in NYC for $12, 990 (unbelievable!). The leisurama represented the post-WWII version of the American dream: easy living, a modern design, and as Nixon explained during the great kitchen debates with Nikita Krushchev, to "make easier the living of our housewives." No comment.

The Montauk Pioneer published a great article on the history of these little beach homes, and if you are really interested in how these homes have evolved over time, check out Paul Sahre's recent book, Leisurama Now: The Beach House for Everyone, 1964-. The book includes information on what originally came with these homes, and how some of them have been updated by new owners. I do still have some of the original furniture, and hope to give some pieces a facelift in the next few months. The above picture of the kitchen table is the original piece that was included when the house when it made it's debut back in the 1960's.

Movin' on Out...to the East End

2010-03-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

Closing Day was Friday, March 12, and when it was over, we celebrated with a toast at Deks in Rocky Point, NY. From there, the drive out east began-- I've always loved that trip, winding through the many villages and hamlets of the Hamptons. You first cut through Riverhead (filled with pretty farmland), and head toward the Hampton Bays, next passing through Southampton, Bridgehampton, East Hampton and Amagansett as you make your way across the south fork. There are a number of interesting shops, windmills, and vineyards to keep you company along the way.
The rain was a bit rough on friday's drive, but the roughest part was arriving at my new destination (full of excitement) sticking my key in the door and realizing that the electricity was turned off...of course! No electric, no heat, just a car full of stuff to move in and a bottle of champagne waiting in the fridge from the kind sellers of the property. My real estate company, Atlantic Beach Realty Group (Thank You MaryAnn!) was amazing through this whole process, and once again came through to make sure I did not freeze through the night! They provided a room at the Montauk Manor, and we were able to move in bits and pieces to bring the beach house to life the next day. These pictures are just a few of many to come as we prepare for an amazing summer season!

Welcome!

2010-03-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the official blog for The Blue Gull Beach House, located in Montauk, NY! I've created this blog to provide information to those who wish to rent my home, to share my adventures in the Hamptons (and out of the Hamptons), and to showcase my photography. Thanks for stopping by!