Picture this: just a short two-hour journey from the bustling cityscape of New York, lies an enchanting getaway that feels like a world of its own. This idyllic island, surrounded by shimmering waters, offers an escape from the chaos of everyday life and promises a tranquil haven for those seeking solace. With its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this hidden gem has become a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on a remarkable adventure to discover the answer to a simple yet intriguing question – what island is just two hours away from the vibrant streets of New York?
Long Island
Geography
Long Island is a beautiful and diverse island located just east of New York City. It stretches approximately 118 miles in length and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and Long Island Sound to the north. The island is divided into four counties: Kings (Brooklyn), Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk. With its stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich history, Long Island offers a wide range of geographical features and landscapes for visitors to explore.
Attractions
Long Island is known for its picturesque beaches, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. From the bustling shores of Jones Beach to the peaceful tranquility of Montauk, there is a beach for everyone’s taste. In addition to its natural beauty, Long Island boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The area is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, where you can immerse yourself in the local arts community. Wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants also dot the landscape, offering visitors the chance to indulge in delicious food and drink.
For history buffs, there are plenty of historical landmarks and sites to explore. The Gold Coast mansions of the Gilded Age, such as the Vanderbilts’ “Eagle’s Nest” and Teddy Roosevelt’s “Sagamore Hill,” are a testament to the island’s opulence during the early 20th century. Additionally, the Long Island Maritime Museum and Fire Island Lighthouse provide insights into the region’s maritime history.
Transportation
Getting to and around Long Island is relatively easy. If you’re coming from New York City, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which offers frequent service to various destinations on the island. The LIRR connects with the New York City subway system, making it convenient to travel from Manhattan to Long Island. Once on the island, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use rideshare services to navigate between different attractions and towns. Public buses also provide transportation within and between different sections of Long Island.
Fire Island
Geography
Fire Island is a barrier island located off the southern coast of Long Island, New York. It stretches for approximately 31 miles and is known for its pristine beaches, dunes, and marshland. The island is protected by the Fire Island National Seashore, which preserves its natural beauty and wildlife habitats.
Attractions
Fire Island is a popular vacation destination, offering visitors a peaceful and secluded getaway from the bustling city life. The island is car-free, allowing visitors to embrace a slower pace of life and fully enjoy its natural surroundings. With its picturesque beaches, visitors can relax, swim, and sunbathe while enjoying the stunning ocean views. The Sunken Forest, a unique maritime holly forest, is a must-visit attraction. It provides an opportunity to explore a rare ecosystem and observe various bird species.
Fire Island is also known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and lively nightlife. The island is home to several LGBTQ+-friendly resort towns, such as Cherry Grove and The Pines, where visitors can find bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
Transportation
To access Fire Island, you can take a ferry from Long Island. Ferries depart from several locations, including Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue. Once on the island, bicycles and walking become the primary modes of transportation. There are limited fuel-driven vehicles on the island, mainly used for essential services.
Staten Island
Geography
Staten Island is the southernmost of the five boroughs of New York City and is situated in the southwest part of the city. It is separated from New Jersey by the Arthur Kill and from the rest of New York City by the Upper New York Bay. With a land area of approximately 58.5 square miles, Staten Island is the third-largest of the five boroughs and offers a mix of suburban and urban environments.
Attractions
Staten Island is home to the famous Staten Island Ferry, which provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. The Staten Island Zoo offers an opportunity to observe a wide range of animal species, including snakes, kangaroos, and sea lions. Historic Richmond Town, a living history village, allows visitors to step back in time and experience colonial America.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Staten Island Greenbelt, a network of parks and nature reserves offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and beautiful scenery. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is another popular attraction, featuring stunning gardens, art exhibitions, and live performances.
