Driving through the North Fork of Long Island, passing farm stands, vineyards and the occasional Christmas tree farm is one of the exciting aspects of a Shelter Island excursion, and you’re not even there yet.
Shelter Island, a small island oasis located between the two forks offers a serene paradise– unlike the famed summer Long Island destination, the Hamptons– but is surprisingly easily to access with two ferry locations. Ferrys run quite frequently provides a short eight minute trip.
The Pridwin is one of only a small handful of stays that the island offers. On the famous Crescent Beach, Pridwin is in the center of all the action, or relaxation.
The hotel was built in the late 1920’s and still maintains most of its classic New England charm.
“We updated the main lobby this year but try to keep most original aspects still intact,” said Alexandra of Pridwin. Some original qualities include no elevator, which may seem like a drawback at first but is actually one of the endearing aspects of the hotel. Traveling up the short flight of stairs a visitor is brought back to the 20’s, passing vintage bathing suits framed on the walls.
Guest rooms range in size. “Depending on how many people are staying with us,” said Alexandra. “We have a few options.” More like plenty, from ocean view rooms that fit up to three people- offering quite the scenic views of Pridwin’s private beach- to numerous private cottage options.
The seasonal hotel is situated on almost 10 acres and offers quite the taste of life here on the secluded Shelter Island.
The Pridwin grounds contain everything that a guest could want for a relaxing getaway including a pool with bay views and private beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas awaiting guest’s arrival. Kayaks and sunfish are available for rent at one of the hotel’s two docks– the other dock is available for guests who forgo the ferry and prefer to pull up on their own boat.
For those looking to hit around, The Moussa Drame Tennis Club can be found on Pridwin’s grounds and a golf course, just a short ride up the road.
Of course, bicycles are available for those seeking an adventure outside the hotel grounds. During the day, guests can opt to take Pridwin’s free bicycle rentals for a spin through the island where possibilities are endless. Pass Crescent Beach and head to the hip new Sunset Beach restaurant. Stay for a drink or lunch to try one of the fabulous French plates they offer or travel down New York Avenue a small winding road, to discover other delicious food choices. Also in the quaint town, unique boutiques for those seeking a little shopping.
One-third of the nearly 8,000 acres of the island is owned by The Nature Conservancy. Mashomack Preserve is on everyone’s checklist. The beautiful preserve boasts a trail for everyone with four trails, ranging from 1.5 miles to over 10 miles as well as a barrier-free Braille trail for visually impaired.
As the sun goes down and the music changes from Bob Marley to Frank Sinatra, the Pridwin lights up and guests flock to the spacious dining room overlooking the bay or the outdoor patio for a closer seat. Most notable on this dinner menu is the fact that it includes fresh seafood caught by the Pridwin’s owner, Richard Petry. After dinner guests enjoy a range of cocktails at the bar lounge, you too will be singing a Sinatra tune, “It’s the good life.”
