Discover the Tranquility of South Shore Nature Center
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at South Shore Nature Center, a tranquil nature preserve in East Islip, New York.
Nestled in East Islip, New York, the South Shore Nature Center is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This nature preserve offers a serene escape from urban life, inviting visitors to explore diverse habitats and observe a plethora of wildlife. With trails winding through lush landscapes, educational programs, and breathtaking views, it's a perfect destination for tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.
A brief summary to South Shore Nature Center
- 130 Bayview Ave, East Islip, New York, 11730, US
- +1631-581-6908
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Check the schedule for educational programs and guided walks during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and dress in layers for changing weather.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the preserve.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving, head to the South Shore Nature Center located at 130 Bayview Ave, East Islip, NY 11730. From Fire Island, take the ferry back to Sayville. Once you arrive, follow the signs to Sunrise Highway (NY-27) and head west. Merge onto NY-27 W and continue for approximately 10 miles. Take the exit for NY-111 N toward Hauppauge and merge onto NY-111 N. Continue for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Bayview Avenue. The South Shore Nature Center will be on your right. Be mindful of parking regulations in the area.
-
Public Transportation
To reach South Shore Nature Center via public transportation, first take the ferry from Fire Island to Sayville. From the Sayville ferry terminal, walk to the Sayville train station and board a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train heading towards Penn Station. Get off at the Islip station. From Islip, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the South Shore Nature Center at 130 Bayview Ave, East Islip, NY 11730. Be prepared for a taxi fare of approximately $10-$15.
Discover more about South Shore Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Westbrook 1886
3.2 km
Discover the historical charm of Westbrook 1886 in Great River, NY, where the past comes alive through stunning architecture and rich narratives.
Byron Lake Park
5.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational charm of Byron Lake Park, a serene escape in Oakdale, NY, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Bourne Mansion
6.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Bourne Mansion, a premier wedding venue in Oakdale, New York, where timeless elegance meets exceptional service.
Discover Long Island
11.0 km
Explore the wonders of Long Island with Discover Long Island, your ultimate tourist information center for local attractions and adventures.
Nathaniel Conklin House
11.1 km
Discover the Nathaniel Conklin House, a historical landmark in Babylon, NY, rich in heritage and architectural beauty, perfect for history lovers.
Islip Grange Park
11.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Islip Grange Park in Sayville, NY – a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and historic charm.
PadLOCKED INc- Escape Room
11.4 km
Discover thrilling escape rooms at PadLOCKED INc in Ronkonkoma, NY, where adventure and teamwork collide in an unforgettable experience.
Carrington House
11.5 km
Discover the charm and mystery of Carrington House, a historical landmark in Sayville, NY, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Central Long Island Marker
14.0 km
Explore the Central Long Island Marker, a historical landmark in Dix Hills that showcases the rich heritage of New York’s captivating past.
Blydenburgh-Weld House
14.3 km
Explore the historical charm and natural beauty of Blydenburgh-Weld House in Smithtown, NY, a serene park perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
John and Alice Coltrane Home
14.3 km
Explore the John and Alice Coltrane Home in Dix Hills, a historical site celebrating the lives and music of two jazz legends.
Smithtown Historical Society
15.5 km
Explore the Smithtown Historical Society and uncover the captivating stories that shaped this charming New York community.
Nissequogue River State Park
20.3 km
Explore Nissequogue River State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts in Kings Park, NY, where nature, history, and adventure come together.
Walt Whitman Birthplace Association
21.5 km
Discover the rich literary heritage at the Walt Whitman Birthplace, a historical museum celebrating America's iconic poet.
Big Chief LewisBuilding
24.4 km
Explore the essence of Massapequa at the Big Chief Lewis Building, a landmark that reflects the local community's rich heritage and spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Heckscher State Park
2.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Heckscher State Park, a serene escape on Long Island featuring trails, beaches, and diverse wildlife.
Bayard Cutting Arboretum
3.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bayard Cutting Arboretum, a lush state park in New York featuring stunning gardens, scenic trails, and rich history.
Oakdale Yacht
3.9 km
Experience the best of boating culture at Oakdale Yacht Club, where adventure meets community on the beautiful New York shores.