Transportation
The Staten Island Ferry is the most iconic mode of transportation to and from Staten Island. The ferry operates 24/7 and offers free service between St. George Terminal on Staten Island and Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. Staten Island is also accessible by car via several bridges and tunnels, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge connecting it to Brooklyn. Public buses and the Staten Island Railway provide transportation within the borough.
City Island
Geography
City Island is a small island located in the Bronx, New York City. It stretches for approximately 1.5 miles and is situated in the Long Island Sound, just off the coast of Pelham Bay Park. The island has a charming New England feel, with its narrow streets, picturesque waterfront, and small-town atmosphere.
Attractions
City Island is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of maritime history, delicious seafood, and quaint shops. Known as the “Seaport of the Bronx,” the island has a rich nautical heritage. The City Island Nautical Museum showcases the island’s maritime history, while the famous City Island Bridge offers picturesque views of the surrounding waters.
Seafood lovers will be delighted by the island’s numerous seafood restaurants, serving up fresh catches of the day. Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering lobster rolls, succulent clams, and other delectable seafood delicacies. The island is also home to various art galleries and boutiques, where visitors can browse local artwork and handicrafts.
Transportation
Reaching City Island is relatively easy. If you’re traveling from Manhattan, you can take the subway to Pelham Bay Park and then transfer to the Bx29 bus, which will take you directly to City Island. Alternatively, you can drive and park on the island, as street parking is available. Once on the island, walking or renting a bicycle is the best way to explore its charming streets and waterfront.
Governors Island
Geography
Governors Island is a small island located in Upper New York Bay, approximately a half-mile from the southern tip of Manhattan. The island spans approximately 172 acres and is known for its lush green spaces, historic landmarks, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Attractions
Governors Island offers a unique mix of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. The island is home to several historic forts, including Fort Jay and Castle Williams, which played significant roles in American military history. Visitors can explore these landmarks, learn about their historical significance, and enjoy the panoramic views from their ramparts.
Parks and green spaces abound on Governors Island, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The island features bike paths, walking trails, and picnic areas, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The Hills, a series of man-made hills with sweeping views, offer a fun and scenic way to experience the island’s topography.
Throughout the summer months, Governors Island hosts a wide range of cultural events, including art exhibitions, live concerts, and food festivals. These events showcase the island’s vibrant arts and culinary scene, making a visit to Governors Island a truly immersive experience.
Transportation
To access Governors Island, visitors can take a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn. The ferries operate seasonally and provide a picturesque journey across the Upper New York Bay. Once on the island, walking and biking are the main modes of transportation. Visitors can rent bicycles on the island or bring their own.
Roosevelt Island
Geography
Roosevelt Island is a narrow island located in the East River, between Manhattan and Queens. It stretches for approximately 2 miles and offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Queensboro Bridge. The island was named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1973.
Attractions
Roosevelt Island is home to several iconic landmarks and attractions. The Roosevelt Island Tramway, a cable car system, provides breathtaking views as it transports passengers from Manhattan to the island. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the Roosevelt Island Promenade, which offers stunning views of the East River and Manhattan.
The island is also known for its cultural institutions, such as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a memorial dedicated to President Roosevelt. The park’s design, featuring a granite plaza and a serene landscape, encourages reflection and contemplation. The Octagon, a former asylum turned luxury residential building, showcases beautiful architecture and hosts various events and exhibitions.
Transportation
The Roosevelt Island Tramway is one of the most unique and scenic modes of transportation to reach the island. It operates daily and connects the island to Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Additionally, visitors can take the F train subway line, which has a station on Roosevelt Island. Walking and biking are popular ways to explore the island, and there are designated paths and lanes for pedestrians and cyclists.
Coney Island
Geography
Coney Island is a peninsular neighborhood located in the southernmost part of Brooklyn, New York City. The area is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west, and by Sheepshead Bay to the east. Coney Island is famous for its beachfront amusement parks, exciting boardwalk, and vibrant atmosphere.
