Shelter Island Beach Parking Permits

Get Your Permit, Plan Your Visit

Understanding Shelter Island’s Parking System

Beach parking on Shelter Island is restricted from May 15 through September 15 each year to manage capacity and preserve the island’s beaches and natural resources. During this peak season, all vehicles parking at Shelter Island beaches, public landings, and boat ramps must display a valid parking permit. The good news: the system is straightforward and affordable, with multiple options to suit different visitor needs and budgets.

Permit Types & Pricing (2026)

The Town of Shelter Island offers flexible permit options to accommodate both residents and visitors:

Resident Permits – FREE

Residents of Shelter Island receive complimentary beach parking permits. To obtain a resident permit, you must present proof of residency—either a car registration showing a Shelter Island address or documentation of property ownership. Resident permits allow unlimited parking at all restricted beaches, landings, and boat ramps throughout the season.

Non-Resident Permits

  • Daily Pass: $25 per day (limited to Wades Beach and Shell Beach only; maximum 10 permits issued per day)
  • Weekly Pass: $70 (7 consecutive days, valid at all beaches)
  • Monthly Pass: $125 (30 consecutive days, valid at all beaches)
  • Seasonal Pass: $250 (May 15 – September 15, valid at all beaches and landings)

Which Beaches Require Permits?

The following Shelter Island locations require valid parking permits May 15 through September 15:

Where to Get Your Permit

In Person: Town Clerk’s Office

Location: Shelter Island Town Hall, 38 North Ferry Road, Shelter Island, NY 11964

Phone: 631-749-1166

Email: townclerk@shelterislandtown.us

Stop by the Town Clerk’s office during regular business hours to purchase permits in person. You’ll need to present proof of residency (for residents) or a rental agreement/ID (for visitors). Staff can answer questions about which beaches require permits and provide recommendations based on your interests.

Online: Daily Permits Only

Daily parking permits for Wades Beach and Shell Beach can be purchased online through the Town of Shelter Island website at shelterislandtown.gov. Online purchases are convenient for day-trippers and can be done 24/7 from home or on your phone before arriving. Remember that daily permits are limited to 10 per day per beach, so it’s wise to purchase early on busy summer weekends.

Display Requirements

Once you have your permit, display it prominently on the left side of your rear bumper. The permit must be clearly visible to parking enforcement personnel. Failure to display a valid permit may result in a parking ticket. Keep your permit with you whenever parking at restricted areas during the May 15–September 15 season.

Permit Validation & Duration

All permits are valid only during the restricted season: May 15 through September 15. Weekly and monthly passes run consecutively from the date of purchase. Seasonal passes cover the entire May 15–September 15 period. Daily permits are valid only on the specific date of purchase. Check your permit for its expiration date and plan accordingly.

What If I Lose My Permit?

If your permit is lost or stolen, contact the Town Clerk’s office immediately. They can issue a replacement for a nominal fee. It’s a good idea to photograph or note your permit number for your records in case you need to report a lost permit.

Planning Your Beach Visit

For Day-Trippers

If you’re visiting Shelter Island for a single day, a daily permit ($25) is the most economical choice. These are available for Wades Beach and Shell Beach and can be purchased online for convenience. Arrive early on weekends—daily permits are capped at 10, and they sell out quickly during peak season.

For Week-Long Stays

A weekly permit ($70) is economical for visitors staying 3+ days and offers flexibility to explore multiple beaches throughout your stay. Weekly permits are valid at all beaches.

For Extended Vacations

Monthly ($125) or seasonal ($250) permits make sense for visitors with longer stays or those planning multiple Shelter Island trips during the summer season.

Ferry Information

Getting to Shelter Island is easy via the Shelter Island ferries:

  • North Ferry: Connects Greenport (North Fork) to Shelter Island (5–7 minute crossing)
  • South Ferry: Connects North Haven (near Sag Harbor) to Shelter Island (5–7 minute crossing)

Both ferries operate year-round with frequent departures during peak season. Ferries accept walk-ons, bicycles, and vehicles. Visit the Shelter Island Ferry website for current schedules and rates.

Additional Resources

Town of Shelter Island Website: shelterislandtown.gov

Beach Information: Visit Shelter Island Parks & Beaches for detailed guides to each beach.

Questions?

For parking permit questions, contact the Town Clerk’s office at 631-749-1166 or townclerk@shelterislandtown.us. For beach and recreation information, check the town website or visit in person—staff are happy to help plan your island adventure.

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