Sands Point New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sands Point, New York.
1. Sands Point Preserve
HISTORIC GOLD COAST MANOR
Sands Point Preserve is a remarkable 216-acre site that showcases stately mansions and formal gardens on the former Guggenheim Estate. The grounds invite visitors to stroll along manicured walking paths, explore woodlands, and relax by the Long Island Sound shoreline. Events, festivals, and historic tours bring the area's Gilded Age legacy to life year-round.
2. Hempstead House
GRAND GUGGENHEIM ESTATE
Hempstead House, one of the magnificent mansions at Sands Point Preserve, is renowned for its opulent architecture and exquisitely restored interiors. Guests can enjoy guided tours detailing the building's history and its role in the social scene of the Gold Coast era. Special events and cultural programs frequently take place in this elegant castle-like setting.
3. Sands Point Golf Club
PRESTIGIOUS PRIVATE LINKS
The Sands Point Golf Club offers a pristine 18-hole course that reflects the exclusivity and natural beauty of the Gold Coast. Designed for members and their guests, the club features rolling fairways, manicured greens, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Besides golf, members enjoy high-end amenities in a gracious clubhouse.
4. Sands Point Lighthouse
HISTORIC GUIDING BEACON
The Sands Point Lighthouse, standing since 1809, is a cherished architectural landmark along the Long Island Sound. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, visitors can view its stately exterior and appreciate its nautical heritage on guided shoreline walks from Sands Point Preserve. The structure represents a vital piece of the region's maritime history.
5. Sands Point Park
COASTAL RECREATION OASIS
Sands Point Park offers expansive green spaces perfect for family picnics, outdoor gatherings, and scenic relaxation by the Sound. The park features shaded walking trails and access to the shoreline, where visitors can spot wildlife and enjoy peaceful views. It is a tranquil retreat in the heart of the village.
6. Port Washington Water Taxi
BOATING & SIGHTSEEING CRUISES
The Port Washington Water Taxi provides enjoyable rides across Manhasset Bay, connecting Sands Point with the vibrant Port Washington waterfront. This convenient water taxi is ideal for sightseeing, sunset cruises, and special events on the water. Passengers are treated to striking coastal views and easy access to neighboring attractions.
7. Manorhaven Beach Park
WATERFRONT FAMILY FUN
Manorhaven Beach Park features sandy beaches, a marina, a swimming pool, and numerous recreational facilities along the Long Island Sound. Families can relax on the beach, launch kayaks, or play on the park's playground and athletic courts. It is a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking fun in the sun near Sands Point.
8. Nassau County Museum of Art
FINE ART & LANDSCAPES
The Nassau County Museum of Art is set within a grand mansion on 145 acres of gardens, trails, and sculpture parks. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historic art inside, then stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds. The museum is a cultural anchor just a short drive from Sands Point.
9. Garvies Point Museum and Preserve
ARCHAEOLOGY & NATURE TRAILS
Garvies Point Museum and Preserve combines educational exhibits on Native American archaeology and local geology with over 62 acres of natural woodlands. Trails wind through forests and along the shoreline, making it a popular spot for family-friendly hikes and nature exploration. The museum offers engaging programs and hands-on activities throughout the year.
10. Kostal Paddle
KAYAKING & PADDLEBOARDING
Kostal Paddle provides kayak and paddleboard rentals on Manhasset Bay, offering a fun way to enjoy the water near Sands Point. Ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, the company offers lessons, guided tours, and eco-adventures. It's a perfect choice for active visitors looking to experience the bay's natural beauty up close.
11. Shopping
BOUTIQUE SHOPS & LOCAL FINDS
Shopping in the Port Washington area near Sands Point offers a blend of charming boutiques and well-known retailers. Main Street features unique shops such as Dolphin Bookshop, Impulse Boutique, and Wright Music, making the area a delightful destination for gifts, fashion, and specialty goods. Shoppers can explore a walkable downtown filled with local treasures and friendly service.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS & COASTAL EATS
Dining in Port Washington near Sands Point boasts a variety of acclaimed restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Visitors can enjoy seafood with a view at Louie's Grill & Liquors, classic Italian cuisine at DiMaggio's Trattoria, or global flavors at Ayhan's Mediterranean Marketplace. Diverse menus and waterfront ambiance make the area a top culinary stop.
13. Hiking
SCENIC TRAILS & NATURE WALKS
Hiking opportunities in Sands Point include the wooded trails and shoreline paths of Sands Point Preserve, with additional scenic options at Garvies Point Preserve in nearby Glen Cove. Both locations offer peaceful routes through forests and along the Sound, perfect for observing local wildlife and enjoying fresh air. These trails cater to all skill levels and provide a natural escape from urban bustle.
14. Fishing
BAY & SOUND ANGLING
Fishing in Sands Point is popular along the Long Island Sound shoreline and at local parks like Manorhaven Beach Park. Anglers can expect to catch striped bass, bluefish, and flounder while enjoying serene water views. Charter fishing and public access spots abound, making it easy for both novice and seasoned fishers to cast a line near Sands Point.
15. Camping
NATURE CAMPING & OVERNIGHTS
Camping options in Sands Point include special overnight programs and nature camps hosted at Sands Point Preserve, where participants can sleep under the stars and enjoy educational activities on the historic estate. Additional camping experiences are available at nearby Nassau County parks, offering tent sites and group camping for all ages. These opportunities provide a rare chance to immerse oneself in the natural setting of Long Island's North Shore.