Attractions
Coney Island is a beloved summer destination, drawing visitors from all over with its iconic attractions. The beach itself is a major attraction, offering a place to swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy the rejuvenating ocean breeze. The Coney Island Boardwalk is a hub of activity, lined with food stands, souvenir shops, and amusement park rides.
Luna Park, one of the main amusement parks in Coney Island, is known for its thrilling rides, including the iconic Cyclone roller coaster. The New York Aquarium showcases a wide range of marine life, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with sharks, penguins, and more. The annual Mermaid Parade, a fun and colorful procession of costumed participants, is a highlight for both locals and tourists alike.
Transportation
Coney Island is easily accessible by public transportation. The D, F, N, and Q subway lines all have stations in the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of New York City. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the neighborhood. Once in Coney Island, walking is the best way to get around and soak up the lively atmosphere. The boardwalk stretches for nearly 3 miles, connecting the various attractions and providing scenic views of the ocean.
Hart Island
Geography
Hart Island is a small island located in Long Island Sound, just east of City Island in the Bronx. The island spans approximately 101 acres and has a unique and somber purpose – it serves as a public burial ground for unclaimed bodies and those without financial means for private burials.
Attractions
While Hart Island may not be a traditional tourist destination, it holds a significant historical and cultural importance. The island’s public cemetery, operated by the New York City Department of Correction, is the largest tax-funded cemetery in the world and is the final resting place for over one million individuals.
Due to its sensitive nature, access to Hart Island is limited. However, guided tours are periodically offered, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the island’s history, the burial process, and the efforts to memorialize those interred.
Transportation
Given the unique purpose of Hart Island, public access is restricted. The island is primarily accessible via special ferries operated by the New York City Department of Correction, which are primarily used for transporting bodies to the cemetery. Therefore, visiting Hart Island requires special permission and coordination with the relevant authorities.
Ellis Island
Geography
Ellis Island is a small island located in Upper New York Bay, just off the coast of Jersey City, New Jersey. It is situated approximately 2.5 miles southwest of Manhattan Island. The island spans approximately 27.5 acres and holds great historical significance as the gateway for millions of immigrants entering the United States.
Attractions
Ellis Island is synonymous with the American immigrant experience and offers visitors a chance to explore this rich history. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration tells the stories of the millions who passed through the island’s immigration station between 1892 and 1954. Visitors can embark on a journey of discovery through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and personal narratives.
The island also features beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, providing a tranquil retreat from the city. The Ellis Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, making the journey to the island a scenic experience in itself.
Transportation
To reach Ellis Island, visitors can take a ferry from either Battery Park in Lower Manhattan or Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry service operates regularly and provides an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the surrounding area. Once on Ellis Island, visitors can explore the museum and grounds at their own pace, walking in the footsteps of the millions who sought a new life in America.
Randall’s Island
Geography
Randall’s Island is a small island located in the East River, between the boroughs of Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. The island spans approximately 273 acres and is connected to the rest of Manhattan by the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge. It is home to a variety of recreational facilities and natural spaces.
Attractions
Randall’s Island is a haven for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. The island is home to several sports fields, including baseball, soccer, and tennis courts, making it a popular destination for both amateur and professional athletes. The Randall’s Island Park Alliance maintains and enhances the island’s green spaces, ensuring that visitors have access to beautiful parks, gardens, and waterfront promenades.
One of the highlights of Randall’s Island is its annual music festivals. The island hosts events like the Governor’s Ball Music Festival and Panorama Music Festival, drawing thousands of music lovers from around the world. These festivals showcase a diverse lineup of artists and offer a unique outdoor concert experience.
Transportation
Accessing Randall’s Island is relatively straightforward. Visitors can reach the island by car, bike, or foot via the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge. There is limited parking available on the island, so utilizing public transportation is recommended. Several bus routes connect to Randall’s Island, including the M35 and BX15. Additionally, the 103rd Street Footbridge provides pedestrian access from Manhattan to the island.