Your New Staycation Hot Spot: Shelter Island

by Danielle Rufrano @duskandrubies 

Every weekend brings thousands of people from the hot city streets of Manhattan out to the hot sandy beaches of the Hamptons, and Sunrise Highway becomes flooded with bumper to bumper traffic. Usually I play it safe, and stay far away from the frustrations by lounging by the pool, but this past weekend I decided to take a chance and voyage to Greenport where we could take the ferry to Shelter Island. We hit no traffic on Sunday, and the trip was so affordable and relaxing! Take a look at some pictures below.

What are the perks of staying on Shelter Island for the weekend? Let us list them for you!

1. Ferry trip is cost efficient: If you take the North Ferry it costs $2 to walk on, $15 roundup to take your car, $5 to take your bicycle, and if you do decide to leave your car parking is free! I like not having to worry about all the extras and I am sure you do too!

2. Beaches: There is plenty of beaches to visit, and activities to do on the island. One of my favorite beaches is Crescent Beach. The waterfront home to the chic Sunset Beach Hotel.

While the Sunset Beach Hotel is an expensive hotel, you can still use their beach and dine at their beach-side restaurant without staying in the hotel.

If you are looking for a more affordable place to stay, then there are many Bed & Breakfasts on the island as well as the notable Pridwin, which offers a private beach, pool, kayaking, sunfish, paddle boats, bicycles for local touring, tennis and excursions to the Mashomack Preserve.

So next time you’re looking for a last minute and affordable weekend getaway, check out Shelter Island and its amazing beaches, amenities, and views!

Happy R&R!