An East End island that’s on a whole different wavelength. Welcome to Shelter Island. 

Nestled between the North and South Forks, Shelter Island is an exclusive community only accessible by ferry. Residents really take the phrase “on island time” to heart; there are no stoplights or even a postal service on the island — all residences have a P.O. box instead. Large portions of the island are wetlands protected by the government and The Nature Conservancy, which visitors can enjoy from various trails. Though part of the East End, Shelter Island can feel like a different world from the usual Hamptons glitz and glam. 

Island life revolves around the water: you’ll find bustling marinas and plenty of serene beaches, coves, and inlets to explore. Restaurants are always serving up the freshest catch, but on the off chance you want something else, you can find classic new york pizza and another local fare at places like Isola. There are no chain stores on the island, but there are boutiques and quirky gift shops to pick up home goods and other unique finds. The island’s natural beauty makes it an artist’s paradise, and you can pick up some inspired work at several local art galleries. 

Shelter Island is the place for people who want a laidback way of life away from the hustle and bustle of the East End. Like many Hamptons communities, the architecture ranges from grand Victorians to shingled farmhouses to modern waterfront estates. Many properties have been in Island families for generations, passed down as heirlooms. The exclusivity of Shelter Island makes it a hot housing market as more and more people discover its rustic charm.