When winter settles over Montauk, something magical happens. The crowds thin, the ocean feels closer, and the quiet becomes part of the romance. For couples seeking a Valentine’s Day escape that feels intimate, restorative, and deeply special, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa offers an unforgettable winter retreat.
We sat down with Michael Nenner, the President and COO of Gurney’s Montauk, to talk about what makes the resort so uniquely romantic this time of year, and why Valentine’s weekend at Gurney’s is unlike anywhere else on Long Island.
A Quieter Montauk, A Deeper Romance
Winter reveals a softer, more secluded side of Montauk, and at Gurney’s, that sense of escape is amplified.
“The resort is secluded enough during this time and you don’t have the buzz of summer season and all the people around,” Nenner shares. Instead, couples can enjoy quiet walks along the beach, listening to the waves and soaking in the peacefulness that winter brings. It’s Montauk at its most serene, where the pace slows and the connection deepens.
Everything You Need, Without Ever Leaving the Property
One of the most romantic aspects of a winter stay at Gurney’s is how effortless it feels. Couples don’t need to plan or travel far, everything is right at their fingertips.
From fitness and yoga classes to mixology experiences, spa treatments, and the iconic bathhouse, Gurney’s is designed for shared moments. “There are a ton of programming onsite that couples can enjoy together,” Nenner says, making it easy to relax, reconnect, and indulge without leaving the resort.
Valentine’s Weekend: Three Can’t-Miss Experiences
For couples visiting over Valentine’s weekend, Nenner highlights three standout experiences:
- A hands-on mixology class-Where couples taste, learn, and craft cocktails together, equal parts fun and romantic!
- The Seawater Spa and Bathhouse-A coed space where guests can unwind together and enjoy the full restorative experience.
- Dinner at Gigi’s-The resort’s newest restaurant, featuring Valentine’s Day specials. While the menu mirrors the summer offerings, winter brings a rare opportunity: the same celebrated cuisine, without the summer waitlist.
First Impressions That Take Your Breath Away
The romance begins the moment couples arrive.
“Gurney’s is newly renovated, which is easy to spot as soon as you walk in,” Nenner explains. But it’s the view that truly sets the tone. “Your first glimpse after the long ride is the wide view of the ocean, it doesn’t matter the time of year, you’re getting the same feel that you’ve arrived in such a different destination than anything else on Long Island.”
The Hidden Corners Couples Fall in Love With
Beyond the sweeping ocean views, Gurney’s is filled with intimate spaces that feel almost secret.
There’s the Dune Café and Dune Lounge, complete with a pool table and panoramic beach views. Outdoor fire pits remain lit through winter, perfect for cozying up after dinner at Gigi’s. And for colder evenings, the resort’s igloos which are available through April offer a warm, private escape. All igloo entry proceeds ($25 per person) support the Montauk Food Pantry and Project MOST in East Hampton, adding a meaningful touch to the experience.
A Favorite Moment: Winter Sunrise by the Sea
For Nenner, the most magical time of day at the resort comes early.
“This time of year, sunrise is later, which is good,” he says. Watching the sun rise over the ocean from the patio, wrapped in a robe with a cup of coffee in hand, is a moment of pure presence. “It doesn’t matter how cold it is, you still enjoy the world, and nothing else around matters.”
Love Stories That Last a Lifetime
Gurney’s has been the backdrop for countless unforgettable moments, but proposals stand out as especially meaningful.
“The set-ups are incredible, and we try to make it as personal and special as possible,” Nenner shares. From candlelit dinners on the beach with “Marry Me” written in the sand to surprise photography and music coordinated behind the scenes, Gurney’s specializes in creating once-in-a-lifetime memories, often without the guest ever knowing what’s coming.
A Valentine’s Escape to Remember
This Valentine’s Day, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa offers couples the chance to slow down, reconnect, and experience Montauk in its most intimate season. With sweeping ocean views, thoughtful programming, and quiet moments designed for two, it’s romance by the sea, perfectly timed.
