Great River, NY

Tucked along Long Island's South Shore in the Town of Islip, Great River is a quiet, picturesque waterfront community with a distinct historic charm. Originally developed with grand Gilded Age estates along the Connetquot River, the hamlet has kept its peaceful, tucked-away feel while being home to around 2,000 residents. Daily life here is relaxed and low-key, centered around quiet residential streets, a local deli, the post office, and easy access to the Great South Bay.

ATTRDanTD / CC BY-SA 3.0

Outdoor recreation is one of the area's biggest highlights for anyone thinking of moving here. The neighborhood is surrounded by expansive parkland, from the waterfront trails and beaches at Heckscher State Park to the historic grounds of the Bayard Cutting Arboretum and the golf course and marina at Timber Point. Students attend the East Islip School District, and commuters can catch the train directly from the local Great River station, making it an appealing coastal retreat with plenty of open space.