Menhaden Lane Beach
A Quiet Town Landing with Stunning Gardiner's Bay Views
About Menhaden Lane Beach
Menhaden Lane is one of Shelter Island’s quieter beach access points — a town landing on the east side of the island offering a glorious, unobstructed view of Gardiner’s Bay. While technically classified as a town landing rather than a formal beach, Menhaden Lane is a favorite among locals who appreciate its peaceful setting, expansive water views, and lack of crowds. If you’re looking for solitude and natural beauty without the activity of the larger beaches, Menhaden Lane is your spot.
Location & Setting
Situated on Shelter Island’s eastern shore, Menhaden Lane faces Gardiner’s Bay with views stretching toward Gardiner’s Island and the open waters beyond. The landing provides direct waterfront access with a small parking area. The location feels wonderfully remote — it’s one of those places where you can sit quietly and watch the water without another soul in sight, especially on weekday mornings.
What to Expect
Menhaden Lane is an undeveloped, natural access point. There are no restrooms, lifeguards, pavilions, or concessions — just the shoreline, the water, and the sky. This is by design. The landing preserves the raw, natural character of Shelter Island’s eastern coast. Visitors come here for the view, the quiet, and the simplicity. It’s an excellent spot for watching sunrise over the bay, kayak launching, or simply sitting with a book and letting the world slow down.
Beach Driving Rules
Menhaden Lane allows 24-hour parking with a valid permit. However, beach driving is prohibited between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM during summer season. Outside these hours, vehicles with proper permits may access the beach area. Always follow posted signage and respect any seasonal restrictions.
Parking & Permits
Like all Shelter Island beaches and landings, parking at Menhaden Lane requires a permit from May 15 through September 15. Daily permits are available for $25 and can be purchased onsite or in advance online. Weekly ($70), monthly ($125), and seasonal ($250) passes are also available from the Town Clerk’s Office. Residents park free with proof of Shelter Island address. Full parking permit details →
Best For
Menhaden Lane is ideal for visitors who want a contemplative, low-key beach experience. It’s perfect for sunrise watching, photography, kayak or paddleboard launching, fishing, and quiet picnics. It’s also a wonderful cycling destination — the ride out to Menhaden Lane from the center of the island takes you through some of Shelter Island’s most scenic back roads.
What to Bring
Since there are no amenities, come prepared. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a beach chair or blanket, and anything else you’ll need for the duration of your visit. If you’re launching a kayak or paddleboard, the gentle bay waters here make for excellent paddling conditions. Pack out all trash — keeping Menhaden Lane pristine depends on every visitor doing their part.
