Finding the words to describe Startop Ranch can be difficult. At the top of Montauk, you’ll find one of the most beautiful real estate properties ever built; it is remarkable. Startop Ranch can ignite all your senses, with the wind blowing across your face as your eyes watch horses run and boats drift by. You can hear leaves rustling and taste the salt air, finding peace in the beauty around you. While now for sale, the final parcel at 107 Startop Drive is more than just a piece of land—it is an opportunity to become part of the Montauk legacy, to continue a story that began in 1957 and was founded with a deep love for the area.
Startop Ranch’s Legacy
Now a lasting portrait of luxury and natural beauty, East Lake Drive’s evolution has been the Star Family, beginning with Leon “Doc” Star, who purchased the land in 1957. The land’s story has continued over the years through Priscilla Star, whose visions and dedication further shaped the development of Startop Ranch.
Like many individuals who split their time between New York City and the Hamptons, Doc sought every possible way for him and his family to enjoy Startop shortly after its purchase. To help make the most of his time, Doc learned how to fly so he could quickly travel to and from the Big Apple. The Montauk airport was built by Perry Duryea the same year that Doc purchased Startop, and this airport remains a part of the Startop story today.
“The airport tower would always clear the runway whenever ‘Doc’ was flying out,” Priscilla said with pride. Clearing the runway for Startop’s finest was partly out of respect but also because Doc was the official doctor for the Kennedy Airport in NYC.
Also a part of its story, Startop was once a thoroughbred breeding farm. This land is steeped in equestrian history, holding a distinction as one of New York’s premier breeding farms during the 1980s. Among Startop Ranch’s most remarkable history was the birth of a rare albino horse, a moment that solidified its place in the annals of equestrian history.
Connected to a web of riding and hiking trails leading to Oyster Pond, the Lighthouse, and beyond, Startop Ranch is where nature and legacy meet. Horses galloped freely across the area, and herds of cattle once roamed nearby.
“I remember rides down to Oyster Pond as a tranquil escape, especially on horseback. Trotting along sandy paths, the breeze rustling through the parklands, picking blackberries along the way to bake pies. Oyster Pond is the perfect spot for a picnic—blankets spread, sandwiches, and cool drinks in hand. The horses graze nearby while we savor the view of the pond and the peaceful waves,” said Priscilla.
Priscilla’s Vision
Priscilla’s approach to Startop’s development has always been deeply personal. With her lifelong connection to Montauk, she was adamant about a thoughtful subdivision of the land, prioritizing land easements and creating spacious parcels to preserve the sense of privacy. Her decision ensured that Startop would remain a place of spacious luxury and natural beauty, an exclusive estate in one of Montauk’s most distinct places.
“There is magic here that we preserved,” shared Priscilla.
A Rare Invitation
Startop Ranch’s beautiful story stems from Priscilla Star and the Star Family’s efforts to keep life at Startop Ranch rooted to the land. To understand Startop’s future is to appreciate its unique history and the legacy of the Star Family. As the final parcel at Startop Drive is now up for sale, this is a rare invitation to own a piece of Montauk’s Startop.
“This is it. The last chance to own part of Montauk’s Startop legacy. Startop Ranch encapsulates why Montauk is so special and unique, especially within the Hamptons,” adds Ed Bruehl, the exclusive real estate agent representing Startop Ranch.
Anyone who lives in an estate at Startop Ranch will feel Montauk’s spirit reflected through the spacious, rugged elegance of this breathtaking location in Hampton.