Russell Carroll Waterfalls
4.3 km
Experience tranquility and natural beauty at Russell Carroll Waterfalls, a hidden park gem in Great River, NY, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
5.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and abundant wildlife of Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale, New York, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and families.
Sagtikos Manor
7.2 km
Discover the historical charm and natural beauty of Sagtikos Manor, a must-visit attraction in Bay Shore, New York.
Long Island Maritime Museum
8.2 km
Discover Long Island's maritime legacy at the Long Island Maritime Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, historic boats, and beautiful waterfront views.
Fire Island National Seashore
8.5 km
Explore Fire Island National Seashore, a coastal gem in New York offering pristine beaches, unique ecosystems, and unforgettable natural beauty.
Fair Harbor beach
9.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fair Harbor Beach, a tranquil escape on Fire Island, perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and family fun.
Sunken Forest
9.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sunken Forest in Fire Island, NY, where nature trails and lush woodlands await every nature enthusiast.
Fire Island Lighthouse
9.8 km
Discover the Fire Island Lighthouse, a historic treasure offering breathtaking views and rich maritime history on the beautiful shores of Fire Island.
Captree State Park
10.0 km
Explore the beauty of Captree State Park in Bay Shore, New York, a perfect destination for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Sailors Haven
10.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sailors Haven, a tranquil beach retreat on Fire Island, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Sailors Haven Visitor Center
10.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Fire Island at Sailors Haven Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure and exploration.
Robert Moses State Park Field 5
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beaches and scenic dunes at Robert Moses State Park Field 5, a perfect getaway on Long Island's southern shore.
Essential places to dine
Bayside Clam & Grill
1.2 km
Experience fresh seafood and grill delights at Bayside Clam & Grill with breathtaking waterfront views.
Tellers: An American Chophouse
2.1 km
Discover exquisite steaks and seafood at Tellers: An American Chophouse in Islip - where culinary artistry meets upscale dining.
Da Noi Italian Restaurant
2.4 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Da Noi Restaurant in Islip - where fine dining meets heartfelt hospitality.
George Martin's Strip Steak
3.2 km
Experience the finest steakhouse dining at George Martin's Strip Steak, where culinary artistry meets vibrant atmosphere in Great River, NY.
The Snapper Inn
3.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Snapper Inn in Oakdale, NY - where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Lakehouse
4.0 km
Discover Lakehouse: A premier New American restaurant in Bay Shore offering exquisite dishes and stunning waterfront views.
Whalers
4.1 km
Discover Whalers in Bay Shore: A premier New American dining destination offering fresh coastal flavors and modern cuisine.
View
4.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and stunning views at View, Oakdale's premier seafood restaurant offering an unforgettable dining experience.
Tullulah's
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Tullulah's in Bay Shore—where American flavors meet exquisite tapas in a cozy setting.
Tango Argentinian Steakhouse
8.0 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Tango Argentinian Steakhouse in Central Islip - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
The Shed Restaurant - West Sayville NY
8.6 km
Discover The Shed Restaurant: A Culinary Delight in West Sayville Offering Creative American Dishes and Inviting Atmosphere.
Pizza Shack of Kismet
9.0 km
Experience the best New York-style pizza at Pizza Shack of Kismet on Fire Island - where delicious food meets stunning waterfront views.
Fire Island Beach House
9.0 km
Experience coastal bliss at Fire Island Beach House - where relaxation meets vibrant beach life in Ocean Bay Park.
The Cull House
10.2 km
Discover culinary delights at The Cull House in Sayville—where local flavors meet exceptional service in a cozy atmosphere.
Steve's Piccola Bussola III
10.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Steve's Piccola Bussola III in Hauppauge - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
On a Whim Gift Store
1.4 km
Explore the charm of On a Whim Gift Store in East Islip, your go-to destination for unique gifts and local artisan treasures.
Willy Nilly Trading Company
4.9 km
Explore Willy Nilly Trading Company in Bay Shore for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite home goods that capture the essence of local creativity.
A Summer Place
8.2 km
Explore A Summer Place, a boutique in Ocean Beach offering an eclectic mix of fashion and local artistry that captures the essence of coastal style.
