ELLE Escapes: Shelter Island

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If you’re hoping to travel locally for a quick summer getaway, I’d strongly recommend Shelter Island. Located 90 miles east of New York City between the North and South Forks of Long Island, the town originally known as Manhansack-aha-quash-awamock (translation: “an island sheltered by islands”) specializes in laidback luxury, so it’s no surprise that everyone from Christie Brinkley to Kendall Jenner have paid a visit. Take the LIRR north to Greenport, hop a ferry, and soon you’ll be surrounded by water and feel instantly at ease. Whether you enjoy biking, shopping, or just laying out at the beach with a good book, there’s something for everyone here.

What to See

Crescent Beach

Accessible via ferry and named for its crescent shape, this beach is a popular option, thanks in large part to parking spaces, bathrooms, lifeguards, a food truck, and unbeatable views of Greenport. Get your camera ready for sunset, too.

Marika’s

Shelter Island and Marika’s go hand-in-hand, along with owner Marika Kassik’s penchant for vintage homewares and real estate. The Sotheby’s agent has furnished and cleaned out homes on the island for over 30 years: just look at her hauls on Instagram.

Dan’s Bike Rental

Take it from a skeptic: cycling is one of the best ways to see Shelter Island. If you don’t have a bike, text or call Dan’s Bike Rentals and get one delivered anywhere between Mattituck and Orient Point on the North Fork, including the LIRR station and Orient Point Ferry.

Terry Bralette

Terry Henley Short

Flatform Universal Sandals

Where to Eat

Léon 1909

No matter what you order, you can’t go wrong at Léon 1909. The restaurant offers seaside French-Italian food made with local ingredients, ranging from the expected (the burger and grilled pork chop) to the unexpectedly delicious (don’t miss the melon and french bean appetizer). And, even though it costs $3 extra, the housemade bread and cultured butter is well worth it—trust me.

The Terrace

Whether you’re staying at The Pridwin or just passing through, its water-view restaurant and bar The Terrace, overlooking Crescent Beach, is a great option. The menu features classic Long Island fare like char-grilled Atlantic oysters and crab cakes along with a long list of fun summer cocktails.

Stars Café

Locals love the family-owned Stars Café for its freshly baked goods, coffee, breakfast burritos, burgers, and juice and smoothie bar...so basically everything you could ever want.

The Eyelet Ellie Nap Dress

Charlotte Bold Hoops

X Slide in Nude

Where to Drink

Sunset Beach

Come for the drinks, stay for the sunset and celeb clientele at this André Balazs-owned boutique hotel across the street from Crescent Beach. It draws a fashion crowd not only for the picturesque location but also its pop-ups with the likes of Marni.

The Flying Goat

Golfers, take note: This no-frills bar and restaurant at the historic Shelter Island Country Club, a.k.a. “Goat Hill,” has cold drinks and a vantage point that’s one of the highest on the island.

White Oak Wine Garden

In the mood for wine? Look no further than White Oak Wine Garden. The tasting room serves rosés and boutique bottles by local winemakers in an outdoor garden with live music.

Shoreditch Smocked Open Side Top in Petunia

Mirth Pant in White

Arizona Soft Sandals

Where to Stay

The Pridwin

The Pridwin is like adult summer camp in the best way possible. Think: campfires, watersports, pickleball, guided hikes, sunset cocktails—the list goes on. Originally built in 1927, the hotel recently underwent a renovation by Cape Resorts and The Petry family that’s equal parts cozy and modern, with luxury amenities like a full-service spa.

The Rams Head Inn

Situated on the top of a hill across 4.5 acres of land, The Rams Head Inn boasts its own private beach with surprisingly comfortable day beds, 17 rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and an event space that’s ideal for weddings.

The Chequit

Also recently renovated, The Chequit, which dates back to the 19th century, is a hotel and restaurant in the center of town with country chic rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a pantry stocked with snacks.

Side-Slit Tennis Dress

The Court Shoe

Back in Black Set

Beauty Picks

Moisturizing Gel Cream SPF 30

In terms of sunscreens, it doesn’t get much better than this lightweight formula that glides on smoothly without feeling greasy or leaving behind a white cast. Apply it liberally to your face each morning, then reapply every two hours.

Wave Spray

Embrace salty beach hair with this cult-favorite wave spray—it’ll help you achieve that effortlessly undone texture and replace the smell of the ocean with fresh florals.

Lip Butter Balm

Summer is the perfect time to be makeup-free, but if you want a touch of natural-looking color, try a swipe of this moisturizing vegan balm.

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