TRAVEL TIME 3 hours by car
WHY? A real hideaway, nestled between Long Island’s two forks — secluded, simple, and unspoiled, there are six gorgeous beaches and three harbors to enjoy.
MUST DO Put on your walking shoes and explore the island’s quiet back roads, many which rarely see car traffic. Get friendly with a local and golf at the invitation-only Gardiner’s Bay Country Club‘s 18 hole golf course. Check out the island’s history at Havens House, Shelter Island’s Historical Society’s museum and an important colonial home when it was built in 1743. The island’s eateries generally tend to lack pretension – hit the rustic-looking Vine Street Café for local, organic food, you’ll want to try the miso-glazed salmon with bok choy; the ceviches and a seasonal raw bar are also popular (41 South Ferry Rd.; [631] 749-3210). For dinner, eat at Sweet Tomatoes for classics like chicken Antonio – white meat in pink, cognac sauce (15 Grand Ave.; [631] 749-4114). For delicious fresh seafood to go, there are two fish markets: Bob’s Fish Market (87 North Ferry Rd.; [631] 749-0830) and Commander Cody’s Fish Shoppe (corner of Smith St. and Midway Rd.; [631] 749-1851).
STAY HERE Avoid the extravagantly priced and generally rather miserable Sunset Beach. Instead, stay at The Pridwin
, a quaint hotel near quieter Crescent Beach where you can swim in the bay, or take a dip in the pool. It has 40 rooms, all with private baths, air-con and tvs and phones — basic, but good. It also has just renovated, cute cottages with water-views and a private pier. Its restaurant overlooks Southold Bay. Guests can use kayaks, sunfish, and paddle boats. There are bicycles for local touring (from $197 with breakfast through Sept. 8; [631] 749-0476).
HAPPENINGS In August, the local volunteer fire department holds a chicken cookout to raise money. Locals say, “It’s the best party of the year.” For energetic types, the 30th anniversary Shelter Island 10K Run is scheduled for June 20. The Shelter Island Historical Society has a cool house tour on August 2 that checks out seven contemporary, non-traditional houses, many with pools and their own guesthouses. Tickets: (631) 749-0025.
HOT TIP Explore the Coecles Harbor Marine Water Trail, where you might see turtles, and dozens of birds including ospreys. The trail was established by the town, the Nature Conservancy and Shelter Island Kayak Tours in 2001 (for a map, visit 71 Cartwright Road or call [631] 749-1990).
LEARN MORE
www.shelterislandchamber.com