FiveEightThree
8.2 km
Explore FiveEightThree in Ocean Beach for trendy clothing and accessories that capture the essence of beach fashion and local style.
Bambootique
8.2 km
Discover the charm of Bambootique in Ocean Beach, NY – a boutique that offers stylish clothing and unique accessories reflecting beach life.
The Pantry
8.2 km
Explore The Pantry in Ocean Beach for fresh, local groceries and a friendly shopping experience by the shore.
Flair House
8.2 km
Experience the artistic flair of Ocean Beach at Flair House, a boutique offering unique local crafts and fashion in a charming setting.
Hanalei and Kula's
8.2 km
Explore the unique charm of Hanalei and Kula's Gift Shop in Ocean Beach, where every treasure tells a story and every visit is a delightful experience.
Fire Island Liquor Store
8.2 km
Experience the vibrant selection of wines and spirits at Fire Island Liquor Store, the perfect stop for beachgoers in Ocean Beach, NY.
THE GALLERY Ocean Beach General Store
8.2 km
Explore the eclectic offerings of THE GALLERY Ocean Beach General Store, where unique gifts and local charm meet in a delightful shopping experience.
Kline's
8.2 km
Explore Kline's in Ocean Beach for unique beach-themed gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of coastal living.
Scoops
8.2 km
Experience the ultimate ice cream paradise at Scoops in Ocean Beach, where every scoop is a delightful treat to savor.
Ice Castle
8.2 km
Experience the joy of delicious ice cream at the Ice Castle in Ocean Beach, NY, where every scoop is a sweet treat waiting for you.
Salty Stitch Beach Wear
8.2 km
Explore Salty Stitch Beach Wear in Ocean Beach, NY for stylish swimwear and beach accessories, perfect for creating unforgettable summer memories.
RACHEL’S Restaurant & Bakery
8.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and freshly baked goods at Rachel's Restaurant & Bakery in Ocean Beach, NY.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Maguire's Bayfront Restaurant
8.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Maguire's Bayfront Restaurant, where breathtaking views meet delicious seafood and grill favorites.
Albatross
8.2 km
Discover the flavorful fusion of fresh seafood and classic American cuisine at Albatross in Ocean Beach, NY, with stunning bay views.
Island Mermaid
8.2 km
Experience the flavors of the coast at Island Mermaid, a vibrant bar and restaurant in Ocean Beach offering seafood delights and a lively atmosphere.
Matthew's Seafood House
8.2 km
Discover Matthew's Seafood House, where fresh seafood meets a vibrant atmosphere in Ocean Beach, NY, perfect for dining or dancing.
Hideaway Restaurant
8.2 km
Discover the delightful flavors of American cuisine and exceptional wines at Hideaway Restaurant in Ocean Beach, NY.
Bay Walk Cafe Ltd
8.2 km
Experience the charm of seaside dining at Bay Walk Cafe, where delicious flavors meet stunning waterfront views in Ocean Beach.
Taco Beach
8.2 km
Discover Taco Beach, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in Ocean Beach, NY, serving authentic cuisine with a delightful seaside ambiance.
Housers Bar
8.2 km
Experience the vibrant beach atmosphere at Housers Bar in Ocean Beach, NY, where great drinks and stunning views meet.
Sandbar Fire Island
8.2 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Sandbar Fire Island, a must-visit bar for cocktails, live music, and unforgettable memories in Ocean Beach.
CJ's
8.2 km
Experience the best of Ocean Beach dining at CJ's, home of the famous Rocket Fuel cocktail and delicious grilled delights.
Beacheria
8.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Beacheria, a charming restaurant in Ocean Beach, NY, where every meal is a delightful culinary journey.
Castaway Bar & Grill
8.3 km
A coastal haven for food lovers, Castaway Bar & Grill serves up traditional American fare in a vibrant beachside setting.
Le Dock
8.6 km
Savor the finest seafood at Le Dock, a waterfront restaurant in Bay Shore, NY, offering a delightful dining experience with stunning views.
The Shack
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant dining scene at The Shack in Bay Shore, where local flavors and live music create unforgettable moments.
Flynn's Fire Island
8.7 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Flynn's Fire Island, where delicious cuisine meets stunning marina views in Ocean Bay Park.
