Islip Terrace(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a relaxing beach getaway in Islip Terrace, the best area to stay is along the Long Island Sound shoreline, where properties like The Shoreham Hotel offer direct access to private sandy beaches and panoramic ocean views. This boutique hotel blends mid-century modern design with coastal charm, featuring a rooftop lounge perfect for sunset views.

Alternatively, Hampton Inn & Suites Islip provides excellent value with easy access to Long Island Rail Road and nearby attractions such as Shoreham Park and Baiting Hollow Reservoir. For a quieter, more intimate experience, consider Cedar Crest Inn, known for its lush gardens and locally inspired breakfasts. These accommodations not only ensure comfort but also immerse guests in the serene, seaside lifestyle that defines Islip Terrace.

Visitors to Islip Terrace can enjoy the annual Long Island Coastal Festival, a summer celebration featuring seafood markets, artisan crafts, and live music that highlights the region’s fishing heritage. The event brings together local families and vendors in a vibrant display of maritime culture.

At the Islip Historical Society Museum, guests can explore exhibits on the town’s evolution from a 19th-century fishing village to a modern suburban community. Nature lovers should visit Shoreham Park, a scenic waterfront spot ideal for sunsets, picnics, and birdwatching—especially during weekend artisan markets that showcase local talent.

For an authentic taste of island life, join a guided fishing trip with Long Island Seafood Cooperative, where you’ll learn traditional netting techniques and enjoy freshly caught lobster and scallops—a true sensory immersion in the region’s coastal identity.

For family-friendly accommodations in Islip Terrace, Hampton Inn & Suites Islip stands out with spacious family rooms, a free breakfast buffet, and a seasonal outdoor pool—perfect for kids. Its proximity to the Long Island Rail Road station makes day trips to New York City or nearby attractions effortless.

Another top choice is Cedar Crest Inn, offering secluded cottage-style lodging ideal for families seeking privacy. The inn hosts regular children’s programs, including shell art workshops and marine biology talks, blending fun with learning. Both hotels are within minutes of Brookhaven State Park, where families can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and guided nature walks—making them ideal for safe, enriching getaways.

The waterfront scenery in Islip Terrace is defined by the clear waters and expansive sandy shores of Long Island Sound, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset when golden light reflects across the rippling surface. Shoreham Park features a one-mile public beach with shaded cabanas, walking paths, and scenic overlooks—perfect for watching seabirds soar and sailboats glide by.

Private docks line the coast, some available for overnight fishing charters or small boat rentals, offering tranquil evening excursions. Nearby Island Beach State Park adds a wilder dimension with tidal marshes, dunes, and red mangroves—ideal for birdwatching and nature photography. Whether strolling, surfing, or simply unwinding, the area delivers a serene blend of natural beauty and coastal tranquility, making it a prime escape from urban life.

Near Islip Terrace, Brookhaven State Park is a top destination for hiking and nature lovers, offering over 10 kilometers of well-maintained trails through forests, streams, and open meadows—suitable for all fitness levels. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall paints the hills in fiery reds, making it a favorite among photographers.

Shoreham Park also features coastal walking paths and boardwalks leading into wetlands, where visitors often spot herons, raccoons, and squirrels—ideal for family nature walks. For a more immersive experience, head to Hempstead Harbor Nature Preserve, a protected tidal marsh with observation towers and interpretive signage, offering insights into Long Island’s coastal ecology.

All parks provide free admission, ample rest areas, and clean facilities, making them perfect gateways to experiencing the region’s rich biodiversity.

The culinary highlight of Islip Terrace centers on fresh Long Island seafood, particularly lobster, scallops, and blue crab harvested daily. Try the signature dish at The Shoreham Restaurant: sea urchin cream pasta, served with a crisp local white wine for a rich yet delicate flavor profile.

Local favorites include street-side seafood stands like Islip Fish Market, offering freshly grilled clams and fried fish with hand-cut fries—affordable and beloved by residents. Every weekend, Shoreham Park hosts a beachside food market featuring organic farmers, artisan ice cream makers, and specialty coffee roasters, reflecting the town’s slow-food ethos.

Additionally, Cedar Crest Inn serves a farm-to-table breakfast with homemade jams, sourdough bread, and seasonal fruit—all sourced from regional producers—showcasing the area’s commitment to sustainable dining.