Shelter Island Named 1 Of Best Places To Daytrip On LI

WESTHAMPTON, NY — It's what the many who flock to the sunswept North and South Forks every summer know for certain — the beaches are simply sublime.

Now, Thrillist.com has given a shout out to the best beaches on Long Island, and the East End represented in a big way.

Shelter Island got the spotlight for best daytripping, with some suggestions including a walk through the Mashomack Nature Preserve, a glorious day at Crescent Beach, and stops at the Marie Eiffel Market for chocolate croissants or the Black Cat book store; sunset at the Pridwin Hotel was also on the to-do list, according to the post.

Cupsogue Beach County Park was noted for "best for animal spotting." The beach is popular year round for seal-watching, with walks scheduled throughout the year.

Even in the frigid February temps, fun-loving seals have been spotted at Cupsogue.

Resident Laura DeNapoli told Patch that on a mild winter day, "I was so excited to see the seals popping their heads up and down at Cupsogue Beach." She added that the adorable seals were especially entertaining.

"The seals were swimming laps today," she said. "They were floating and popping their heads up and dunking their bodies into the water."

The Thrillist post says, for nature lovers, Hither Hills State Park on Old Montauk Highway in Montauk is a must. "If sleeping out under the stars is your thing, head to the beachside campgrounds outside Montauk Village," right before hitting "The End," in Montauk, where guests can go bird watching at the Napeague Bird Conservation area or explore the Walking Dunes, the post said.

In East Hampton, Main Beach on Ocean Ave. got the nod, with the Thrillist report stating it's the best place for celebrity sightings. "No surprise, the best place to spot a Hollywood star out in the wild is still the Hamptons," the post said, adding that a parking pass is needed. However, even without a beach sticker, East Hampton also offers plenty of chances to catch a glimpse of A listers, including eateries such as Nick & Toni's, Tutto il Giornio, Babette's and 75 Main, the post said, adding, "Grab your biggest hat and darkest sunglasses and live like a one-percenter for a day. Who knows, you might even get mistaken for one yourself."

For the full list of Long Island beaches spotlighted on Thrillist.com, click here.