Catching a glimpse of a North Fork sunset is a special treat — especially during the late winter. Whether you time your sun drop with a stroll along the beach or decide on an impromptu drive, there are countless spots to witness the sun slipping below the horizon. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite locations across the North Fork. Despite the lingering chill, these beaches accommodate private viewing right from the comfort of your car.
Kenney’s Beach
4200 Kenneys Road, Southold
At the end of Kenneys Road is a small beach on Long Island Sound. Take an evening walk and see the oranges and yellows of the late-winter sunsets glisten off the water. Afterward, stop by Little Fish just up the street for a taste of the sea and local provisions.
Goldsmith’s Inlet Park
1999 Soundview Ave., Southold
Far from the hustle and bustle of Main Road life is Goldsmith’s Inlet Park, a peaceful spot to listen to the waves of the Sound lapping ashore and watch seabirds dive as you observe the unique ecosystem hugging the shoreline.
Veterans Beach
11280 Peconic Bay Blvd., Mattituck
Spring sunsets at Veterans are unparalleled. Look out over the bay and watch the colors transform the scenery from gold to pink to orange around the rocky shoreline. This mini beach, formed on the breakwater jetty, is also a great place to peek at the Wednesday evening sailboat races to Robins Island.
Crescent Beach
Shore Road, Shelter Island
Situated along the northwestern side of the island, perhaps the most well-known strip of sand on the island is Crescent Beach, also locally known as Louie’s Beach for Louis Behringer, a German immigrant who, through marriage, became the owner of the former Shelter Island House on Stearns Point Road in the early 20th century. This beautiful half-mile haven offers views of Southold and Greenport across Shelter Island Sound, with ample parking available just steps from the sand.
Wading River Beach
Creek Road, Wading River
As Riverhead Town’s westernmost beach, this small sandy strip is perfect for an evening walk to take in the peaceful sounds of the waves as they lap upon rocks jutting out into the Sound. Wading River Beach is also a great place to take the little ones for play, as a playground sits right on the sand.
Please note: Seasonal parking permits are required at all beaches in the towns of Southold and Shelter Island from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Town of Riverhead requires year-round parking permits. Call the Southold Town clerk (631-765-1801), Riverhead Town clerk (631-727-3200) or Shelter Island Town clerk (631-749-1166) to acquire a parking permit.
