Mastic, New York

Mastic
A stunning sunset over the waters of Mastic, New York, paints the sky in warm golden hues while casting a shimmering reflection across the bay. The calm shoreline and silhouetted trees in the distance highlight the hamlet’s natural beauty and tranquil South Shore setting, making it a perfect reminder of Mastic’s connection to Long Island’s coastal charm. File photo: Simply Inspired Studio1, licensed.

Mastic, located on the South Shore of Suffolk County, is a hamlet within the Town of Brookhaven. Known for its affordability, waterfront access, and proximity to the William Floyd Estate, Mastic is a diverse residential community with a rich history and convenient location near both the Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

History and Community

Mastic’s history dates back to colonial times, with the area once part of large estates owned by prominent families, including the Floyd family, whose William Floyd Estate remains a preserved landmark within the Fire Island National Seashore. Over the years, Mastic developed from a rural farming area into a suburban community, especially following the mid-20th-century housing boom.

Today, Mastic is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. Its neighborhoods are characterized by modest single-family homes, small businesses, and easy access to parks and nature preserves.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Mastic is known for its affordability compared to other South Shore communities, making it an attractive place for first-time homeowners. The hamlet offers local shopping, casual dining, and quick access to larger commercial areas in nearby Shirley, Patchogue, and Mastic Beach.

Community pride is strong, with local schools, youth sports programs, and neighborhood associations playing a major role in daily life.

Parks and Recreation

Outdoor recreation is central to life in Mastic:

  • William Floyd Estate – A preserved 18th-century home and property, part of the Fire Island National Seashore, offering tours, trails, and historical interpretation.
  • Smith Point County Park – Just minutes away, this park features campgrounds, a large ocean beach, and fishing areas.
  • Forge River – A tidal river that provides boating, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.
  • Nearby Beaches – Residents have quick access to both the Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean at Smith Point Beach.

Transportation

  • Major Roads: Montauk Highway (Route 27A) runs through Mastic, while the Sunrise Highway (Route 27) provides faster east-west access across Long Island.
  • Rail: The nearest Long Island Rail Road station is in Mastic–Shirley, with service to Penn Station and other points west.
  • Proximity: About 70 miles from Manhattan, with access via Sunrise Highway or Long Island Expressway.

Visitor’s Snapshot: Mastic, NY

FeatureDetails
LocationSouth Shore, Suffolk County, Long Island
PopulationApprox. 15,000
Notable LandmarkWilliam Floyd Estate
Nearby ParksSmith Point County Park, Forge River
TransportationMastic–Shirley LIRR Station, Sunrise Hwy (27), Montauk Hwy (27A)
Local VibeAffordable, suburban, family-oriented
Best Known ForHistorical landmarks, bayfront access, nearby beaches

Mastic may not have the high-profile reputation of some Long Island villages, but it offers something equally valuable: a welcoming, affordable community surrounded by natural beauty and historic significance. With easy access to parks, rivers, and beaches, it provides residents and visitors alike with the best of South Shore living.