All Parks & Nature in Shelter Island

West Neck Preserve is a 7.7-acre woodland preserve on the southwestern end of Shelter Island. A path traces the perimeter of the property around an interior open field, offering a pleasant short walk through a mix of forest edge and grassland habitats. Access from the south end of West Neck Road. Read more...

Wayside Park is a charming 0.75-acre pocket park overlooking Coecles Harbor with a water view and picnic table. Despite its small size, it offers one of the island’s most accessible waterfront vantage points. Located at the east end of Burns Road, it is perfect for a quick rest and harbor views. Read more...

Turkem’s Rest Preserve is a 6-acre natural area featuring a trail that encompasses tidal wetlands and a loop through upland woods with views of Fresh Pond. The varied terrain — from wetland boardwalk to forest trail — makes this a rewarding short hike. Access is from S. Midway Road. Read more...

Taylor’s Island is a 1.5-acre island in Coecles Harbor, home to the historic Smith-Taylor Cabin. Accessible only by kayak or shallow draft boat from Town landings on Burns Road and Congdon Road, it offers a unique adventure for paddlers. Docent-led tours are available May through October. Contact pat@taylorsisland.org or call 631-749-1603 for tour information. Read more...

St. Gabriel’s Meadow is a 7.75-acre open field near Coecles Harbor that provides sweeping, pretty vistas of the surrounding landscape and water. The large open meadow is a peaceful spot for a picnic, sunset viewing, or simply enjoying the expansive island sky. Access is from Burns Road. Read more...

Sachem’s Woods is a 36-acre forest preserve featuring a mile-plus loop trail through a magnificent forest of oak and beech trees. A large white pine stands in the center clearing, serving as a natural landmark. The well-maintained trail is one of the most popular hiking routes on Shelter Island, suitable for all skill levels. Access from N. Midway Road or Read more...

Reel Point is an 8.5-acre fragile sand peninsula and important haven for migratory birds and butterflies. The point faces east to Gardiners Bay and west to Coecles Harbor, providing dramatic coastal views from both sides. This ecologically sensitive area is one of the best spots on Shelter Island for birding during spring and fall migration. Access is at the end Read more...

Old Nursery Woodlands Preserve offers 24 acres of former nursery land with multiple loop trails that wind through unique, abandoned plant stock. The unusual mix of cultivated specimens and wild forest regrowth creates a one-of-a-kind woodland experience. This is one of the most interesting walks on Shelter Island for plant enthusiasts. Access from Route 114 or St. Mary’s Road. Read more...

Old Lima Bean Fields is a 14.5-acre preserve with a three-quarter mile trail winding through former lima bean and nursery fields. An existing water pump remains as a reminder of the land’s agricultural past. The open fields and gentle terrain make this an easy, scenic walk with views across the island’s interior landscape. Access is at the corner of Cobbett’s Read more...

North Menantic Preserve is a 6-acre open space featuring paths through high grass meadows, shrubs, trees, and a ravine. The varied terrain provides habitat for grassland birds and butterflies. Located on North Menantic Road across from Bowditch Road, it offers a quick nature escape in the island’s interior. Read more...

Locust Woods Preserve covers 11.13 acres of woodland characterized by a path winding through a beautiful locust grove. The preserve offers a shaded, atmospheric walk through one of Shelter Island’s distinctive forest habitats. Accessible from Manhanset Road on the island’s north side. Read more...

Ice Pond Park is a 9-acre preserve featuring a loop trail around a freshwater pond with a marsh to the south and Chase Creek to the north. The pond was historically used for ice harvesting. Today it offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful walk through varied wetland habitats. Located on New York Avenue near the center of Shelter Island. Read more...

Gardiners Creek Preserve is a 4-acre waterfront sanctuary offering views of Gardiners Creek, which connects to Dering Harbor. The preserve provides a tranquil setting for observing tidal creek ecology and waterbirds. Access is from Quail Hedge Lane off Route 114, making it an easy side trip for visitors heading to or from the North Ferry. Read more...

Foxen Point Tidal Wetlands spans 37 acres of ecologically rich tidal habitat on the eastern shore of Shelter Island. An unpaved road leads to a beach area on Coecles Harbor and a portion of Congdon’s Creek. This preserve is important habitat for shorebirds, fish, and shellfish. Access is south of Burns Road off N. Cartwright Road. Note: a private residence Read more...

This compact 1.2-acre preserve offers splendid elevated views of Dickerson Creek, West Neck Harbor, and the surrounding landscape. Accessible from the intersection of Tarkettle Road and Charlie’s Lane, it provides a scenic overlook that rewards visitors with panoramic water views. A hidden gem for photography and sunset watching. Read more...

Dickerson Pond Park is a scenic 8-acre park centered around a spring-fed pond in the heart of Shelter Island. A walking loop surrounds the pond, passing through a large field dotted with specimen trees. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or simply enjoying the reflections on the pond. Located on Menantic Road, it is one of the Read more...

Crab Creek Preserve is a 12.6-acre natural area featuring a mix of pine grove, open meadow, and oak and beech woods. The preserve opens to beautiful views of Crab Creek and Shelter Island Sound on the western shore. Access is via Brander Parkway by the pine grove. A wonderful spot for birdwatching, wildflower viewing, and quiet contemplation along the water. Read more...

This intimate 1-acre preserve sits at the waterfront head of Congdon Creek, just steps from the Shelter Island Town Dock. The shorefront location offers views of the creek and harbor, making it a convenient spot for a quick nature break while visiting Shelter Island Heights. Access is from the east end of Congdon Road. Read more...

Cackle Hill Preserve encompasses 17 acres of coastal woodland on the southwestern shore of Shelter Island. A dirt road winds through mixed deciduous trees including oak, hickory, and maple, providing a quiet and shaded walk. The preserve connects to scenic views of West Neck Bay and is accessible from Stearns Point Road. Ideal for a peaceful nature walk year-round. Read more...

Bunker City County Park is a 42-acre coastal preserve on the northern tip of Shelter Island, dominated by red cedars and native grasses. The park offers scenic walking paths through maritime shrubland with views of Dering Harbor and Greenport. Parking is available on Menhaden Lane by permit during summer season, with additional access via a dirt road off Ram Island Read more...

The Mildred Flower Hird Nature Preserve is a 30-acre protected area on Shelter Island featuring oak and beech forest with beautiful views of Julia Dodd Creek. Accessed via Island Way Road off Overlook Place, the preserve is a peaceful spot for a quiet nature walk and excellent birdwatching, particularly for great blue herons. Read more...

Shell Beach is a quieter, more secluded beach on the eastern side of Shelter Island, popular with locals who appreciate its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. No lifeguard is on duty, so swimming is at your own risk. A parking permit is required. Shell Beach is a great spot for beachcombing, birdwatching, and enjoying Shelter Island away from the summer Read more...

Wades Beach is considered Shelter Island’s most family-friendly beach, located on the south side of the island with calm, gentle waters, lifeguards in season, and restroom facilities. The beach is less crowded than Crescent Beach and offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. A parking permit is required in summer — available from the Town Clerk’s Office. Read more...

Crescent Beach is one of Shelter Island’s most popular and beautiful beaches, located on the northwest shore near Shore Road. With calm, protected waters, soft sand, a lifeguard on duty in season, and restroom facilities, Crescent Beach is ideal for families and swimmers. The beach faces west, making it one of the best spots on Shelter Island for spectacular sunsets. Read more...